Have you ever felt out of place, like you just don’t quite fit in? That’s how the Bible describes believers in this world. As I’ve been studying 1 Peter, I’ve noticed the word stranger popping up everywhere. Peter calls us “strangers in the world” (1 Peter 1:1) and urges us to live “as strangers here in reverent fear” (1 Peter 1:17). He goes on to plead with us, “as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires” (1 Peter 2:11). Clearly, being a stranger isn’t just a side note for Christians—it’s central to who we are.
This theme of being strangers isn’t new; it’s woven throughout Scripture. Abraham was called a stranger when he lived in the promised land by faith (Hebrews 11:9). God even told him that his descendants would live as strangers in a foreign land for 400 years (Genesis 15:13). Later, when the Israelites finally entered Canaan, God reminded them that even this land wasn’t really theirs: “The land is mine and you are but aliens and my tenants” (Leviticus 25:23). Over and over, God’s people were called to live by faith as strangers, recognizing that this world isn’t their final home.
But why does God want us to live as strangers? The writer of Hebrews gives us the answer: those heroes of faith “admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth” because they were “longing for a better country—a heavenly one” (Hebrews 11:13–16). Their hearts were set on eternity, not the temporary comforts of this world. And that’s what God calls us to as well.
Living as a stranger, though, isn’t easy. It creates tension. Think about how strangers in any community stand out—they look different, act differently, and sometimes irritate the locals. In my own country, the Netherlands, this is especially true. Families of foreign workers may need housing or social benefits, which can frustrate those who feel they should come first. In schools, language barriers can create challenges for teachers and students alike. Strangers, by their very nature, disrupt the status quo.
As Christians, we are strangers in this world, and that means we will stand out. We speak a different language—the language of God’s Word. We live by a different set of values, shaped by the light of Christ rather than the darkness of the world. This difference can be attractive to some, but let’s be honest: it can also be incredibly irritating to others.
And here’s where the real challenge comes in. Strangers usually try to fit in. They learn the local language, adopt the customs, and blend into their surroundings. But as followers of Christ, we’re called to do the opposite. We’re not supposed to blend in; we’re supposed to stand out. Peter puts it plainly: “You have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do” (1 Peter 4:3). Now, we live for God’s will, not our own. This makes us even more “strange” to those around us, and as Peter warns, it might even lead to persecution: “They think it strange that you do not plunge with them into the same flood of dissipation, and they heap abuse on you” (1 Peter 4:4).
This difference is becoming more relevant by the day. Our world is moving further from biblical values, especially on issues like marriage, family, honesty, and authority. As this gap widens, the tension between believers and the world around us will only grow. But this isn’t a reason to retreat or compromise. In fact, it’s an opportunity.
Our King has commanded us to live differently for a reason: to influence others. We’re not just called to endure being strangers; we’re called to invite others to join us. Through our words and actions, we can show people the blessings of living under God’s rule. We can demonstrate the peace, joy, and purpose that come from following Christ. And in doing so, we may persuade others to become “strangers” on this earth, just as we are.
So, what does this look like in everyday life? It starts with embracing who we are. Don’t be afraid to stand out. When your values clash with the world’s, stand firm in love and truth. Speak the language of grace, even when others don’t understand. Show compassion to those who oppose you, and let your actions reflect the light of Christ. Remember, our differences are meant to point others to the God we serve.
As strangers, we will face challenges, but we also have a hope that carries us through. We’re not living for this world—we’re living for the next. And that hope is what makes all the tension, misunderstanding, and even persecution worthwhile.
For further insight into living as a stranger in this world, check out “What Does It Mean to Live as a Stranger in the World?”.
FEEL FREE TO COMMENT AND SHARE