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NASB | 2 Corinthians 6:14 ¶ Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness? |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 2 Corinthians 6:14 ¶ Do not be unequally bound together with unbelievers [do not make mismatched alliances with them, inconsistent with your faith]. For what partnership can righteousness have with lawlessness? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? |
Bible Question:
Now I've heard this verse before many times. But why exactly is it wrong, or won't work, or is difficult? I quoted this verse to someone at college and they said things like, "As long as the non-Christian respects the other's commitment to Christ" and "People in a relationship with two different faiths can learn from each other" and more of the same. And how about casual relationships that aren't marriage? I know part of their arguments are humanistic and relativist. But I need an answer they'll respect. One that doesn't make Christians out to be exclusionary. Thanks! Jo |
Bible Answer: Greetings Jo! You wrote: "I know part of their arguments are humanistic and relativist. But I need an answer they'll respect. One that doesn't make Christians out to be exclusionary." This will be difficult to accomplish because Christianity is exclusionary! :-) The primary context of 2 Cor. 6:14 is not marriage. Although, the principle can certainly be applied to marriage as well. The primary context is one of holiness. In 2 Cor. 6:1, Paul says, "As God’s fellow workers we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain." While in 2 Cor. 7:1, Paul says, "Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God." Thus, Paul's concern seems to be that Christians not live like the world, and thus make their faith vain. However, the principle certainly applies to all areas of our lives. We should not be unequally yoked. Righteousness should not be in partnership with unrighteousness. Good cannot be in partnership with evil. Certainly this would be true in marriage as well. Marriage is meant to be 'two becoming one flesh'. How can this be if the two have totally different agendas or worldviews? What values would be shared? What beliefs would be taught to their children? What fellowship would they attend for worship? I may learn things from other people with different views. However, I am asking for trouble if I 'partner' up with someone who does not share the same goals in life in common with me. :-) I hope this helps! Your Brother in Christ, Tim Moran |