How can we live as "strangers and exiles" in today's world? Recognizing the Pilgrim Identity Hebrews 11:13: “All these people died in faith without having received the things promised. However, they saw them and welcomed them from afar, and they acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth.” • Scripture presents “strangers and exiles” as a literal status for every redeemed person. • Our citizenship is heavenly, not earthly (Philippians 3:20). • We live here temporarily, looking ahead to “a city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God” (Hebrews 11:10). Keeping Heaven in View • Daily remind yourself of where home truly is—set “your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2). • Store treasure in heaven (Matthew 6:19-21), investing time and resources where moth and rust cannot touch. • Measure decisions by eternal value rather than immediate comfort or popularity. Cultivating Holy Distinction • 1 Peter 2:11-12 urges abstaining “from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul.” • Romans 12:2 calls for non-conformity to worldly patterns through the renewing of the mind. Practical outworking: – Entertainment choices filtered through Philippians 4:8. – Speech seasoned with grace (Colossians 4:6). – Moral boundaries held without apology (Ephesians 5:3-4). Choosing Pilgrim Priorities • Time: devote firstfruits of each day to Scripture (Psalm 1:2). • Money: budget generosity toward gospel work (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Relationships: seek fellowship that spurs holiness (Hebrews 10:24-25). Serving as Ambassadors • 2 Corinthians 5:20—“We are ambassadors for Christ.” • Represent the King by: – Speaking truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). – Displaying good works that glorify the Father (Matthew 5:16). – Pointing others to the hope that lies beyond this world (1 Peter 3:15). Strengthening Pilgrim Community • Acts 2:42-47 illustrates believers sharing life, resources, and worship. • Encourage one another daily to prevent hardened hearts (Hebrews 3:13). • Bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2), modeling the self-sacrificial love of Christ. Nurturing Enduring Hope • Hebrews 11:13 notes the patriarchs “welcomed” the promises from afar—they embraced them as already certain. • Romans 8:18 affirms present sufferings are “not comparable” with coming glory. • Rehearse God’s faithfulness in past deliverances to fuel confidence for future promises (Lamentations 3:21-23). Living the Exile Life Today • Walk with Bible-shaped convictions. • Pursue holiness that highlights the gospel. • Invest in what outlasts this world. • Witness boldly, knowing the true homeland awaits. |
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