"Do not be unequally yoked with non-believers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?" 2 Corinthians 6:14 (English Standard Version)
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, today we discuss a matter close to the heart – marriage and dating. 2 Corinthians 6:14 written by Apostle Paul, calls for Christians to be mindful of the partners they choose. It's a plea for spiritual compatibility. Just as a yoke binds two animals to work in unison, marriage binds two individuals in a spiritual, emotional, and physical partnership.
The non-believer, as Scripture warns, is 'dead in their sins' and 'unclean.' This perception isn’t about physical cleanliness but rather the spiritual state, for those not in Christ are not washed clean by His sacrifice.
Marriage is more than a transient earthly arrangement, it's a divine covenant echoing into eternity. By marrying a believer, we share the gift of faith, and the unending promise of an eternal life together in Heaven. This isn't a gift to be taken lightly.
When we choose a partner, the primary consideration should be their relationship with God. The love that a Christian couple shares is a reflection of God's love for us. In a non-Christian partner, this profound connection is absent. Our love for our partners should emulate Jesus's love for us - selfless, patient, and kind. Without knowing God's love, one cannot fully comprehend or emulate such love.
The best place to start looking for a Christian partner? It's the church, where faith is already in motion. Still, we must not be naive to 'wolves in sheep’s clothing.' It's essential that we seek signs of saving faith - the fruits of the Spirit - in our potential partners instead of merely accepting their profession of faith.
So, let's reflect on 2 Corinthians 6:14, reminding ourselves of the importance of spiritual compatibility in our relationships.
Prayer: Almighty God, thank you for the wisdom imparted through your Word. Guide us, Lord, as we navigate our relationships, that we may not be 'unequally yoked.' Help us to discern, seek, and value spiritual compatibility in our partners. Equip us to emulate Your love in our relationships, showing the fruits of the Spirit. In Jesus's name, we pray. Amen.
In conclusion, let us be reminded that the journey of Christian marriage and dating is not merely a walk for two. It's a spiritual journey, a partnership with Christ at its core. Let's strive to honor God in our relationships, aligning our lives with His Word, and seeking His wisdom in our choice of partners.