Topical Encyclopedia In the Christian faith, believers are often described as "pilgrims" and "strangers" on the earth, emphasizing their temporary residence in this world and their ultimate citizenship in heaven. This concept is deeply rooted in Scripture, where the faithful are encouraged to set their hearts and treasures not on earthly possessions but on heavenly rewards.Biblical Foundation The notion of being pilgrims and strangers is vividly illustrated in Hebrews 11:13-16, where the patriarchs are described as having acknowledged that they were "strangers and exiles on the earth." They were seeking a homeland, a better country, that is, a heavenly one. This passage underscores the transient nature of earthly life and the eternal perspective that believers are called to maintain. Treasure in Heaven Jesus Christ explicitly taught about the importance of storing up treasures in heaven rather than on earth. In Matthew 6:19-21 , He instructs, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." This teaching highlights the impermanence of material wealth and the enduring value of spiritual riches. Living as Pilgrims The Apostle Peter also addresses believers as "strangers" and "pilgrims" in 1 Peter 2:11 , urging them to "abstain from the desires of the flesh, which war against your soul." This exhortation calls Christians to live lives that reflect their heavenly citizenship, avoiding worldly entanglements that can distract from their spiritual journey. Heavenly Citizenship Philippians 3:20 reminds believers that "our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ." This verse reinforces the idea that Christians, while living in the world, belong to a heavenly kingdom. Their values, priorities, and ultimate hopes are anchored in the eternal rather than the temporal. Practical Implications Living as pilgrims and strangers with treasures in heaven involves a reorientation of priorities. It means valuing spiritual growth, relationships, and acts of service over material gain. It calls for a life of faith, trusting in God's provision and promises, and looking forward to the eternal inheritance reserved for the faithful. Conclusion The biblical call for believers to live as pilgrims and strangers with their treasure in heaven is a profound reminder of the transient nature of earthly life and the eternal hope found in Christ. By focusing on heavenly treasures, Christians are encouraged to live lives that reflect their true citizenship and eternal destiny. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 6:19Lay not up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust does corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: Torrey's Topical Textbook Luke 12:33 Colossians 3:1,2 Library Matt. xxii. 1-14. The Chorus of Angels Paul's Departure and Crown; Our Lord's Prayer for his People's Sanctification V. ... The Christian Described Moab is My Washpot The Resemblance Between the Old Testament and the New. Twenty-Seven Articles Respecting the Reformation of the Christian ... Of the Last Resurrection. 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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