Friendships are a vital part of life, but what about friendships with those who don’t share your faith? The Bible provides guidance on maintaining relationships while staying true to your beliefs. Today, we’ll discuss how to balance love and faith in friendships with non-Christians.
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What Does The Bible Say About Being Friends With Non Christians
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 being cautious when forming close relationships with non-believers. It reminds us that there can be fundamental differences in values, priorities, and beliefs that can create potential conflicts and challenges in the relationship.
While it is important to show love and share the Gospel with non-Christians, this verse encourages believers to maintain their identity in Christ and be discerning in the relationships they cultivate to ensure that their faith is not compromised.
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 serves as a warning against forming close alliances with the world and its values. It reminds us that we cannot serve both God and worldly desires or perspectives.
While we are called to live in the world and be a light to those around us, this verse emphasizes the importance of prioritizing our friendship with God over worldly friendships. It challenges us to evaluate the influence that our relationships have on our faith and urges us to choose friends who will encourage and strengthen our walk with Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.'”
This verse highlights the potential negative impact of spending time with those who do not share our faith. It reminds us that the company we keep can influence our character and behavior.
While we are called to show love and be a witness to non-believers, this verse serves as a cautionary reminder to be vigilant about the people we surround ourselves with. It encourages us to choose friends who will have a positive and uplifting influence on our walk with God.
Proverbs 12:26
“The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.”
This verse speaks to the importance of intentionally selecting our friends. It encourages us to exercise discernment and wisdom when forming relationships.
While we are called to reach out to non-believers and share the Gospel, this verse reminds us that our closest friendships should be with fellow believers who can support, encourage, and hold us accountable in our faith. It emphasizes the impact that our friendships can have on our spiritual journey and urges us to choose friends who will help us grow closer to God.
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
This verse emphasizes the influence that our friends can have on us. It encourages us to surround ourselves with wise and godly individuals who will positively impact our lives and help us grow in wisdom and understanding.
While we are called to reach out to non-believers and show them God’s love, this verse reminds us to be discerning in choosing our closest friends. It urges us to spend time with those who will encourage spiritual growth and help us become more like Christ.
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.”
This verse warns against befriending individuals who have a hot temper or are easily angered. It emphasizes the potential dangers of aligning ourselves with those who have negative and harmful qualities.
While we are called to love and show kindness to all people, this verse reminds us to be cautious about the influences that others can have on us. It encourages us to choose friends who possess qualities that align with the character of Christ and will positively impact our own behavior and attitude.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
This verse highlights the importance of surrounding ourselves with godly friends who can sharpen us spiritually. It emphasizes the mutual benefit and growth that can come from relationships where individuals challenge and encourage one another.
While we are called to reach out to non-believers and show them the love of Christ, this verse reminds us of the value of having strong Christian friendships. It emphasizes the impact that our friends can have on our spiritual journey, encouraging us to choose friends who will sharpen and strengthen our faith.
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 describes the blessedness of those who choose not to align themselves with the ways of the wicked. It stresses the importance of delighting in God’s Word and constantly meditating on it.
While we are called to love and share the Gospel with non-believers, this passage reminds us to be cautious about the company we keep. It encourages us to prioritize our relationship with God and immerse ourselves in His Word, guarding against influences that may lead us astray.
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
This verse emphasizes the influence that our friends can have on us. It encourages us to surround ourselves with wise and godly individuals who will positively impact our lives and help us grow in wisdom and understanding.
While we are called to reach out to non-believers and show them God’s love, this verse reminds us to be discerning in choosing our closest friends. It urges us to spend time with those who will encourage spiritual growth and help us become more like Christ.
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.”
This verse warns against befriending individuals who have a hot temper or are easily angered. It emphasizes the potential dangers of aligning ourselves with those who have negative and harmful qualities.
While we are called to love and show kindness to all people, this verse reminds us to be cautious about the influences that others can have on us. It encourages us to choose friends who possess qualities that align with the character of Christ and will positively impact our own behavior and attitude.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
This verse highlights the importance of surrounding ourselves with godly friends who can sharpen us spiritually. It emphasizes the mutual benefit and growth that can come from relationships where individuals challenge and encourage one another.
While we are called to reach out to non-believers and show them the love of Christ, this verse reminds us of the value of having strong Christian friendships. It emphasizes the impact that our friends can have on our spiritual journey, encouraging us to choose friends who will sharpen and strengthen our faith.
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 describes the blessedness of those who choose not to align themselves with the ways of the wicked. It stresses the importance of delighting in God’s Word and constantly meditating on it.
While we are called to love and share the Gospel with non-believers, this passage reminds us to be cautious about the company we keep. It encourages us to prioritize our relationship with God and immerse ourselves in His Word, guarding against influences that may lead us astray.
Proverbs 14:7
“Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips.”
This verse warns against associating ourselves with foolish individuals. It highlights the lack of wisdom and knowledge that can be found in their words and actions.
While we are called to love and show kindness to all people, this verse encourages us to be discerning in the friendships we cultivate. It reminds us that spending time with those who lack wisdom can hinder our own spiritual growth and understanding.
1 Corinthians 5:11
“But now I am writing to you that you must not associate with anyone who claims to be a brother or sister but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or slanderer, a drunkard or swindler. Do not even eat with such people.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of avoiding close association with believers who persist in unrepentant sin. It underscores the need for accountability and separation from those who walk in a way that contradicts the teachings of Christ.
While we are called to love and show grace to all people, this verse reminds us that there are boundaries to maintain within the body of Christ. It encourages us to uphold righteousness and confront sin, promoting holiness within the Christian community.
Matthew 18:15
“If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.”
This verse highlights the importance of addressing sin within the Christian community. It encourages believers to lovingly confront fellow believers who have strayed from the path of righteousness, seeking restoration and reconciliation.
While we are called to love and forgive others, this verse reminds us that accountability and correction are vital aspects of our relationships as Christians. It urges us to approach one another with humility and a desire to restore each other to the truth of God’s Word.
Proverbs 27:6
“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”
This verse emphasizes the value of true friendship that includes honest and constructive criticism. It highlights the trustworthiness of wounds inflicted by a friend in comparison to the false flattery often offered by an enemy.
While we are called to love and show kindness to all people, this verse reminds us of the importance of having friends who will speak truth into our lives. It encourages us to embrace correction and growth, even if it may be uncomfortable, knowing that true friends have our best interests at heart.
Proverbs 27:9
“Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice.”
This verse speaks to the joy and comfort that can be found in the wise counsel of a true friend. It highlights the valuable role that heartfelt advice plays in fostering strong and meaningful relationships.
While we are called to love and show kindness to all people, this verse encourages us to cultivate friendships based on trust and the willingness to offer and receive heartfelt advice. It reminds us of the importance of having friends who will guide us and provide wisdom in our journey of faith.
Hebrews 3:13
“But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called ‘Today,’ so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of daily encouragement within the body of Christ. It highlights the potential dangers of allowing sin’s deceitfulness to harden our hearts and urges believers to uplift and support one another.
While we are called to love and show kindness to all people, this verse reminds us of our responsibility to strengthen and encourage fellow believers. It encourages us to be intentional in providing support and accountability through our friendships.
Romans 15:14
“I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge and competent to instruct one another.”
This verse acknowledges the ability of believers to instruct and support one another in faith. It affirms the goodness and knowledge present within the Christian community and expresses confidence in the mutual edification of believers.
While we are called to share the Gospel with non-believers, this verse reminds us of the richness and wisdom that can be found among fellow believers. It encourages us to value the insights and instruction that our Christian friendships can provide, recognizing the potential for growth and maturity in our faith.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of mutual encouragement and edification within the body of Christ. It encourages believers to continually uplift and support one another in their faith journeys.
While we are called to reach out to non-believers with the love of Christ, this verse reminds us of the significance of fostering strong Christian friendships. It urges us to be intentional in offering encouragement and building one another up, being a source of strength and support for fellow believers.
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
This verse urges believers to support and care for one another, bearing each other’s burdens. It emphasizes the importance of empathy, compassion, and practical assistance within the Christian community.
While we are called to love and serve all people, this verse reminds us of the unique responsibility we have towards our fellow believers. It encourages us to be actively involved in helping one another through difficult times, embodying the sacrificial love of Christ.
Colossians 3:16
“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.”
This verse underscores the importance of teaching and admonishing one another with wisdom and gratitude. It emphasizes the role of Scripture and worship in fostering spiritual growth and nurturing Christian friendships.
While we are called to share the message of Christ with non-believers, this verse reminds us of the value of fostering deep and meaningful relationships among believers. It encourages us to teach, admonish, and worship together, allowing the Word of God to permeate our friendships and shape our lives.
Proverbs 24:26
“An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips.”
This verse highlights the significance of honesty and integrity within our relationships. It equates an honest answer with a gesture of affection, emphasizing the value of truthfulness and transparency in our interactions.
While we are called to love and show kindness to all people, this verse encourages us to cultivate friendships characterized by trust and sincerity. It reminds us of the importance of speaking honestly and openly with one another, fostering an environment of authenticity and genuine connection.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
This verse highlights the value of surrounding ourselves with godly friends who can sharpen us spiritually. It emphasizes the mutual benefit and growth that can come from relationships where individuals challenge and encourage one another.
While we are called to reach out to non-believers and show them the love of Christ, this verse reminds us of the importance of having strong Christian friendships. It emphasizes the impact that our friends can have on our spiritual journey, encouraging us to choose friends who will sharpen and strengthen our faith.
Acts 2:42
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”
This verse describes the early believers’ commitment to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, sharing meals, and prayer. It underscores the importance of investing in meaningful relationships within the Christian community.
While we are called to love and reach out to non-believers, this verse highlights the significance of nurturing strong connections with fellow believers. It encourages us to prioritize spiritual growth, genuine fellowship, and communal worship in our friendships, fostering an environment of encouragement and support.
Proverbs 13:20
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
This verse emphasizes the influence that our friends can have on us. It encourages us to surround ourselves with wise and godly individuals who will positively impact our lives and help us grow in wisdom and understanding.
While we are called to reach out to non-believers and show them God’s love, this verse reminds us to be discerning in choosing our closest friends. It urges us to spend time with those who will encourage spiritual growth and help us become more like Christ.
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.”
This verse warns against befriending individuals who have a hot temper or are easily angered. It emphasizes the potential dangers of aligning ourselves with those who have negative and harmful qualities.
While we are called to love and show kindness to all people, this verse reminds us to be cautious about the influences that others can have on us. It encourages us to choose friends who possess qualities that align with the character of Christ and will positively impact our own behavior and attitude.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
This verse highlights the importance of surrounding ourselves with godly friends who can sharpen us spiritually. It emphasizes the mutual benefit and growth that can come from relationships where individuals challenge and encourage one another.
While we are called to reach out to non-believers and show them the love of Christ, this verse reminds us of the value of having strong Christian friendships. It emphasizes the impact that our friends can have on our spiritual journey, encouraging us to choose friends who will sharpen and strengthen our faith.
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 describes the blessedness of those who choose not to align themselves with the ways of the wicked. It stresses the importance of delighting in God’s Word and constantly meditating on it.
While we are called to love and share the Gospel with non-believers, this passage reminds us to be cautious about the company we keep. It encourages us to prioritize our relationship with God and immerse ourselves in His Word, guarding against influences that may lead us astray.
Proverbs 14:7
“Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips.”
This verse warns against associating ourselves with foolish individuals. It highlights the lack of wisdom and knowledge that can be found in their words and actions.
While we are called to love and show kindness to all people, this verse encourages us to be discerning in the friendships we cultivate. It reminds us that spending time with those who lack wisdom can hinder our own spiritual growth and understanding.