Topical Encyclopedia In the Christian tradition, the concept of believers as "pilgrims and strangers" is deeply rooted in the understanding that followers of Christ are sojourners on earth, with their true citizenship in heaven. This identity calls for a life of faith and devotion, often requiring the forsaking of worldly attachments for the sake of Christ.Biblical Foundation The notion of being pilgrims and strangers is vividly illustrated in the New Testament. The Apostle Peter addresses believers as "foreigners and exiles" (1 Peter 2:11), urging them to abstain from sinful desires and to live honorably among the Gentiles. This language reflects the transient nature of the Christian life on earth, emphasizing a focus on eternal, rather than temporal, values. Forsaking All for Christ The call to forsake all for Christ is a recurring theme in the teachings of Jesus. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus declares, "In the same way, any one of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be My disciple" (Luke 14:33). This radical call to discipleship underscores the necessity of prioritizing Christ above all earthly possessions and relationships. The Apostle Paul exemplifies this principle in his own life. In his letter to the Philippians, he writes, "But whatever was gain to me I count as loss for the sake of Christ" (Philippians 3:7). Paul’s willingness to forsake his former status and achievements for the surpassing worth of knowing Christ serves as a powerful testament to the transformative nature of true discipleship. Old Testament Precedents The concept of forsaking all for a divine calling is not limited to the New Testament. The patriarch Abraham is a quintessential example of a pilgrim and stranger. In obedience to God's command, he left his homeland and family, journeying to an unknown land with the promise of becoming a great nation (Genesis 12:1-4). Abraham's faith and willingness to forsake all for God's promise set a precedent for future generations of believers. The Heavenly Perspective The Epistle to the Hebrews provides a profound reflection on the pilgrim nature of the saints. It recounts the faith of the patriarchs, stating, "They admitted that they were strangers and exiles on the earth" (Hebrews 11:13). This acknowledgment of their transient status was rooted in their desire for a better, heavenly country, which God had prepared for them. Practical Implications For contemporary believers, embracing the identity of pilgrims and strangers involves a conscious decision to live counter-culturally, often in opposition to societal norms that prioritize material wealth and personal ambition. It requires a steadfast commitment to Christ, even when it demands personal sacrifice or the relinquishment of earthly ties. The call to forsake all for Christ is not merely an abstract ideal but a practical reality that shapes the daily lives of believers. It challenges Christians to evaluate their priorities, invest in eternal treasures, and live with an unwavering hope in the promises of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 19:27Then answered Peter and said to him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed you; what shall we have therefore? Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Pilgrim's Longings Divine Grace. Days of Heaven Upon Earth The Pilgrim Fathers. The Saints' Privilege and Profit; Thoughts Upon Our Call and Election. Paul's Departure and Crown; The Pilgrim Fathers The Letter of the Church of Rome Fifthly, as this Revelation, to the Judgment of Right and Sober ... Resources Who are the Hospitaller Knights? | GotQuestions.orgWhat should be the focus of Christians on Thanksgiving? | GotQuestions.org What is The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Pilgrims and Strangers: Abraham Pilgrims and Strangers: All Saints Are Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They are Actuated by Faith Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They are Exposed to Persecution Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They are not at Home in This World Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They are not Mindful of This World Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They are Strengthened by God Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They: Die in Faith Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They: Forsake all for Christ Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They: Hate Worldly Fellowship Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They: Have a Heavenly Conversation Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They: Have the Example of Christ Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They: Have Their Faces Toward Zion Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They: Invite Others to Go With Them Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They: Keep the Promised in View Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They: Long for Their Pilgrimage to End Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They: Look for a Heavenly City Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They: Look for a Heavenly Country Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They: Pass Their Sojourning in Fear Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They: Pray for Direction Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They: Rejoice in the Statutes of God Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They: Shine As Lights in the World Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They: should Abstain from Fleshly Lusts Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They: should Have Their Treasure in Heaven Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They: should not be Over Anxious About Worldly Things Pilgrims and Strangers: As Saints They: The World is not Worthy of Pilgrims and Strangers: Described Pilgrims and Strangers: God is not Ashamed to be Called Their God Pilgrims and Strangers: Saints are Called to Be Pilgrims and Strangers: Saints Confess Themselves Pilgrims and Strangers: Saints of Old Pilgrims and Strangers: The Apostles Pilgrims and Strangers: Typified: Israel Related Terms |
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