Christians are often encouraged to share their faith, but what does the Bible say about forming close relationships with unbelievers? While scripture calls believers to be a light in the world, it also warns against being influenced by ungodly behavior. Exploring these teachings can help us find the balance between sharing Christ’s love and protecting our spiritual walk.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Seasons In Your Life
What Does The Bible Say About Hanging Out With Unbelievers
2 Corinthians 6:14
“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?”
This verse emphasizes the importance of maintaining separation from unbelievers in order to guard against compromising our faith. It reminds us that righteousness and wickedness cannot coexist harmoniously, and that our fellowship should be with those who share our faith.
Hanging out with unbelievers can lead to moral compromise and a dilution of our Christian values. It is essential to prioritize our spiritual well-being and seek fellowship with fellow believers who can encourage and uplift us in our faith.
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.'”
This verse warns against the influence of negative company. The company we keep can either have a positive or negative impact on our character and behavior. Hanging out with unbelievers who may have different values and beliefs can potentially lead us astray and compromise our morals.
While we should certainly show love and kindness to unbelievers, it is wise to exercise caution and avoid being heavily influenced or engrossed in their lifestyle. Surrounding ourselves with people who share our faith helps to strengthen and preserve our Christian character.
1 Corinthians 5:11
“But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler—not even to eat with such a one.”
This verse highlights the importance of refraining from close association with fellow believers who engage in unrepentant sinful behavior. While we are called to love and forgive, there is also a need for maintaining boundaries when it comes to individuals who persist in ungodly lifestyles.
Hanging out with such individuals can compromise our own moral standards and send mixed messages about our faith. It is important to maintain healthy relationships that encourage growth and godliness, while also seeking to guide and support those who may be struggling in their walk with Christ.
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
This verse reminds us of the impact our companions can have on our lives. When we surround ourselves with wise and godly individuals, we are more likely to grow in wisdom and understanding. However, associating with foolish and unwise people can lead to harm and hinder our own spiritual development.
Hanging out with unbelievers who do not share our faith can expose us to worldviews, attitudes, and behaviors that are contrary to biblical teachings. While we should show love and seek to be a positive influence, it is important to prioritize our spiritual well-being by spending time with those who will encourage us in our walk with Christ.
Psalm 1:1-2
“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.”
This passage emphasizes the importance of avoiding the company of the wicked and sinners. Instead, we are encouraged to delight in the law of the Lord and continually meditate on it. By doing so, we align ourselves with the ways of God and find blessings in our lives.
Hanging out with unbelievers can expose us to environments and influences that contradict God’s Word. It is crucial to prioritize spending time with God and immersing ourselves in His truth as we seek to grow in our faith and remain rooted in His wisdom.
Proverbs 12:26
“The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.”
This proverb highlights the importance of deliberate and careful selection of our friends and companions. The company we keep has a significant impact on our lives and can either help us stay on the righteous path or lead us astray.
Hanging out with unbelievers who do not share our faith can potentially expose us to beliefs and values that are contrary to the teachings of Christ. It is essential to surround ourselves with friends who share our commitment to righteousness and can support us in our walk with God.
James 4:4
“You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.”
This verse emphasizes the spiritual significance of our friendships and associations. It warns against being too closely aligned with the values and ways of the world, as it can create hostility towards God.
Hanging out with unbelievers can expose us to worldly attitudes and behaviors that can hinder our relationship with God. While we are called to be a light in the world and show love to unbelievers, finding the right balance is crucial in order to protect our faith and maintain our allegiance to God.
Proverbs 22:24-25
“Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.”
These verses caution against forming close relationships with individuals who have a quick temper or are easily angered. Associating with such people can lead us into adopting their negative behaviors and ensnare us in their harmful patterns.
When it comes to hanging out with unbelievers, we should be mindful of their character traits and ensure that their behavior does not influence us in negative ways. Choosing friends who display qualities aligned with Christ’s teachings is essential for our spiritual growth and well-being.
Matthew 6:24
“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”
This verse highlights the need to choose our allegiances wisely. We cannot serve both God and the world’s pursuits. Maintaining close relationships with unbelievers who prioritize worldly pursuits can potentially distract us from our commitment to God.
Hanging out with unbelievers might expose us to a relentless pursuit of worldly gains, which can hinder our spiritual growth and distract us from our devotion to God. We are called to prioritize our relationship with God above all else and surround ourselves with friends who share this commitment.
1 Peter 4:3-4
“For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing, and detestable idolatry. They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you.”
These verses remind us of our past lives before accepting Christ, living in ways contrary to God’s will. They also highlight the opposition we may face from unbelievers when we choose not to participate in their reckless and sinful behaviors.
Hanging out with unbelievers can lead to pressure and ridicule for our refusal to engage in their worldly pursuits. However, our commitment to following Christ should take precedence over seeking acceptance from others. Surrounding ourselves with fellow believers helps us stay strong in our faith amidst such opposition.
Proverbs 14:7
“Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips.”
This proverb advises us to distance ourselves from fools who lack wisdom and understanding. Associating with foolish individuals can hinder our pursuit of knowledge and lead us astray.
Hanging out with unbelievers who do not acknowledge God’s wisdom may expose us to worldly views and ideologies that contradict biblical truths. While we should demonstrate God’s love to all people, it is important to prioritize our spiritual growth by surrounding ourselves with wise and godly influences.
1 Corinthians 10:21
“You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons too; you cannot have a part in both the Lord’s table and the table of demons.”
This verse highlights the incompatibility of participating in the things of God and partaking in the sinful practices associated with idolatry or evil. It underscores the need to remain separate from sinful influences and worldly practices.
Hanging out with unbelievers who engage in beliefs or practices that contradict our faith can potentially lead us into compromising our devotion to God. It is crucial to prioritize our relationship with Christ and not engage in activities or associations that conflict with our commitment to Him.
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
This proverb emphasizes the correlation between the company we keep and our personal growth. When we surround ourselves with wise and godly individuals, we are more likely to develop wisdom ourselves. However, associating with foolish and unwise people can lead to harm and hinder our own spiritual development.
Hanging out with unbelievers who do not share our faith may expose us to perspectives and ideologies that contradict biblical wisdom. While showing love and kindness to unbelievers is important, we should be mindful of the impact our associations can have on our own spiritual growth and strive to surround ourselves with wise and mature believers.
Psalm 119:63
“I am a friend to all who fear you, to all who follow your precepts.”
This verse describes the psalmist’s commitment to befriend those who fear and follow God’s commandments. It signifies the importance of aligning ourselves with like-minded individuals who share our dedication to living a righteous life.
While it is important to show love and compassion to unbelievers, it is equally important to prioritize cultivating friendships with fellow believers who can strengthen and encourage us in our faith. Surrounding ourselves with those who share our values and beliefs can have a positive impact on our spiritual growth and journey.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
This proverb emphasizes the importance of surrounding ourselves with individuals who can challenge us, encourage growth, and sharpen our character. Just as iron sharpens iron, our relationships and associations should positively influence our spiritual development.
Hanging out with believers who are committed to their faith can ignite our passion for Christ and inspire us to grow deeper in our own walk with the Lord. While we should not neglect showing love to unbelievers, it is vital to prioritize spending time with fellow believers who can help sharpen our spiritual understanding and commitment.
Proverbs 17:17
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
This proverb highlights the significance of genuine friendship and the support it provides in times of difficulty. True friends display love, loyalty, and support consistently, especially during challenging seasons of life.
While we should show love and kindness to unbelievers, cultivating deep and enduring friendships can be challenging if they do not share our faith. It is important to foster relationships with fellow believers who can offer unwavering support and encouragement, particularly during times of adversity.
Proverbs 11:14
“Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”
This proverb highlights the importance of seeking wise guidance and counsel in life. Surrounding ourselves with wise and godly individuals who can provide guidance, insight, and accountability is crucial for our spiritual growth and well-being.
Hanging out with unbelievers who do not prioritize godly wisdom may not provide the guidance and counsel we need to navigate life’s challenges. By prioritizing relationships with fellow believers, we can benefit from the safety and wisdom that comes from seeking counsel from those who share our faith.
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.'”
This verse warns against the influence of negative company. The company we keep can either have a positive or negative impact on our character and behavior. Hanging out with unbelievers who may have different values and beliefs can potentially lead us astray and compromise our morals.
While we should certainly show love and kindness to unbelievers, it is wise to exercise caution and avoid being heavily influenced or engrossed in their lifestyle. Surrounding ourselves with people who share our faith helps to strengthen and preserve our Christian character.
2 Timothy 2:22
“Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”
This verse encourages us to flee from evil desires and actively pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace. It also emphasizes the importance of surrounding ourselves with individuals who share a pure heart and call on the Lord.
Hanging out with unbelievers can expose us to temptations and desires that are against God’s will. By intentionally seeking fellowship with believers who are committed to righteousness and following Christ, we create an environment that nurtures spiritual growth and helps us stay focused on pursuing godliness.
Proverbs 1:15-16
“My son, do not go along with them, do not set foot on their paths; for their feet rush into evil, they are swift to shed blood.”
These verses caution against joining others in their sinful ways and urges us to stay away from paths that lead to evil. They highlight the importance of avoiding association with those who engage in violence and wrongdoing.
Hanging out with unbelievers who may be inclined towards sinful practices, violence, or immoral behavior can put our spiritual well-being at risk. It is essential to align ourselves with friends who pursue righteousness and provide a positive influence on our journey of faith.
John 15:19
“If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.”
These words of Jesus remind us that as followers of Christ, we are set apart from the world. Our identity and allegiance are to God, and this can sometimes result in the world’s hostility and rejection.
Hanging out with unbelievers can expose us to their differing values and perspectives, which may clash with our own faith. As we seek to live out our identity as followers of Christ, it is important to prioritize our relationship with God and surround ourselves with fellow believers who can provide support and understanding.
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.'”
This verse warns against the influence of negative company. The company we keep can either have a positive or negative impact on our character and behavior. Hanging out with unbelievers who may have different values and beliefs can potentially lead us astray and compromise our morals.
While we should certainly show love and kindness to unbelievers, it is wise to exercise caution and avoid being heavily influenced or engrossed in their lifestyle. Surrounding ourselves with people who share our faith helps to strengthen and preserve our Christian character.
2 Corinthians 6:17
“Therefore, come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.”
This verse calls for believers to separate themselves from worldly influences and unclean practices. It reminds us that our commitment to Christ involves a willingness to set ourselves apart from the ways of the world.
Hanging out with unbelievers can expose us to behaviors and practices that conflict with our dedication to holiness and righteousness. While we are called to show love and share the message of Christ with unbelievers, we should also prioritize our spiritual well-being by spending time with fellow believers who can support and encourage us in our faith.
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
This verse encourages us not to conform to the patterns and values of the world but instead to allow our minds to be transformed by God. By renewing our thinking according to God’s truth, we can discern His will and align ourselves with His purposes.
When we hang out with unbelievers, there is a risk of conforming to the world’s patterns and adopting its values. It is important to prioritize our spiritual transformation by spending time with fellow believers, studying God’s Word, and seeking His guidance in all areas of our lives.
2 Timothy 3:5
“having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.”
This verse warns against those who claim to have a form of godliness but deny its transformative power. It advises us to have no association with such people who may mislead or damage our faith.
Hanging out with unbelievers who profess faith but do not bear the fruit of a genuine relationship with Christ can cause confusion and potentially weaken our own faith. It is crucial to surround ourselves with authentic believers who demonstrate godly character and a vibrant relationship with God.
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
This proverb highlights the importance of walking alongside wise individuals. Associating with those who possess wisdom and godly insight can positively impact our own character and discernment. However, being in the company of fools can lead to harm and negative consequences.
Hanging out with unbelievers who lack godly wisdom and discernment can potentially compromise our own spiritual growth and decision-making. By prioritizing fellowship with fellow believers who exemplify wisdom, we can foster an environment that encourages growth and leads us on the path of godliness.