In the biblical narrative, the concept of a "temporary dwelling" is often used to illustrate the transient nature of human life on earth and the anticipation of a more permanent, eternal home with God. This theme is prevalent throughout both the Old and New Testaments, serving as a reminder of the impermanence of earthly existence and the hope of eternal life.

The Israelites' experience in the wilderness is a primary example of temporary dwelling. After their exodus from Egypt, they lived in tents for forty years as they journeyed toward the Promised Land. This period of wandering is a powerful symbol of the temporary nature of earthly life. Leviticus 23:42-43 instructs the Israelites to live in booths during the Feast of Tabernacles to commemorate this time: "You are to live in booths for seven days. All the native-born of Israel must live in booths, so that your descendants may know that I had the Israelites live in booths when I brought them out of the land of Egypt. I am the LORD your God."

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul uses the metaphor of a tent to describe the human body, emphasizing its temporary nature. In 2 Corinthians 5:1 , he writes, "Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is dismantled, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands." This passage highlights the contrast between the temporary physical body and the eternal spiritual dwelling promised to believers.

The concept of temporary dwelling also extends to the Christian life, as believers are described as "aliens and strangers" in the world (1 Peter 2:11). This imagery underscores the idea that Christians are merely passing through this world, with their true citizenship in heaven (Philippians 3:20).

Eternal Perspective

An eternal perspective is a mindset that focuses on the everlasting nature of God's kingdom and the believer's future with Him, rather than the fleeting concerns of this world. This perspective is rooted in the teachings of Scripture and is essential for living a life that honors God and aligns with His purposes.

The Bible frequently contrasts the temporal with the eternal, urging believers to prioritize the latter. In 2 Corinthians 4:18 , Paul writes, "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." This verse encourages Christians to look beyond the visible, transient aspects of life and focus on the unseen, eternal realities of God's kingdom.

Jesus Himself taught about the importance of an eternal perspective in the Sermon on the Mount. 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 emphasizes the futility of earthly wealth and the enduring value of heavenly treasures.

An eternal perspective also provides comfort and hope in the face of suffering and trials. Romans 8:18 states, "I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us." This assurance of future glory helps believers endure hardships with patience and faith, knowing that their struggles are temporary compared to the eternal joy that awaits them.

Furthermore, an eternal perspective influences how Christians live their daily lives, guiding their decisions and actions. Colossians 3:2 exhorts believers to "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." By focusing on eternal truths, Christians are empowered to live in a way that reflects their ultimate hope and destiny in Christ.