Together in Christ: 'Quit Playing in the Gray' — 2 Corinthians 6:14-15

The image Paul uses here is missed a little by our translation, "Don't team up with those who are unbelievers." While our translation hints at the image, the phrase "unevenly yoked" ^[1] makes the image more specific. Old Testament Law did not allow a donkey and an ox to be yoked together. ^[2] Rather than working in tandem as partners helping each other, they would work at cross purposes because of their anatomical differences. Eventually, this "unevenly yoked" partnership breaks down both animals.

Paul is clear: our closest relationships, our most important partnerships, our enduring alliances, and our deepest commitments must be made with people who share the same values and answer to the same Lord! Good and evil cannot be partners. We must stay far away from and flee every hint of evil and immorality. ^[3] We can't be in close partnership, intimate relationships, or abiding alliances with those who will lead us away from our Lord. We should seek to join with other believers who will build us up and encourage us in the Lord. Unfortunately, many of Jesus' disciples have ignored this command and have been led away from their wholehearted devotion to Jesus.