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What does the Bible say about dating an unbeliever?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that Christians should not pursue marriage or a dating relationship with someone who does not share faith in Christ, because such a union joins lives at the deepest level and can draw the believer away from wholehearted obedience to God. Second Corinthians 6:14-16 warns against being unequally yoked with unbelief, while Deuteronomy 7:3-4 shows the danger of a spouse turning one’s heart from the Lord. First Corinthians 15:33 reminds believers that close companionship shapes character. Christians should flee temptation, seek godly counsel, and trust God’s providence rather than compromise faith, remembering that marriage is to be “only in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 7:39).

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • 1 Corinthians 15:33

    Don't be deceived! "Evil companionships corrupt good morals."

  • 2 Corinthians 6:14

    Don't be unequally yoked with unbelievers, for what fellowship have righteousness and iniquity? Or what communion has light with darkness?

  • 2 Corinthians 6:14-16

    [14] Don't be unequally yoked with unbelievers, for what fellowship have righteousness and iniquity? Or what communion has light with darkness? [15] What agreement has Christ with Belial? Or what portion has a believer with an unbeliever? [16] What agreement has a temple of God with idols? For you are a temple of the living God. Even as God said, "I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they will be my people."

  • 2 Timothy 2:22

    Flee from youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

  • Deuteronomy 7:3-4

    [3] neither shall you make marriages with them; your daughter you shall not give to his son, nor his daughter shall you take to your son. [4] For he will turn away your son from following me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of Yahweh be kindled against you, and he will destroy you quickly.

  • Amos 3:3

    Do two walk together, Unless they have agreed?

  • 1 Corinthians 10:13

    No temptation has taken you except what is common to man. God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted above what you are able, but will with the temptation also make the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

  • 1 Corinthians 7:39

    A wife is bound by law for as long as her husband lives; but if the husband is dead, she is free to be married to whoever she desires, only in the Lord.

  • 2 Corinthians 6:14-15

    [14] Don't be unequally yoked with unbelievers, for what fellowship have righteousness and iniquity? Or what communion has light with darkness? [15] What agreement has Christ with Belial? Or what portion has a believer with an unbeliever?

  • 2 Corinthians 6:15

    What agreement has Christ with Belial? Or what portion has a believer with an unbeliever?

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