Balancing Act

2 Corinthians 6

14 Don’t team up with those who are unbelievers. How can righteousness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness? 15 What harmony can there be between Christ and the devil? How can a believer be a partner with an unbeliever? 16 And what union can there be between God’s temple and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God said:
“I will live in them
and walk among them.
I will be their God,
and they will be my people.
17 Therefore, come out from among unbelievers,
and separate yourselves from them, says the LORD.
Don’t touch their filthy things,
and I will welcome you.
18 And I will be your Father,
and you will be my sons and daughters,
says the LORD Almighty.”

There’s a balancing act that must go into place here. I absolutely believe that Christ followers have no business teaming up with non-believers. Be that in business ventures, or in marriage! We who follow Christ have no business teaming up with those who follow satan! Period. I have told students for decades that they have no business dating a non-Christian, and I stand by that advice, as I believe this passage clearly supports my position. However, I also do not want to swing so far to that side that Christ followers would never have anything to do with non-believers. Some would take this passage and say, “see, we shouldn’t even talk to the pagans.” Excuse me…how can we be salt and light if we totally separate ourselves from non-believers? Partner with them? Never? Engage them in life situations where we can let Jesus shine forth through us? You betcha! Walk that balance beam for Jesus, baby!