Is it okay to date a non-Christian? Is it okay to marry a non-Christian? It’s a topic that’s often debated and discussed. Yet the correct answer to this can be explicitly found in the Bible.
“Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?” – 2 Corinthians 6:14
In terms of marriage, it’s important to recognise that it is not merely a physical covenant on Earth, but it is also a spiritual covenant in the eyes of God. The knot has been tied in front of God and man, leaving the soul of man and wife to be bound in unison. This links to the meaning of the Apostle Paul’s words in his letter to the Corinthians. Truth of the matter is – if you were bound to something that disagreed with your will every time you made key decisions, you would end up wrestling with it and won’t remain attached for much longer. The same goes for marriage – the two of you are meant to be in agreement in spiritual as well as other matters.
Dating a non-Christian is perhaps not as clear cut as marrying a non-Christian. However, it is important to realise that doing this can lead to temptation to sin sexually. It’s no rumour that pre-marital sex has become increasingly common and is no longer regarded in society as a taboo. However, just because it is legal from age sixteen in the world does not mean it is legal in the word. A likely situation that may occur from dating a non-Christian is that there will be pressure to engage in pre-marital sex. There are two possible outcomes: either compromising to your beliefs or ending the relationship – which is not as easy as it sounds once you’ve become attached to this guy. I suppose this is a way that demonstrates that there are several areas where Christianity clashes with other values which will only give rise to problems within the relationship.
He may have the nicest looks, personality, (even money) but it is essential to recognise that proceeding to an everlasting union ‘til death do us part with a man who does not agree with you spiritually suggests that you are not walking within the will of God. If anything, just pause. God has his own timing. Remember that He has a plan for your life and that it is important to continue to pray about your future lifelong partner.
Written by Chinazum Ukata