Marriage is a union of two lives, and the Bible advises believers to marry those who share their faith. This helps build a strong foundation in Christ. Today, we’ll see what Scripture says about marrying someone who doesn’t share your beliefs.
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What Does The Bible Say About Marrying A Non Christian
1 Corinthians 7:39
“A woman is bound to her husband as long as he lives. But if her husband dies, she is free to marry anyone she wishes, but he must belong to the Lord.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of marrying someone who is a believer in Christ. It highlights the principle that a believer should seek a spouse who shares their faith and commitment to the Lord.
While it is not inherently sinful to marry a non-Christian, it can present challenges and potential conflicts in the marriage. Marrying a non-Christian may hinder spiritual growth, lead to conflicting values, and inhibit the ability to fully live out the Christian faith. It is therefore advisable for believers to marry someone who shares their spiritual convictions to ensure a harmonious and God-centered union.
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 highlights the importance of not entering into intimate relationships, such as marriage, with unbelievers. It emphasizes the significant differences between believers and non-believers in terms of values, beliefs, and lifestyles.
Marrying a non-Christian can lead to conflicts in the relationship, as the couple may have opposing worldviews and priorities. It can also hinder spiritual growth and compromise the believer’s commitment to following Christ. Therefore, it is wise to heed this biblical admonition and seek a spouse who shares the same faith.
Ezra 10:3
“Now therefore let us make a covenant with our God to put away all the wives, and such as are born of them, according to the counsel of my lord, and of those who tremble at the commandment of our God; and let it be done according to the law.”
This verse recounts an incident in which the Israelites, who had married foreign women, were commanded to separate themselves from their non-Israelite wives. This demonstrates the seriousness of marrying outside of one’s faith and the need for believers to prioritize their relationship with God.
The Israelites understood the importance of maintaining their spiritual purity and heritage. While this specific situation may not directly apply to believers today, it serves as a reminder that marrying a non-believer can lead to compromising one’s faith and deviating from God’s commands. It encourages believers to be cautious and discerning in their choice of a spouse.
Deuteronomy 7:3-4
“Do not intermarry with them. Do not give your daughters to their sons or take their daughters for your sons, for they will turn your children away from following me to serve other gods. Then the Lord’s anger will burn against you and will quickly destroy you.”
This passage applies specifically to the Israelites, warning them against intermarrying with the pagan nations surrounding them. It reveals God’s concern for the spiritual well-being of His people and the potential dangers that come with marrying outside of one’s faith.
While the context may differ today, the underlying principle remains relevant. Marrying a non-Christian can lead to a dilution or abandonment of one’s faith, as the influence of different beliefs and values can detract from devotion to God. It is a reminder to seek a partner who shares the same spiritual foundation to ensure a strong and steadfast relationship with the Lord.
1 Kings 11:2
“They were from nations about which the Lord had told the Israelites, ‘You must not intermarry with them, because they will surely turn your hearts after their gods.’ Nevertheless, Solomon held fast to them in love.”
This verse recounts how King Solomon, against God’s command, married foreign women who led him astray and caused him to worship other gods. It serves as a cautionary example of the negative consequences of marrying someone who does not share the same faith.
Even the wisest man in the Bible was not immune to the corrupting influence of marrying outside his faith. Solomon’s love for his foreign wives led him away from God, resulting in the decline of his spiritual life and his kingdom. It highlights the critical need for believers to marry individuals who will support and encourage their relationship with God.
Nehemiah 13:25
“I rebuked them and cursed them. I beat some of the men and pulled out their hair. I made them take an oath in God’s name and said: ‘You are not to give your daughters in marriage to their sons, nor are you to take their daughters in marriage for your sons or for yourselves.”
In this passage, Nehemiah confronted the Israelites who had married foreign women and forcefully reminded them of the importance of marrying within their own faith. He took extreme measures to rectify the sinful unions, demonstrating the seriousness of the situation.
While Nehemiah’s actions may appear harsh, his intention was to protect the spiritual integrity of the people. Marrying non-believers can lead to compromises in faith and hinder the spiritual growth of both partners. This verse serves as a strong reminder to believers to prioritize their relationship with God over any potential romantic relationships that may lead them away from Him.
Genesis 24:3
“I want you to swear by the Lord, the God of heaven and the God of earth, that you will not get a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I am living.”
In this verse, Abraham instructs his servant to find a wife for his son Isaac from their own people rather than from the Canaanites. This demonstrates Abraham’s conviction to maintain the purity of his lineage and faith.
While this passage primarily relates to preserving the Israelite heritage at that time, it can also be seen as a biblical example of the principle of marrying within the faith. By seeking a spouse who shares the same faith, believers can protect their spiritual legacy and ensure the continuity of their devotion to God.
Ruth 1:16-17
“But Ruth replied, ‘Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me.'”
Ruth’s response to her mother-in-law, Naomi, reflects her commitment to forsake her own people and follow Naomi’s faith and God. This account demonstrates the significance of shared faith and the willingness to leave behind one’s previous beliefs and practices for the sake of unity and devotion to God.
Ruth’s decision to embrace the God of Israel and join His people showcased her loyalty, sacrifice, and willingness to prioritize her spiritual commitment over personal comfort. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of marrying someone who shares the same faith and values, even if it requires leaving behind familiar surroundings.
Malachi 2:11
“Judah has been unfaithful. A detestable thing has been committed in Israel and in Jerusalem: Judah has desecrated the sanctuary the Lord loves by marrying women who worship a foreign god.”
In this verse, Malachi rebukes the Israelites for marrying foreign women who worshipped other gods. He refers to this act as an abomination that defiles the sanctuary and displeases the Lord.
This passage highlights the adverse consequences of marrying someone who does not share the same faith. It shows that such unions can lead to a compromise of worship and a drifting away from the devotion and obedience expected of believers. It warns against participating in relationships that undermine one’s spiritual commitment and relationship with God.
1 Kings 16:31
“And as if it were not enough to follow the sins of Jeroboam, he married Jezebel daughter of Ethbaal king of the Sidonians, and began to serve Baal and worship him.”
In this verse, King Ahab’s marriage to Jezebel, a pagan worshipper of Baal, led him to abandon the worship of the true God and embrace idolatry. This account serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of marrying someone who does not share the same faith and can lead to spiritual compromise.
Ahab’s decision to marry Jezebel had severe consequences not only for himself but for the entire nation of Israel. It led to the proliferation of idolatry and a departure from God’s commandments. This passage reinforces the importance of marrying someone who shares the same faith and values to safeguard one’s spiritual well-being.
Joshua 23:12-13
“If you turn away and ally yourselves with the survivors of these nations that remain among you and if you intermarry with them and associate with them, then you may be sure that the Lord your God will no longer drive out these nations before you. Instead, they will become snares and traps for you, whips on your backs and thorns in your eyes, until you perish from this good land, which the Lord your God has given you.”
Joshua warns the Israelites about the consequences of intermarrying with the pagan nations that remained in the land of Canaan. He highlights that such unions will result in spiritual and physical harm, leading to the downfall of God’s chosen people.
This passage serves as a powerful reminder of the potential dangers of marrying someone who does not share the same faith and values. By entering into an unequal yoke, believers put themselves at risk of being swayed from their devotion to God and falling into sinful practices. It emphasizes the need to prioritize obedience to God’s commands and seek a spouse who shares the same faith.
Judges 3:5-6
“The Israelites lived among the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites and Jebusites. They took their daughters in marriage and gave their own daughters to their sons, and served their gods.”
This verse highlights the Israelites’ violation of God’s command to not intermarry with the pagan nations that surrounded them. They not only married the daughters of these nations but also allowed their own daughters to marry the men of these foreign nations, leading to a compromising of their faith and allegiance to God.
Marrying outside of one’s faith can have significant implications for spiritual integrity and fidelity to God. This verse illustrates the connection between intermarriage with unbelievers and the worship of false gods. It serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining one’s commitment and devotion to God by marrying someone who shares the same faith.
Ezra 9:14
“Shall we then break your commands again and intermarry with the peoples who commit such detestable practices? Would you not be angry enough with us to destroy us, leaving us no remnant or survivor?”
The people of Israel recognized the seriousness of intermarrying with those who practiced detestable acts and worshipped false gods. They acknowledged the potential consequences of disobeying God’s commands and sought repentance and restoration.
This verse portrays the Israelites’ understanding of the dangers that come with marrying non-believers. It showcases their repentance and willingness to correct their disobedience, realizing that marrying outside of their faith would lead to God’s judgment and the destruction of their community. It reminds believers today to be vigilant and faithful in their choice of a spouse to avoid compromising their faith and relationship with God.
Ezra 10:2
“Then Shekaniah son of Jehiel, one of the descendants of Elam, said to Ezra, ‘We have been unfaithful to our God by marrying foreign women from the peoples around us. But in spite of this, there is still hope for Israel.”
In this verse, Shekaniah acknowledges the Israelites’ unfaithfulness in marrying foreign women and recognizes the need for repentance and restoration. He expresses hope that, even in their disobedience, God’s mercy and grace can restore Israel.
This verse highlights the importance of repentance and seeking God’s forgiveness when one has strayed from His commands. It demonstrates the understanding that marrying outside of one’s faith is a violation of God’s will and a form of unfaithfulness. It encourages believers to turn back to God, acknowledge their mistakes, and find renewed hope and restoration in His grace.
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.”
While not specifically addressing marrying a non-believer, this verse advises against close associations with individuals who possess negative and destructive traits. The principle conveyed can be applied to the idea of marrying someone who does not share the same faith.
Marrying a non-Christian may expose a believer to the risk of adopting worldly values and wayward behavior. The influence and example of a spouse can have a profound impact on a person’s beliefs and actions. Therefore, it is wise to seek a spouse who shares the same faith and upholds biblical principles to avoid being ensnared by the ways and beliefs of the world.
1 Samuel 25:3
“His name was Nabal and his wife’s name was Abigail. She was an intelligent and beautiful woman, but her husband was surly and mean in his dealings—he was a Calebite.”
This verse introduces the contrasting characters of Abigail and Nabal. Abigail is portrayed as a wise and virtuous woman, while Nabal is depicted as harsh and wicked. It serves as a cautionary example of the potential difficulties that can arise in a marriage between believers and non-believers.
This passage highlights the potential challenges of being in a marriage where there is a stark difference in character, values, and beliefs. The compatibility and unity essential for a healthy and thriving marriage may be compromised when spouses do not share the same faith. It encourages believers to seek a partner who reflects godly virtues and shares a common commitment to Christ.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
Though not directly addressing marital relationships, this proverb emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with individuals who inspire growth and accountability. It can be applied to the concept of marrying someone who shares the same faith and values.
A spouse who shares the same faith can provide encouragement, spiritual support, and challenge one another to grow in their relationship with God. They can sharpen each other’s character and deepen their understanding of biblical truths. By choosing a partner who shares the same faith, believers can foster a mutually uplifting and Christ-centered marriage.
Proverbs 14:7
“Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips.”
While this verse primarily addresses the avoidance of foolish people, it indirectly applies to the concept of marrying someone who does not share the same faith. By marrying a non-believer, one may risk being in a relationship where godly wisdom and knowledge are absent.
A spouse who does not share a Christian worldview may not possess the spiritual discernment and understanding necessary to navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and biblical principles. This verse serves as a reminder to seek a partner who embraces God’s wisdom and imparts knowledge that is grounded in truth and righteousness.
Proverbs 31:30
“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”
This verse extols the value and worth of a woman who reveres and honors the Lord. It highlights the eternal significance of a woman’s devotion to God and emphasizes that inner beauty and godliness hold far greater significance than external attractiveness.
When seeking a spouse, it is essential to prioritize character and spiritual qualities over external qualities. A woman who fears the Lord and lives according to His commandments reflects a heart devoted to God and a foundation for a flourishing marriage. This verse reminds believers to value and seek a partner who embodies godly virtues, emphasizing the importance of shared faith in a marriage relationship.
Proverbs 2:20-22
“Thus you will walk in the ways of the good and keep to the paths of the righteous. For the upright will live in the land, and the blameless will remain in it; but the wicked will be cut off from the land, and the unfaithful will be torn from it.”
In this passage, the importance of aligning oneself with the ways of the righteous is emphasized. By choosing a spouse who shares the same faith, one can walk in the paths of righteousness and experience the blessings and favor of God.
A believer who marries a non-Christian risks straying from the paths of righteousness and may face spiritual compromise and challenges. This verse encourages believers to seek a spouse who walks in God’s ways and upholds biblical truths, ensuring a harmonious and God-honoring marriage.
Proverbs 12:4
“A wife of noble character is her husband’s crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.”
Though this verse primarily focuses on the character of a wife, it also applies to husbands. By marrying someone who possesses noble character and also shares the same faith, one can experience the blessings and benefits of a healthy and uplifting marriage.
A spouse who shares the same faith can provide support, encouragement, and companionship in the pursuit of godliness. They become a source of strength and a crown that brings honor to their spouse. This verse serves as a reminder to choose a spouse who exemplifies virtue and shares the same faith, ensuring a fruitful and enriching marriage.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
“Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.”
This verse emphasizes the power and advantage of companionship and partnership in life. By choosing a spouse who shares the same faith, believers can experience the profound benefits of spiritual unity and support.
A spouse who shares the same faith becomes a source of strength, encouragement, and mutual assistance in times of difficulty. They contribute to a vibrant and flourishing marriage founded on a common devotion to God. This verse encourages believers to seek a partner who will journey with them in their spiritual walk, providing support and companionship along the way.
Psalm 37:4
“Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”
This beloved verse reminds believers of the importance of finding delight and satisfaction in the Lord above all else. By prioritizing one’s relationship with God, one can trust that He will guide and fulfill the desires of their heart, including the desire for a godly spouse.
Seeking and marrying someone who shares the same faith is an expression of delighting in the Lord and prioritizing a God-centered relationship. This verse encourages believers to trust in God’s timing and faithfulness, knowing that as they delight in Him, He will grant them the desires of their heart according to His perfect plan.