What instruction is given in the New Testament regarding marriage with unbelievers?
Answer
"Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with
unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with
Belial? Or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God
with idols? For ye are the temple of the living God." 2 Cor. 6: 14-16.
NOTE-This instruction forbids all compromising partnerships. Marriage of believers with
unbelievers has ever been a snare by which Satan has captured many earnest souls who thought they could
win the unbelieving, but in most cases have themselves drifted away from the moorings of faith into doubt,
backsliding, and loss of religion. It was one of Israel's constant dangers, against which God warned them
repeatedly. "Give not your daughters unto their sons, neither take their daughters unto your sons, nor seek
their peace [by such compromise] or their wealth for ever." Ezra 9:12. See also Ex. 34:14-16; Judges 14 :13; Ezra 9 and 10; and Neh. 13: 23-27. Even Solomon fell before the influence of heathen wives.
Concerning him the inspired Word has left this melancholy record: 'His wives turned away his heart after
other gods."1 Kings 11:4. No Christian can marry an unbeliever without running serious risk, and placing
himself upon the enemy's ground. The Scriptures do not advocate separation after the union has been
formed (see I Cor. 7: 2-16), but good sense should teach us that faith can best be maintained, and domestic
happiness best ensured, where both husband and wife are believers, and of the same faith. Both ministers
and parents, therefore, should warn the young against all improper marriages.
In what one word is the character of God expressed?
In what other statement did He teach the same truth?
How did this change in observance of days come about, suddenly or gradually?
What means will be employed to compel all to receive this mark?
How does James say the rich have treated the just?
What promise, through the prophet Malachi, does the Lord make concerning Elijah?
What does Paul say of their number?
Questions & Answers are from the book Bible Readings for the Home Circle