What does Ellen White write about...
Adventistische Schriften über: "Challenges with a Partner of a Different Faith"
Answer
Relationships with unbelievers often lead to spiritual decline, as differing goals and loyalties dampen religious zeal and disrupt the prayer life at home. A lasting conflict arises between worldly inclinations and the pursuit of Christ, which frequently causes the believer to sacrifice his principles for the relationship. However, one who is already married and comes to faith thereafter is obligated to meet the partner with special love and fidelity, without abandoning God's commandments.
Spiritual Consequences of an Unequal Union
»The argument is sometimes made that the unbeliever is favorably disposed toward religion and is everything one could wish for in a companion, except in one respect—he is not a Christian. Although the believer’s better judgment may suggest the inappropriateness of a lifelong union with an unbeliever, in nine out of ten cases inclination prevails. Spiritual decline begins the moment the vow is placed on the altar; religious fervor is dampened, and one stronghold after another is demolished until both stand side by side under Satan’s black banner. Even during the wedding celebrations, the spirit of the world triumphs over conscience, faith, and truth. In the new home the hour of prayer is not honored. The bride and groom have chosen each other and have dismissed Jesus.«
Contrasting Life Paths and Goals
»The happiness and well‑being of married life depend on the unity of the parties. How can the fleshly mind harmonize with the mind that is aligned with the sense of Christ? One sows for the flesh and thinks and acts according to the inspirations of his own heart; the other sows for the spirit and strives to suppress selfishness, overcome inclinations, and live in obedience to the Master whose servant he claims to be. Thus there is a continual difference in taste, inclination, and aim. If the believer does not, by steadfastly holding to principles, win the unreconciled, he will, as is far more common, become discouraged and sell his religious principles for the shabby companionship of a person who has no connection to heaven.«
Challenges in Communication
»At first the unbelieving partner in the new relationship may show no resistance; but when the subject of biblical truth is presented for attention and consideration, the feeling arises immediately: “You married me knowing what I am; I do not wish to be disturbed. From now on understand that discussions of your particular views are prohibited.” If the believer were to manifest any special seriousness regarding his faith, it could appear as unfriendliness toward the one who has no interest in the Christian experience.«
Obligations When Converting After Marriage
»One who entered into marriage while still unconverted, through his conversion stands under an even stronger obligation to be faithful to his partner, even if they differ regarding religious belief; nevertheless, God’s demands should be placed above any earthly relationship, even if trials and persecution may follow. With a spirit of love and gentleness this fidelity can have an influence to win the unbelieving side. But the marriage of Christians with the ungodly is forbidden in the Bible. The Lord’s instruction is: “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers.”«
Holding Fast to Faith Despite Opposition
»Should we tell that wife: “You should leave your husband because he does not keep the Sabbath”? No, certainly not. If she was a faithful wife before she accepted the truth, and if she sees in her friends those for whom Christ died, she will try to fulfill her duties with even greater fidelity after she has embraced the truth, so that she may, if possible, lead them to the light. “But,” the question goes, “should the believing wife not abandon her convictions because of her husband’s unbelief?” By no means; for Christ is her Lord and Master. She cannot set aside the demands of the high heaven upon her. The same applies to the believing husband or the child.«
- Marriage with Unbelievers Ellen White
- Faith Differences in Partnership
- Unequal Yoke Biblical Counseling
Original Sources (English)
