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Testimonies for the Church Volume 4
They are lost to Christ. They may for a time make an effort to live a
Christian life, but all their strivings are made against a steady influence
in the opposite direction. Once it was a privilege and joy to them to
speak of their faith and hope; but they become unwilling to mention
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the subject, knowing that the one with whom they have linked their
destiny takes no interest in it. As the result, faith in the precious truth
dies out of the heart, and Satan insidiously weaves about them a web
of skepticism.
It is carrying that which is lawful to excess that makes it a grievous
sin. Those who profess the truth trample on the will of God in marrying
unbelievers; they lose His favor and make bitter work for repentance.
The unbelieving may possess an excellent moral character; but the fact
that he or she has not answered to the claims of God, and has neglected
so great salvation, is sufficient reason why such a union should not
be consummated. The character of the unbelieving may be similar to
that of the young man to whom Jesus addressed the words, “One thing
thou lackest;” that was the one thing needful.
The plea is sometimes made that the unbeliever is favorable to
religion and is all that could be desired in a companion except in
one thing—he is not a Christian. Although the better judgment of
the believer may suggest the impropriety of a union for life with an
unbeliever, yet, in nine cases out of ten, inclination triumphs. Spiritual
declension commences the moment the vow is made at the altar; reli-
gious fervor is dampened, and one stronghold after another is broken
down, until both stand side by side under the black banner of Satan.
Even in the festivities of the wedding, the spirit of the world triumphs
against conscience, faith, and truth. In the new home the hour of prayer
is not respected. The bride and bridegroom have chosen each other
and dismissed Jesus.
At first the unbelieving one may make no show of opposition in
the new relation; but when the subject of Bible truth is presented for
attention and consideration, the feeling at once arises: “You married
me, knowing that I was what I am; I do not wish to be disturbed. From
henceforth let it be understood that conversation upon your peculiar
views is to be interdicted.” If the believer should manifest any special
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earnestness in regard to his faith, it might seem like unkindness toward
the one who has no interest in the Christian experience.