What does the Bible say about pilgrims and strangers?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that God’s people live in this world as pilgrims and strangers, belonging ultimately to him and seeking the lasting city and kingdom he provides. Abraham left his homeland at God’s call in faith, and Acts 7:3 recalls this pilgrimage of obedience. David confesses in Psalms 39:12 and 1 Chronicles 29:15 that our earthly life is brief and dependent upon God. Peter addresses believers as exiles scattered among the nations in 1 Peter 1:1, reminding the church that its true identity is shaped by God’s electing grace. Jesus teaches in Luke 14:26-33 that disciples must value him above every earthly attachment and follow him at real cost. Yet Christ also prays that his people, though not of the world, may faithfully serve within it (John 17:16).
Study outline
Curated topical outlines from classic public-domain study works.
Torrey's New Topical Textbook
- Described John 17:16
- Saints are called to be Genesis 12:1; Acts 7:3; Luke 14:26; Luke 14:27; Luke 14:33
- All saints are Psalms 39:12; 1 Peter 1:1
- Saints confess themselves 1 Chronicles 29:15; Psalms 39:12; Psalms 119:19; Hebrews 11:13
- As saints they
- Have the example of Christ Luke 9:58
- Are strengthened by God Deuteronomy 33:25; Psalms 84:6; Psalms 84:7
- Are actuated by faith Hebrews 11:9
- Have their faces toward Zion Jeremiah 50:5
- Keep the promised in view Hebrews 11:13
- Forsake all for Christ Matthew 19:27
- Look for a heavenly country Hebrews 11:16
- Look for a heavenly city Hebrews 11:10
- Pass their sojourning in fear 1 Peter 1:17
- Rejoice in the statutes of God Psalms 119:54
- Pray for direction Psalms 43:3; Jeremiah 50:5
- Have a heavenly conversation Philippians 3:20
- Hate worldly fellowship Psalms 120:5; Psalms 120:6
- Are not mindful of this world Hebrews 11:15
- Are not at home in this world Hebrews 11:9
- Shine as lights in the world Philippians 2:15
- Invite others to go with them Numbers 10:29
- Are exposed to persecution Psalms 120:5-7; John 17:14
- Should abstain from fleshly lusts 1 Peter 2:11
- Should have their treasure in heaven Matthew 6:19; Luke 12:33; Colossians 3:1; Colossians 3:2
- Should not be over anxious about worldly things Matthew 6:25
- Long for their pilgrimage to end Psalms 55:6; 2 Corinthians 5:1-8
- Die in faith Hebrews 11:13
- The world is not worthy of Hebrews 11:38
- God is not ashamed to be called their God Hebrews 11:16
- Typified
- Israel Exodus 6:4; Exodus 12:11
- Exemplified
- Abraham Genesis 23:4; Acts 7:4; Acts 7:5
- Jacob Genesis 47:9
- Saints of old 1 Chronicles 29:15; Hebrews 11:13; Hebrews 11:38
- David Psalms 39:12
- The Apostles Matthew 19:27
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