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The Adventist Home
reason. As his self-confidence increased, he sought to carry out the
Lord’s purpose in his own way....
Many professed Christians think, like Solomon, that they may
unite with the ungodly because their influence over those who are in
[65]
the wrong will be beneficial; but too often they themselves, entrapped
and overcome, yield their sacred faith, sacrifice principle, and separate
themselves from God. One false step leads to another, till at last they
place themselves where they cannot hope to break the chains that bind
them
The Plea—“He Is Favorable to Religion.”—The plea is some-
times 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; religious 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
The Change Is Wrought in the Believing One—At first the un-
believing one may make no show of opposition in the new relation;
but when the subject of Bible truth is presented for attention and con-
sideration, 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 earnestness in
regard to his faith, it might seem like unkindness toward the one who
has no interest in the Christian experience.
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The believing one reasons that in his new relation he must concede
somewhat to the companion of his choice. Social, worldly amusements
are patronized. At first there is great reluctance of feeling in doing
this, but the interest in the truth becomes less and less, and faith is
exchanged for doubt and unbelief. No one would have suspected that
7
Fundamentals of Christian Education, 498-500
.
8
Testimonies For The Church 4, 505
.