Should a Christian join a fraternity or sorority? This is a question many Christian college students face. There are arguments on both sides of this issue. Let’s look at what the Bible says that may apply.
Arguments For Joining
Here are some common arguments for why a Christian may want to join a fraternity or sorority:
- It provides a built-in community and friend group on campus.
- It allows you to live with like-minded people who share common interests and values.
- It gives opportunities for leadership, service, and personal growth.
- It creates valuable connections and networking opportunities.
- It continues a family tradition or legacy.
These benefits should not be dismissed lightly. Having a community you belong to and building life-long bonds can be very valuable during college and beyond. If the organization’s values align with your Christian faith, it can strengthen and enrich your college experience.
Cautions About Joining
However, there are also important cautions to consider from a Christian perspective when pondering joining a Greek organization:
- Many fraternities and sororities have a reputation for heavy drinking and partying. This could expose you to unhealthy peer pressure and temptations.
- Hazing practices in some organizations may conflict with Christian morals.
- The time commitments and financial costs can take away from other priorities.
- Exclusivity based on social status or appearance can promote elitist attitudes incompatible with Christian humility and inclusion.
- You may face pressure to conform to values opposed to your faith.
As the Bible says, “Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33). We must be cautious about any group that might negatively impact our walk with God. Our highest priority is living to please and honor Christ.
Biblical Principles to Consider
Scripture does not directly address fraternities and sororities, but there are some relevant biblical principles we can apply:
- Stewardship – Is this the wisest use of my time, resources, and energy? “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms” (1 Peter 4:10).
- Christ-centered identity – Am I defining myself by earthly groups or my identity in Christ? “You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession” (1 Peter 2:9).
- Godly influences – Will this association enhance or hinder my walk with God? “Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33).
- Christian witness – Does this provide a platform to share my faith or compromise my testimony? “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
- Lordship of Christ – Does this detract from making Christ preeminent in all things? “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Colossians 3:17).
Evaluating an organization based on these principles can help reveal potential benefits or pitfalls.
Questions to Ask
Here are some questions Christian students should ask when considering joining a fraternity or sorority:
- What are the organization’s values and do they align with my Christian beliefs?
- Is the fraternity or sorority supportive and respectful of my faith?
- How much time would be required and would it detract from other priorities?
- Is this organization known for any inappropriate or risky activities?
- Would I feel pressured to compromise my convictions if I joined?
- Are there opportunities to live out my faith through leadership and service?
- Will this provide a positive community that supports spiritual growth?
Asking current members their perspective on these types of questions can be very insightful.
Seeking God’s Leading
More important than any argument for or against joining a Greek organization is sincerely seeking God’s will through prayer.
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you” (James 1:5).
We should humbly ask the Lord to guide and direct us, not relying on our own understanding (see Proverbs 3:5-6). God knows us intimately and cares about every detail of our lives. He will make our paths straight if we acknowledge Him and listen for His voice.
Joining a fraternity or sorority has the potential for good or bad depending on the individual organization and the character of your own walk with God. As Christians, our highest aim is living in a way that brings glory to Christ – whether we join a Greek organization or not. If we are fully surrendered to God’s will, He will lead us down the best path.
Questions to Ponder
Here are some reflective questions for Christian students to prayerfully ponder:
- Am I pursuing God’s kingdom and righteousness first in my life or looking to please people? (Matthew 6:33)
- Is my identity rooted in Christ or dependent on earthly associations?
- What convictions would I be unwilling to compromise if pressured?
- Is God inviting me to say “yes” or “no” to joining a fraternity/sorority at this point in my life?
- What do trusted friends and mentors in my faith think about this decision?
- Am I willing to follow God’s guidance on this even if it means missing out or disappointment?
Taking time to humbly reflect and listen for God’s direction is always wise.
Seeking Accountability
If after prayer and counsel you do decide to join a Greek organization, it can be very helpful to have other mature Christians who will keep you accountable. You could consider:
- Joining with several Christian friends who share your values.
- Meeting regularly for prayer, Bible study, and spiritual encouragement.
- Finding a campus ministry or church group to plug into.
- Setting clear boundaries and being accountable for maintaining them.
- Asking friends to support you if you face any unhealthy pressures.
Surrounding yourself with strong believers provides invaluable support for following Christ in any environment that presents moral challenges.
Being a Light
Lastly, remember that God may use you powerfully right where He has placed you. Your character, convictions and care for others can profoundly impact people around you. Daniel in the Old Testament was one who stood for God even under strong cultural pressure (Daniel 1). Wherever He leads you, He can help you shine for Him!
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
In summary, deciding whether to join a fraternity or sorority is ultimately a personal matter between you and God. Seek His wisdom and direction through prayer. Move forward only with peace that this aligns with your Christian convictions and calling. Surround yourself with godly accountability. And focus on glorifying Christ wherever He leads you!
