Quick Read #22: Unequally Yoked

Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship has righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion has light with darkness? (2Cor 6:14)

When I looked again at how the churches use this Scripture, it is mainly applied to marriage; most noticeable in the Catholic Church, which forbade marriage between Catholics and Protestants unless there was a conversion to the Catholic faith. And while they are more relaxed today, so-called mixed marriages are still frowned upon. This position continues to be upheld within other denominations; Mormons, for instance, pursue conversion to their belief with some vigour. It is used primarily as a means of accord, which does have a measure of logic when we consider a house divided.

However, the majority appear to adopt this scripture for other matters like business and political leanings, and in creating blocs of influence domestically and globally. And yet, Paul was preaching on spiritual integrity, which has nothing to do with these secular concerns where we see it most often applied. Again we see God’s Word misused.

But there is another issue to consider; what part does a believer have with an unbeliever (2Cor 6:15) as it underscores the mistaken idea the Christian faith sits well with the Jewish when it cannot. So where is the division? It is found in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, which completed the Prophets, a work refused by Jewish orthodoxy and other beliefs. True Christianity must stand apart, free of adultery and secure in its conviction.

Therefore come out from among them and be separated, says the LORD, and do not touch an unclean thing. And I will receive you and will be a Father to you, and you shall be my sons and daughters, says the LORD God Almighty. (2Cor 6:17-18)

The Faith of Jesus is an unbroken inheritance from Abraham, Jacob and David to the LORD made flesh; an inheritance spoken of in the Gospels and Letters of the New Testament. So, what does this mean for those who support non-Christian ideals, for example, Zionism? Does it sit well with Paul’s teaching? The short answer is no when they serve opposing dominions under different laws.

Similar can be said of those attending Trinitarian Churches knowing though their own studies; Jesus is Father, Son and Holy Spirit, a clear example of being unequally yoked to church belief. But now Jesus is calling us to a pure faith undefiled. Our equal yoking is with the LORD Jesus Christ when we believe on Him and keep His Commands.

Come out of her, my people, that you may not be partakers of her sins, and that you receive not of her plagues. (Rev 18:4)

Paul’s second letter is an account of his spiritual labours; directions about collections for the church, and the defence of his apostolical character, which had been under challenge since his earlier epistle. It is therefore no surprise to see him raise the topic of being unequally yoked in this letter, but within its framework laid down the theme of reconciliation, not only in terms of settlement between men, but by implication, the reconciliation wrought through Christ for all. And why he laboured the point the Temple of God must be free of impurity, while leaving unsaid no man can serve two masters.

So it is appropriate to end here with Paul’s closing words to the Church at Corinth, words we could do well to follow. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you. Greet one another with a holy kiss…

In love and peace as always,

James