Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.” – 1 Corinthians 15:33
Bible Verses About Befriending Non Believers
Love and Acceptance
When we think about befriending non-believers, we recognize the importance of love and acceptance. As followers of Christ, we’re called to reach out and share God’s love with all people, regardless of their beliefs. It is crucial for us to cultivate friendships rooted in love, showing compassion and understanding towards everyone. Love does not discriminate; it invites everyone to experience kindness and warmth. In doing this, we create opportunities to share our faith without expecting people to change immediately. Let us open our hearts and carry the love of Christ into our friendships with non-believers.
John 13:34
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” – John 13:34
Romans 15:7
“Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” – Romans 15:7
Matthew 5:46-47
“If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?” – Matthew 5:46-47
1 John 4:19
“We love because he first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
Building Genuine Relationships
Friendship should be about building genuine relationships, not just fulfilling a duty to share the gospel. When we befriend those who are not part of our faith community, we have an opportunity to learn from them and share our lives. It’s essential to approach these friendships with authenticity and openness, allowing trust to grow over time. As we invest in these relationships, we can create a supportive environment where meaningful conversations about faith can arise naturally and in a loving manner.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17
Colossians 4:5
“Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.” – Colossians 4:5
1 Peter 3:15
“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” – 1 Peter 3:15
Philippians 1:3
“I thank my God every time I remember you.” – Philippians 1:3
Hebrews 10:24
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24
The Importance of Understanding
Understanding is a vital aspect as we befriend non-believers. It involves listening to their stories, learning of their struggles, and walking alongside them. When we take the time to understand people, we show them that we genuinely care. This could be a vital aspect of our witness. By being compassionate and empathetic, we can present the Gospel truth in a way that resonates with their hearts and minds. Let’s show people that faith can indeed coexist with loving friendships.
James 1:19
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” – James 1:19
Proverbs 18:13
“To answer before listening—that is folly and shame.” – Proverbs 18:13
Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” – Romans 12:10
2 Timothy 2:24-25
“And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.” – 2 Timothy 2:24-25
Philippians 2:4
“Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” – Philippians 2:4
Sharing the Gospel Naturally
As we befriend non-believers, sharing the Gospel naturally should be our aim. We should not feel forced to preach but rather let our lives reflect God’s love and grace. Engaging in spiritual conversations becomes easier when we let our actions speak for themselves. When we let people see the goodness of God in our lives, they may feel encouraged to inquire about our faith. We create an environment of openness, allowing our friendships to be a powerful tool for sharing the good news.
Matthew 28:19
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” – Matthew 28:19
Acts 1:8
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” – Acts 1:8
1 Corinthians 9:22
“To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.” – 1 Corinthians 9:22
1 Thessalonians 2:8
“We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.” – 1 Thessalonians 2:8
Matthew 10:16
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.” – Matthew 10:16
Our Influence on Others
As we befriend non-believers, we should aim to have a positive, Christ-like influence on them. Our character and actions can significantly impact those around us. When we embody the fruits of the Spirit, our friends may notice the difference and be drawn to our faith. By demonstrating love, joy, peace, kindness, and faithfulness, we reflect a beautiful picture of who Christ is, which can lead others towards Him. Let’s strive to be examples of God’s love and grace in our friendships.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” – Galatians 5:22-23
Matthew 5:14
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” – Matthew 5:14
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
2 Corinthians 5:20
“We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us.” – 2 Corinthians 5:20
1 Timothy 4:12
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” – 1 Timothy 4:12
Prayer and Spiritual Support
Being friends with non-believers also means supporting them through prayer. We can pray for their needs and ask God to work in their hearts. The power of prayer cannot be underestimated, and we shouldn’t shy away from bringing our friends to God. As we uphold them in prayer, we allow God’s grace to touch their lives. Through prayer, we express our care and commitment to walking alongside them on their journey. Let’s commit to interceding for our friends, believing that God is at work.
James 5:16
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” – James 5:16
Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6-7
1 Timothy 2:1
“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people.” – 1 Timothy 2:1
Colossians 4:3
“And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ.” – Colossians 4:3
Matthew 21:22
“If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” – Matthew 21:22
Final Thoughts
As we consider befriending non-believers, it becomes clear that building relationships based on love, understanding, and support is crucial. We have the opportunity to shine a light in their lives and reflect God’s love through our actions. By expressing kindness and acceptance, we create an environment where meaningful conversations about faith can flourish. Remember, our friendships can lead to sharing the Gospel in a natural and genuine way without feeling pressured or forced.
Let us embrace the call to love our neighbors, regardless of their belief systems. We are all on a journey and have the capacity to influence one another positively. Through friendship and prayer, we can show non-believers God’s grace and love, inviting them into a relationship with Him.
If you want to explore more about how to navigate relationships, consider checking out these insightful resources on love and acceptance and acceptance of others. May our lives reflect the goodness of God as we befriend those who need His love!