Topical Encyclopedia In the Christian tradition, the concept of believers as "pilgrims and strangers" is deeply rooted in the understanding of the Christian life as a journey toward a heavenly destination. This theme is prevalent throughout Scripture, emphasizing the transient nature of earthly life and the eternal promise of a heavenly home.Biblical Foundation The notion of believers as pilgrims and strangers is vividly illustrated in the Epistle to the Hebrews. Hebrews 11:13-16 states, "All these people died in faith, without having received the things they were promised. However, they saw them and welcomed them from afar. And they acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. Those who say such things show that they are seeking a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them." This passage highlights the faith of the patriarchs, who lived as sojourners on earth, looking forward to the fulfillment of God's promises. Their acknowledgment of being strangers and exiles underscores their understanding of life as a temporary passage toward a greater, eternal reality. The Heavenly City The "heavenly city" is a central motif in the Christian hope. It represents the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises and the eternal dwelling place of the saints. Revelation 21:2 describes this city: "I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband." This imagery of the New Jerusalem as a bride beautifully illustrates the intimate and glorious relationship between God and His people. The heavenly city is not merely a place but a profound expression of divine love and eternal communion with God. Living as Pilgrims and Strangers The identity of believers as pilgrims and strangers calls for a life of faith and hope. 1 Peter 2:11 exhorts, "Beloved, I urge you as foreigners and exiles to abstain from the desires of the flesh, which war against your soul." This exhortation reflects the call to live distinctively, resisting worldly temptations and focusing on the spiritual journey. The apostle Paul also speaks to this transient existence in Philippians 3:20 : "But our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ." This verse reinforces the idea that believers' true citizenship is not of this world but in heaven, where they await the return of Christ. Historical and Theological Context Throughout church history, the theme of pilgrimage has been a powerful metaphor for the Christian life. Early Christians often referred to themselves as "sojourners" and "exiles," reflecting their understanding of living in a world that is not their ultimate home. This perspective has been a source of comfort and strength, encouraging believers to persevere in faith despite trials and tribulations. Theologically, the concept of being pilgrims and strangers aligns with the doctrine of sanctification, where believers are progressively conformed to the image of Christ while journeying toward their heavenly inheritance. This journey is marked by faith, hope, and love, as believers seek to live in a manner worthy of their calling. Conclusion The identity of Christians as pilgrims and strangers is a profound reminder of the transient nature of earthly life and the eternal promise of a heavenly city. This perspective shapes the believer's worldview, encouraging a life of faith, holiness, and anticipation of the glorious future that awaits in the presence of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Hebrews 11:10For he looked for a city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Pilgrim's Longings The Faith of Abraham. Heavenly Rest The People of the New Earth The Controversy Ended. November 16 Evening The Controversy Ended Hebrews xi. 13-16 Psalm LXXXVII. The Saints' Privilege and Profit; Resources Is it true that the bodies of some saints are incorruptible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a community church? | GotQuestions.org What was Jesus' message to the church in Ephesus in Revelation? | 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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