Should Christians Go on a Pilgrimage to Jerusalem?
The city of Jerusalem holds great significance for Christians, as it is the location of many important biblical events. Some Christians feel called to make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem in order to connect more deeply with their faith. However, the Bible does not command or even recommend that Christians must visit Jerusalem. There are good reasons to go, but also reasons why a trip may not be feasible or even advisable for every believer.
Biblical History of Jerusalem
Jerusalem is mentioned over 800 times in the Bible, highlighting its importance in Judeo-Christian history. It was the capital city of ancient Israel and the location of the Jewish temple (2 Chronicles 3). Jesus traveled there often and taught in the temple courts (John 10:23). The Last Supper, arrest, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus all took place in or near Jerusalem as well. After Pentecost, the early church was headquartered there initially (Acts 15:2). The Bible predicts that Jerusalem will also be the location of the second coming of Christ (Zechariah 14:4).
Reasons to Visit Jerusalem
Seeing Biblical Sites: For Christians, visiting Jerusalem provides the opportunity to see and touch places they’ve read about in the Bible. This brings the stories to life. Sites include the traditional location of the crucifixion at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the Upper Room where the Last Supper was held, the Western Wall of the ancient temple, and many more. Walking where Jesus walked can be a powerful, emotional experience.
Learning: Seeing the geography and culture of Jerusalem gives insight into the biblical accounts. For example, understanding the extreme terrain Jesus traveled helps appreciate the dedication of his journey to Jerusalem before his crucifixion (Luke 13:22). Visiting the stark Judean wilderness surrounding the city also provides perspective on why it was an arduous trek for the ancient Israelites.
Strengthening Faith: A pilgrimage can strengthen faith by providing an opportunity to focus intently on God amidst sites of biblical importance. Removing oneself from the distractions of everyday life allows time for reflection, prayer, and study. Seeing archaeological evidence of biblical accounts can encourage believers too.
Fulfilling a Sense of Calling: Some Christians feel a strong spiritual prompting to make the pilgrimage. They sense God calling them to Jerusalem for a specific purpose, such as interceding for the peace of the city (Psalm 122:6). Others may feel they are symbolically following in Jesus’s footsteps. Ignoring this sense of calling could cause spiritual regret.
Reasons Not to Visit Jerusalem
No Biblical Command: Though Jerusalem was central in early Christianity, the Bible nowhere instructs Christians that they must visit the city. Jesus emphasized the importance of spiritual knowledge and relationship with God rather than external rituals or locations (Luke 17:20-21).
Danger: Jerusalem has been conquered by various empires throughout history. While now under Israeli control, ongoing tensions make Jerusalem prone to violence between Jews, Muslims, Christians, and others claiming religious ties. The US and other nations frequently issue travel warnings.
Expense: For people of limited means, the cost of international flights and accommodations in Jerusalem may be prohibitive. God would not likely call someone on a pilgrimage they couldn’t afford. But if God truly calls and funds are lacking, He can provide needed resources (Mark 11:2-6).
Fear: Some Christians may feel an obligation to visit Jerusalem but be kept from going by fears of terrorism or violence. However, the Bible teaches that Christians receive power from the Holy Spirit and need not be controlled by fear (2 Timothy 1:7).
Idolatry: While seeing biblical sites can strengthen faith, some Christians may be tempted to treat the pilgrimage itself as a source of spiritual power. They risk making an idol out of the trip rather than keeping their eyes on God (Exodus 20:4). Places and objects have no power apart from God.
Unclear Calling: For Christians not sensing a strong, clear personal leading from God to visit Jerusalem, it may be best to avoid going. Otherwise the trip may become a spiritual distraction or obligation. God leads different Christians in different ways.
Considerations When Discerning a Pilgrimage
Pray: Christians wanting to discern if they should embark on a Jerusalem pilgrimage should devote time to prayer and fasting to seek God’s will (Acts 13:2-3). God may speak through spiritual promptings or wise counsel.
Evaluate Costs: Count the financial and personal costs of the journey realistically. Be sure it is financially viable and consider factors like work, family responsibilities, health limitations, etc.
Consider Timing: Make sure the timing is right to take a lengthy overseas trip. Don’t go during times of acute personal crisis or obligations. But if God is truly calling you to go, He will enable it in His timing.
Check Motives: Examine motivations carefully. Is the pilgrimage for spiritual growth or just tourism? Is the primary purpose to check off a religious obligation? Internal reflection ensures the focus stays on drawing closer to God.
Seek Counsel: Share your thoughts with mature Christian friends and leaders. See if they confirm your calling and willingness to go. Listen humbly to wisdom or concerns they may voice.
Assess Risks: Soberly weigh all safety concerns and risks. Take prudent precautions. Ultimately, Christians can have faith in God’s protection, but not test it unnecessarily (Luke 4:9-12).
Conclusion
Ultimately, Scripture neither requires nor forbids Christians from making a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. Though the city was central in the Bible and early church history, what matters most is each believer’s personal relationship with God. For those sensing the Lord calling them to make the journey for spiritual purposes, and who count the cost realistically, a trip can certainly be worthwhile. But other followers may be blessed just as richly without ever needing to go. Biblical faith is about spiritual transformation, not geographical locations. Christians should feel freedom to follow God’s unique leading for their lives.