Out of last night’s discussion, principles from Ephesians 5:3-21 in being friends with unbelievers
1. Though it might seem oddly specific for this discussion, sexual standards are a fault line between Christians and non-Christians. In this regard, Christians are to think and behave in the light, keep Christ’s commands. In other words, you should have a scriptural, well reasoned sexual ethic even if your friends don’t.
2. Alongside #1, Christians should say no to sexual banter: dirty jokes, flirtatious sexual innuendo etc.
3. Though from far-away it might be surprising, simply following #s 1 and 2 above will go far in your keeping company with non Christians with integrity.
4. An overall thoughtfulness/ caution is required with non-Christian friendships. There needs to be an especial deliberation about how to please Christ and make the best use of time. How even in these friendships are to produce “all that is good and right and true.” (This is a general point that needs expansion!)
5. We shouldn’t squirm under the notion that exposing the darkness of our unbelieving friends is God’s commission for us.
6. However, “exposing” won’t mainly (or at all?) occur directly… but rather in our faith-full, obedient-to-Christ presence. For example, when someone throws a dirty joke at us it should fall to the ground as something obviously cheap and shallow…shown up as the darkness it is.
7. Being thankful – being a person who has habits of a) believing that a good God is in charge and b) recognizing the good he is doing around and in you and throughout the world – is crucial in being light before a world that tends toward selfishness and complaint.
8. Your celebrations alongside your friends should be in the Spirit – directed by the truth and commands of Jesus – and so should never go the debauched route. Getting drunk is always a no-go.
9. In order to be a constructive friend to non-believers, you should be rooted in a) the habit of music-full worship with the church and b) overall taking your brothers and sisters in Christ very seriously, maintaining strong relationships with them. IF YOUR NON-CHRISTIAN FRIENDSHIPS ARE TAKING YOU AWAY FROM THE CHURCH, ALL KINDS OF ALARMS SHOULD BE GOING OFF.
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