Topical Encyclopedia In the Christian tradition, believers are often described as "pilgrims and strangers" in this world, reflecting their temporary sojourn on earth and their ultimate citizenship in heaven. This concept is deeply rooted in Scripture, where the faithful are called to live distinct lives, separate from worldly influences and fellowship.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 that wage war against the soul. This identity as temporary residents on earth underscores the call to live in holiness and separation from worldly practices. Hating Worldly Fellowship The call to hate worldly fellowship is not an encouragement to disdain individuals but rather to reject the values and practices that are contrary to God's will. The Apostle John warns, "Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him" (1 John 2:15). This admonition highlights the incompatibility between the love of God and the love of worldly systems. Old Testament Precedents The concept of separation from worldly influences is not new to the New Testament. The Old Testament provides numerous examples of God's people being called to live distinct lives. Abraham, the father of faith, was called to leave his country and kindred to follow God's promise (Genesis 12:1). Similarly, the Israelites were instructed to be a holy nation, set apart from the surrounding pagan cultures (Leviticus 20:26). New Testament Exhortations The New Testament continues this theme, with the Apostle Paul instructing believers, "Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership can righteousness have with wickedness? Or what fellowship does light have with darkness?" (2 Corinthians 6:14). This rhetorical question emphasizes the stark contrast between the life of a believer and the ways of the world. Practical Implications For Christians, being pilgrims and strangers involves a conscious decision to avoid entanglement with worldly affairs that could compromise their faith. This includes rejecting practices, ideologies, and relationships that are contrary to biblical teachings. The call to holiness is a call to live in a manner worthy of the gospel, reflecting the values of the kingdom of God rather than the transient values of the world. Spiritual Warfare The life of a pilgrim and stranger is marked by spiritual warfare, as believers contend with the temptations and pressures of the world. The Apostle Paul reminds the Ephesians to "put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes" (Ephesians 6:11). This metaphor of armor signifies the need for spiritual vigilance and readiness in the face of worldly challenges. Eternal Perspective Ultimately, the identity of believers as pilgrims and strangers is rooted in an eternal perspective. The writer of Hebrews commends those who "acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth" (Hebrews 11:13), looking forward to a heavenly homeland. This forward-looking faith inspires believers to live with a sense of purpose and hope, knowing that their true home is with God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 120:5,6Woe is me, that I sojourn in Mesech, that I dwell in the tents of Kedar! Torrey's Topical Textbook Library On the Difficulties and Duties of the Christian Life. A Treatise of the Fear of God; Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon: The Pilgrim's Progress The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: Christ a Complete Saviour: The Acceptable Sacrifice; The Desire of the Righteous Granted; Memoir of John Bunyan Resources How can I stay focused on Christ? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Beulah Land? | GotQuestions.org Does God oppose religious freedom in the Old Testament? | 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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