Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.  Hebrews 12:1-2

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. 2 And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. 4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” 5 And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”  Revelation 21:1-5

A. Life in Between: The Pilgrim’s Journey

1. How we are to travel the Pilgrim’s Journey: Hebrews 12:1-2, Isaiah 45:22, Micah 7:7

– Encouraged by those who have gone before us

– Put away all hindrances that restrict travel

– Stop al besetting sin that restricts travel

– Fix one’s attention on Jesus

2. Defining the Pilgrim’s Journey: Hebrews 12:1-2

a. The journey is one of toil: John 9:4, John 17:4, 1 Cor. 15:58

b. The Journey is one of suffering: Mark 8:31, 1 Peter 2:21-23, Rom. 8:16-17, Phil. 3:10

c.  The journey is fruitful: John 12:32, John 15:1-5

B. Life in Heaven: The Pilgrim’s End

1. Who is present: Rev. 21:3a, Jer. 31:33-34, Rev. 4&5

2. What will be our experience: Rev. 21:3c, John 1:14-17

3. What is absent: Rev. 21