Some may ask, “Why should we study the missionary methods of Paul? Surely, in all this time, we have grown beyond his old ways and have found better ways of accomplishing ministry.”
To this I would say, look around at the condition of the church at large throughout the world today, and see if you can find a model of success that compares to Paul. Yes, we have our “mega-churches.” They have huge congregations and lots of money, but are they successful in the sight of God? Are they raising up a generation of mature, Bible-instructed believers? I think not. The ignorance of the average believer today is astounding. Many cannot even give a clear presentation of the Gospel message.
In a recent survey across the United States, only about 13% of regular church goers said that they believe in hell, and about the same number doubted the inspiration and infallibility of the Bible. The church as a whole is in a shambles, and the reason is that we have forsaken the God-given way—exemplified by Paul—to achieve the great commission of “making disciples of all nations” (Mat 28:19).

Gene Cunningham - April 8, 2000

Simplicity in Christ #9

2018 AYC Ladies Classes

The Simplicity of the Pilgrim Mentality



Heb 11:13-16 shows the pilgrim mentality among the heroes of faith. Pilgrim mindset:





  1. their eyes are fixed on eternity recognizing life is a temporary journey (Heb 11:13);


  2. They do not look back (Heb 11:15, Act 7:9, Heb 10:38-39);


  3. Their heart nor roots are in this world (Heb 11:14, Heb 11:16).




We need to be a "sojourner". Peter writes to those who are scattered, calling them pilgrims by nature (Acts 8:4). Peter exhorts them to have the pilgrim mindset (1Pe 2:11-12). As temporary residents, remain aloof from fleshly lusts (i.e., the desire to live in this world thinking you're going to stay) (Mat 13:22, Luk 21:34). "Fleshly lusts" are the cares of this life (2Ti 4:2). As witnesses in the world (1Pe 2:12).





  1. pilgrim lifestyle counteracts evil reports (2Co 4:1-7, 2Co 6:4-10);


  2. it is effective to win the lost (1Pe 2:12);


  3. Obedient to civil authority (1Pe 2:13-18); we need to earn the right to be heard;


  4. we're free from this temporary world (1Pe 2:16-18).




Abraham was given the land, but he wouldn't have it until after life (Act 7:1-8); Abraham had to conclude that his inheritence was in the next life ( Gen 15:1-6, Heb 11:8).  Abraham waited for the city God would provide (Heb 11:8-10). Jesus dwelt as a sojourner (Joh 1:14). Pilgrims are homeward bound (Heb 11:13, Mat 10:32, Phi 3:20, Act 5:29). Jesus warns about the cares of this world choking fruitfulness (Mat 13:22, Luk 21:34-35, Luk 17:32).





  • "Put your house in order" (Isa 38:1);


  • "Prepare to meet your God" (Amo 4:12);


  • "Burn your plow" (1Ki 19:21);


  • "Lay aside every weight that entangles" (Heb 12:1);


  • "take a sword" (Luk 22:36).




Scripture References: Hebrews 11:13, Hebrews 11:15, Luke 17:32, Matthew 13:22, John 1:14, Hebrews 11:13, Luke 21:34-35, Acts 8:4, Hebrews 11:8-10, Hebrews 11:13-16, Matthew 13:22, Hebrews 11:16, Luke 22:36, Hebrews 11:8, Acts 5:29, Hebrews 11:14, Hebrews 12:1, Genesis 15:1-6, Philippians 3:20, Hebrews 10:38-39, Amos 4:12, Acts 7:1-8, Matthew 10:32, Acts 7:9, Isaiah 38:1, Luke 21:34

More Messages from Gene Cunningham | Download Audio

From Series: "2018 AYC Ladies Classes"

Nan Cunningham spoke to the ladies at the 2018 AYC Camp.

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