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  STRANGERS AND PILGRIMS
  by Watchman Nee
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Summary: A Christian's true identity is that of a stranger and a
pilgrim, having a neutral attitude towards the world and being on a
journey towards their heavenly home.

Topics: "Christian Identity", "Eternal Perspective"
Scripture References: Psalm 119:19, Matthew 6:19-20, John 15:19, Romans 12:2, 2 Corinthians 5:1, Philippians 3:20, Colossians 3:2, Hebrews 11:13, 1 Peter 2:11, Revelation 21:4

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DESCRIPTION
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Watchman Nee explores the concept of being 'strangers and pilgrims' on
earth, emphasizing that true believers are not fully invested in worldly
affairs but are instead sojourners with a higher calling. He illustrates
this through his experience in England during a time of crisis, where he
felt detached from the local emotions and events, recognizing that his
true home lies elsewhere. This perspective encourages Christians to
maintain a neutral stance towards worldly troubles and joys, focusing
instead on their eternal destination.

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CONTENT
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"Having confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth."
Hebrews 11:13

What does it mean to be a stranger and a pilgrim? Let me use an
illustration. During my stay in England, shortly before the Munich
crisis, I noticed people preparing for war by digging trenches.
preparing shelters, and distributing masks for poisonous gas. My
feelings at that time were entirely different from those of the
Englishmen. I watched them prepare for war until the news came that a
pact had been signed.

Many could not sleep that night. They sang and they shouted. But what
was my reaction? I watched unmoved. While they had been busily preparing
for war, I had watched coldly; now when they rejoiced over peace, I
still watched coldly. I was a sojourner. I would soon go away. In their
joy and in their sorrow I was merely an observer. So it was that I
realized what it means to he an alien. My attitude toward England was
neutral. I hoped for her good; I wished her peace; but my interests lay
elsewhere.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/watchman-nee/strangers-and-pilgrims/
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