“Do not be deceived: Bad company corrupts good character.” – 1 Corinthians 15:33
Bible Verses About Being Friends With Unbelievers
Choosing Our Companions Wisely
In our relationships, it is crucial that we recognize the significance of choosing our companions wisely, especially when it comes to being friends with unbelievers. While it is important to maintain connections with those who do not share our faith, we must do so with caution. Our friendships can influence our walk with God either positively or negatively. We have a responsibility to ensure that our close friends are those who uplift our faith and inspire us to grow spiritually. We are called to be the light of the world, and sometimes this includes interacting with those who do not yet believe. However, we must ensure that our faith remains strong, reflecting God’s love and goodness in those friendships.
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be deceived: Bad company corrupts good character.” – 1 Corinthians 15:33
Proverbs 12:26
“The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.” – Proverbs 12:26
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.” – Proverbs 22:24-25
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?” – 2 Corinthians 6:14
Psalm 1:1
“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.” – Psalm 1:1
Reaching Out with Love
As believers, we have a call to reach out to those who do not know Christ with love and understanding. Building friendships with unbelievers can be a powerful way to share the Gospel. By treating others with kindness and grace, we can showcase the love of Jesus in real and tangible ways. Our authentic friendships allow us to genuinely share our faith when the opportunity arises. We should remember that the goal of our friendships with unbelievers is not to compromise our beliefs but to reflect Christ’s love and invite them into a relationship with Him.
Matthew 5:14-16
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:14-16
Colossians 4:5-6
“Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” – Colossians 4:5-6
Luke 19:10
“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” – Luke 19:10
Matthew 28:19-20
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” – Matthew 28:19-20
1 Peter 3:15
“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” – 1 Peter 3:15
Influence and Accountability
Friendships have a unique ability to influence our hearts and minds. Being friends with unbelievers offers us the opportunity to foster a spirit of accountability, allowing us to encourage one another in our respective journeys. We must be aware that while we can have a positive impact on them, they can also influence us. Let us cultivate friendships that inspire us to grow closer to God while serving as loving witnesses to those who do not know Him yet. It is essential that we support one another in our journeys towards faith, even amid those who are still exploring their belief.
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another