Imagine, if you will, that you are on the verge of building your very first house. You have meticulously gone through the various sources for blueprints and plans, and have found the perfect house. Every detail has been given attention, and you are excited to see all of your planning come to fruition. After several months, the time has come to move into your home. When you arrive, you find that it is nothing like what you planned, and described (through blueprints) for the contractor!  Upon further examination, and a discussion with the contractor, you find that he has taken it upon himself to make “improvements” to your approved design! Can you imagine how angry, and disappointed you would be if you found yourself in such a situation?

As an evangelist, I often have discussions with young people about the relationships that they are involved in, whether it be friendships or dating. As I am now the "old guy" in these discussions, I have often run into disagreements with these young folks. The question often comes up: Is it ok for us to date non-Christians? Unfortunately, when that question comes up, it is usually too late—they are already in such a relationship! I have had disagreements with young people, and also with their parents over this important question. The practice is usually being defended under such premises as:

• They are in love! How can that not be right?
• They are going to convert the person they are dating…if not now, after they are married!
• There aren't any Christians close by to date…
• They aren't getting serious…
• They'll be a good influence on those around them…