What does the Bible say about a Christian dating a non-Christian?

Scripture is fairly direct here: "Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness?" (2 Corinthians 6:14). In the context of marriage specifically, Paul instructs believers to marry "only in the Lord" (1 Corinthians 7:39).

This isn't about superiority — it's about compatibility at the deepest level. Marriage requires shared values, purpose, and spiritual direction; a mismatched foundation here creates real strain, especially around raising children, handling money, and facing hardship.

If you're a believer currently in this situation, the wisest step is usually to pray, seek counsel from mature believers, and be honest about where the relationship is headed before it deepens further.