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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? 

Paul wants the Corinthians to know that there are boundaries surrounding the behaviors of the covenant community.  As we have discussed in previous chapters, most of Corinth consisted of individuals who worshipped multiple gods; idolatry and sexual immorality were a part of the pagan existence.  Now, people are coming to know Jesus and entering the Corinthian church.  This requires a huge shift in thinking about what is acceptable.  Paul continues to teach that while they have freedom in Christ, that is not an excuse for behavior that displeases God.  They are called to holiness.

It is from that place that Paul tells the Corinthian believers not to be yoked with unbelievers.  A yoke refers to the wooden crosspiece that was fastened over the necks of two oxen and attached to a plow or cart that they are to pull.  When one animal is yoked to another, generally the stronger animal can help make up for the inadequacies of the weaker animal.  Think about Jesus' words in Matthew 11:28-30, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”  When we are yoked together with Jesus, he helps lighten our load and provides rest for our souls. 

But Paul is saying NOT to be yoked with those who are not Christ-followers.  As in the reference from Matthew, being yoked with someone suggests a close, almost intimate relationship.  Do not yoke yourself with someone whose values, attitudes, and behaviors are fundamentally different from your own.  Paul is referencing marriage but also other relationships.  Do not bind yourself to people who have a worldview that is opposed to your own. 

I want to be clear; Paul is not saying that Christians aren't to associate with unbelievers.  Frequently, Paul encourages believers to eat with those who don't yet believe and build relationships with those who need to know the hope of Christ.  But having an unbelieving friend or acquaintance is totally different from an unbelieving spouse, business partner, or bestie.  Set your boundaries.

Let's pray...Lord Jesus, We give you our whole lives, including our relationships.  Guide us to those people to whom you want us to minister and help us be fruitful.  Guide us to those with whom you want us to build relationships and help us be good ambassadors for you.  But also help us know when where we need to set our boundaries.  We need you. Guide us, lead us, direct us.  In Your Name, Amen.