The Importance of Finding a Christian LDS Spouse: A Foundation of Shared Faith and Values

By Bobby Darvish, Iranian-American Ex-Muslim, Former Vegan, Former Democrat, Former Socialist, Former CAIR-Columbus Executive Director, Former Muslim Forum of Utah President, Former Pagan, Christian Conservative LDS Priest 

In the journey of life, marriage is one of the most significant and sacred commitments a person can make. For Christians, and particularly members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), choosing a spouse who shares their faith is not merely a preference—it is a vital aspect of ensuring a strong, unified, and spiritually centered marriage. The Bible and LDS teachings emphasize the importance of marrying within the faith to uphold shared values, strengthen family unity, and create a home centered on Jesus Christ.

Biblical and LDS Teachings on Marrying Within the Faith

The Bible consistently warns against being “unequally yoked” with non-believers, emphasizing that spiritual unity is essential in marriage. In 2 Corinthians 6:14, Paul warns:

"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?"

This passage highlights that a deep spiritual divide between spouses can lead to conflict, misunderstanding, and a weakening of faith. The LDS faith further strengthens this biblical principle by emphasizing eternal marriage as a key doctrine. In Doctrine and Covenants 132:19, the Lord declares that marriages performed by proper priesthood authority can last beyond mortality:

“If a man marry a wife by my word, which is my law, and by the new and everlasting covenant, … it shall be of full force when they are out of the world.”

For Latter-day Saints, marriage is not just a temporary arrangement—it is an eternal covenant that is meant to endure in the Celestial Kingdom. Marrying outside the faith not only disrupts this eternal goal but can also lead to challenges in raising children within the Church and maintaining an LDS-centered household.

The Power of Shared Values in Marriage

A Christian LDS marriage is built on shared values that provide a strong foundation for love, trust, and unity. These include:

1. Commitment to God and Christ-Centered Living

   • When both spouses are Christian and LDS, their faith in Jesus Christ serves as the guiding force in their marriage. They pray together, read scripture together, and attend church together, strengthening their spiritual connection.
   • As Christ said in Matthew 7:24-25, a house built on a strong foundation will withstand life’s trials:

     “Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.”

2. Temple Marriage and Eternal Goals

   • An LDS couple sealed in the temple is working towards exaltation together, ensuring that their marriage extends beyond this life.
   • Marrying outside the faith can lead to spiritual disconnection, as one partner may not share the goal of attending the temple, living the Word of Wisdom, or following the commandments.

3. Unity in Raising Children in the Gospel

   • Proverbs 22:6 states:

     “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”

   • Raising children in a home where both parents believe in and practice the same faith ensures consistency in teaching gospel principles.
   • Children are less likely to be confused when both parents are united in prayer, church attendance, and scripture study.

4. Stronger Emotional and Moral Support

   • A Christian LDS spouse will understand the spiritual struggles and challenges their partner faces, offering faith-based support.
   • They can counsel together using scriptural and prophetic guidance, rather than relying on secular ideologies that may conflict with gospel principles.

Challenges of an Interfaith Marriage

While some interfaith marriages succeed, they often require greater effort and compromise, which can lead to spiritual and emotional struggles:

• Differing Religious Priorities: A non-LDS spouse may not value attending church, tithing, or temple worship, leading to tension.
• Difficulties in Teaching Children: Parents with different faiths may struggle to agree on religious upbringing, which can create confusion for children.
• Missed Blessings of Temple Marriage: A spouse who is not LDS may not be sealed for eternity, leading to heartbreak for a believing partner.

Conclusion: Choosing a Spouse with Shared Faith Leads to a Stronger Marriage

For Christians, especially Latter-day Saints, choosing a spouse who shares their faith is one of the most important decisions they will make. A marriage built on Christian LDS principles fosters spiritual unity, eternal goals, and a Christ-centered home. By marrying within the faith, couples ensure that their commitment to God and each other remains strong, providing stability, joy, and a foundation built on eternal love and divine purpose.

Citations

1. The Holy Bible, King James Version – 2 Corinthians 6:14, Matthew 7:24-25, Proverbs 22:6.
2. Doctrine and Covenants – Section 132:19.
3. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – Teachings on Eternal Marriage and Temple Sealing, www.churchofjesuschrist.org.