2 Corinthians 6 - 6.17.25
SCRIPTURE: 2 Corinthians 6:14
“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?”
OBSERVATION
Using the term “yoked together” is something some might not understand. A yoke is a device placed around the neck of two oxen that connects them for use in plowing fields or other heavy work. When two oxen are connected together, they both must perform the same task and can’t go opposite ways. The image of a yoke and oxen then explains why the scripture compares righteousness and wickedness, and then light and darkness. It would be impossible for either righteousness and wickedness or light and darkness to be connected together. They are both on opposite ends of the spectrum. There’s no way they can be connected and function properly.
APPLICATION
Some of you might know my story that I’ve shared in the past of a bad business decision I made with an unbelieving relative. I knew this scripture very well but figured I would put in place various safety measures that would protect me. Well, I learned a valuable lesson to NEVER second guess or think you can somehow work your way around any scripture. It won’t work and you’ll regret it.
This one scripture is very emphatic with a firm admonition: Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. This is not saying we can’t be around unbelievers because then how would we be able to witness to others or live in the world? It’s basically saying don’t be in a close relationship or situation where you’re deeply connected with unbelievers. Your faith and beliefs will be compromised in one way or another.
“Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.” 1 Corinthians 15:33
In addition to relationships, this scripture covers “yoking” yourself with worshiping idols, filling your life / mind with ungodly images or content or anything that can lead you down the wrong path. Remember a yoke will force you to follow where the other is leading.
In contrast, Matthew 11:29 – 30 talks about the yoke of Jesus “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Is there anything in your life that you’re yoked with that is compromising or keeping you from following Christ? Take some time, in prayer, and ask the Lord to guide you on the “yokes” in your life. Seek counsel with a trusted believer or with Pastor Levi or Pastor Katie if there’s a yoke that you need guidance or help to work through. Today can also be the day you take steps to take up your yoke with Jesus because His yoke is easy and light.
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for your Word which provides amazing and important guidance in life. Help me to be watchful of all the yokes in life. Forgive me, Lord, for the times I’ve been yoked with something that is opposite of you. Your yoke is all I need – to guide me, direct me, and give me peace that you’re leading me in the right path. How blessed we are to have your yoke – that is easy and the burden is light. Praise God for all the ways you care for us. In Jesus name, Amen!
- Mary Oberg
