Topical Encyclopedia In the Christian tradition, the concept of believers as "pilgrims and strangers" is deeply rooted in the understanding of life on earth as a temporary journey toward a heavenly homeland. This perspective is drawn from various biblical passages that emphasize the transient nature of earthly existence and the eternal promise awaiting the faithful.The notion of being a pilgrim is vividly illustrated in the Epistle to the Hebrews, where the patriarchs are described as those who "acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth" (Hebrews 11:13). This acknowledgment reflects a profound awareness of their temporary status in this world and a longing for a better, heavenly country. The saints, therefore, live with an expectation and desire for their pilgrimage to conclude in the presence of God. The Apostle Peter also addresses believers as "foreigners and exiles" (1 Peter 2:11), urging them to abstain from sinful desires that wage war against the soul. This exhortation underscores the tension between the present world and the future hope, encouraging Christians to live in a manner worthy of their calling, with their eyes fixed on the eternal inheritance. The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in his letter to the Philippians, where he writes, "But our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ" (Philippians 3:20). This heavenly citizenship is a source of hope and anticipation, motivating believers to persevere through the trials and tribulations of earthly life. In the Old Testament, the Psalms frequently express the longing of the faithful for their ultimate home with God. Psalm 84:5-7 speaks of the blessedness of those whose strength is in the Lord, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage. This imagery captures the essence of the spiritual journey, marked by a deep yearning for communion with God. The life of a pilgrim is characterized by a forward-looking faith, as seen in the example of Abraham, who "was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God" (Hebrews 11:10). This anticipation of a divine city reflects the ultimate goal of the Christian pilgrimage—a place of eternal rest and fellowship with the Creator. The longing for the pilgrimage to end is not merely an escape from the trials of this world but a desire to be united with Christ, as Paul expresses in his letter to the Philippians: "I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better indeed" (Philippians 1:23). This tension between the present life and the future glory is a hallmark of the Christian experience. In Revelation, the culmination of the saints' pilgrimage is depicted in the vision of the New Jerusalem, where God will dwell with His people, and "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes" (Revelation 21:4). This promise of eternal joy and peace is the ultimate fulfillment of the pilgrim's journey, a destination that fuels the hope and perseverance of believers throughout their earthly sojourn. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 55:6And I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove! for then would I fly away, and be at rest. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Corinthians 5:1-8 Library The Pilgrim's Longings The Resemblance Between the Old Testament and the New. The Illusiveness of Life. Of the Last Resurrection. The Saints' Privilege and Profit; Twenty-Seven Articles Respecting the Reformation of the Christian ... Paul's Departure and Crown; Conversion. The Last Farewell in the Presence of the one Hundred and Fifty ... Letter cxxx. (AD 412. ) 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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