Read: 2 Corinthians 6:11-7:1
We are the temple of the living God. (v. 16)
When I was growing up, I heard the term “unequally yoked” used to warn against marrying a partner who wasn’t a Christian. But Paul’s caution against being unequally yoked applies to much more than marriage. While committed Christians are wisely encouraged, when they marry, to seek believing spouses, the implication of 2 Corinthians 6 is far broader. At the heart of Paul’s teaching is his conviction that individuals and communities following Jesus are “the temple of the living God” (v. 16). That is, we have the potential to be the means by which the living God introduces himself to an unbelieving world. The Christian life is a mission. Any close partnership a believer enters will impact that mission.
Jesus has done us the extraordinary honor of partnering with us. He also intends for every one of our partnerships to serve a redemptive purpose. Sometimes Jesus uses us to influence our partners toward saving faith. At other times, he guides us toward partnerships in which a fellow believer multiplies our ministry potential. In any event, everyone we associate with in Jesus’ name has the potential to be associated with Jesus’ name.
If our highest priority is to honor Jesus in the world and thus add weight to his good name, we will choose our partners accordingly. As God enables us, within and through our partnerships, may we embody Jesus’ grace and glory in this world he so loves.
As you pray, ask God to provide fitting partners for every aspect of life.
About the Author
Ben Van Arragon is the Minister of Worship and Leadership at Plymouth Heights Christian Reformed Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He preaches and teaches the Bible in church, online, and anywhere else he has the opportunity.
