Belief in Jesus Christ and Eternal Life: Navigating Relationships and Living Together
The Bible emphatically states that eternal life can only be attained through belief in Jesus Christ and his sacrifice. As a Christian, how do you feel when living with someone who does not share the same hope in eternal life?
The Importance of Belief in Christ
According to Jesus, eternal life is 'whosoever of any of us is to know the only true God and we can know him by his Word, who God sent is this same Jesus Christ' (John 17:3). This verse highlights the central role of Jesus in gaining eternal life. Similarly, 2 Corinthians 5:19 testifies, 'To wit that God was in Jesus Christ reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them.' These passages reinforce the notion that belief in Jesus Christ is crucial for eternal life.
The Bible's Perspective on Eternal Life
John 6:25–29 further elucidates the importance of belief in Jesus Christ. Jesus emphasizes that true eternal life comes from believing in him and his divinely given gifts. He teaches, 'The work of God is this: that you believe in the one he has sent' (John 6:29). Thus, the focus must be on belief and trust in Christ, not works or other human efforts.
Christian Relationships and Eternal Life
Living with someone who does not share the same belief in eternal life presents unique challenges. As a Christian, it is essential to understand the importance of Jesus Christ in your life and how this belief affects your relationship with others.
1. Unequal Yolk in Relationships
2 Corinthians 6:14 states, 'Be not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness and what communion hath light with darkness?' This verse warns against being 'unequally yoked' with unbelievers. In a relationship setting, this could mean living with someone who does not believe in Jesus Christ. While being ‘unequally yoked’ can lead to significant spiritual struggle, Paul also provides guidance in 1 Corinthians 7:12–15.
Living with an Unbelieving Spouse
Paul offers practical advice for married couples where one partner believes in Jesus Christ, and the other does not. He suggests that if the unbelieving partner is willing to live together, the believing spouse should not force a separation. However, if the unbelieving partner insists on living separately, it is better to do so, as it preserves a peaceful relationship and potentially allows the unbelieving spouse to consider the truth of the gospel.
1 Corinthians 7:14 is particularly instructive: 'For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband. Else were your children unclean, but now are they holy. But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart: a brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace. …'
Practical Considerations in Shared Living Spaces
When living in a shared space, such as a hotel or an apartment, the principles from Scripture still apply. For instance, 1 Corinthians 6:18 instructs, 'Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body, but he that commiteth fornication sinneth against his own body.' This verse emphasizes the importance of purity and avoiding sin, which should guide living arrangements.
Similarly, engaging in activities like drug use, which are against biblical principles, should also be avoided in shared living spaces. Being a Christian means maintaining a proper lifestyle and setting good examples for others, including unbelievers.
Biblical Mandate for Community and Belief
While the Bible encourages believers to be in community with each other (Matthew 18:20), it also acknowledges that some relationships may not align with biblical teachings. Jesus does not take us out of the world, but he is present with us and provides guidance through his Word. As Christians, we are called to suffer sometimes because of our faith, just as Jesus did (Philippians 1:29).
In conclusion, while living with someone who does not believe in Jesus Christ can be challenging, understanding and upholding biblical principles can help navigate these situations. Belief in Jesus Christ is central to gaining eternal life, and our relationships should reflect this belief.