Should a Christian join a fraternity / sorority?

Answer

In this article discussing whether a Christian should consider joining fraternities or sororities, we address potential concerns. It is important to note that not all fraternities or sororities necessarily exhibit all the characteristics we mention. As with any decision, it is crucial to thoroughly evaluate a group before committing to it. Research the expectations and lifestyle associated with fraternity or sorority membership.

The initial question to consider is the motivation behind wanting to join a fraternity or sorority. Motives hold significance in the eyes of God “But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.”, (1 Samuel 16:7). Depending on the underlying reasons, different concerns may arise. If the desire to join is fueled by a quest for the best parties, the Bible indicates that such pursuits should be part of one’s past, not a reflection of a believer’s current life “For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries.”, (1 Peter 4:3).

If the aspiration to join a fraternity or sorority stems from a desire for status, it may be an issue of pride. The Bible consistently promotes humility in both lifestyle choices and the selection of companions (Romans 12:16;1 Peter 5:5-7), urging individuals to emulate Christ’s example. Pride is identified as a sin in the Bible and something detested by God (Proverbs 6:16-19; 8:13; 11:2; 16:18; Daniel 4:37; 1 Peter 5:5; 1 John 2:15-17).

Another issue with joining a fraternity or sorority is the exclusivity that such a group represents. Some pledges or oaths bind members to unreasonable levels of devotion, limiting them from assisting members of other groups academically or in other aspects. It is challenging to understand how a Christian can follow the Lord’s directive to aid “the least of these” while pledging loyalty to a group that separates itself from others or views itself as superior to them.

A Christian’s closest relationships should be with fellow Christians and not founded on external connections such as being part of the same fraternity/sorority, attending the same school, sharing the same race or social class, etc. (Galatians 3:28; 1 Corinthians 12:12-13; 12:24-26; Galatians 6:10; John 13:34-35). Most colleges have Christian organizations like InterVarsity, Campus Crusade, and Navigators, along with local churches that offer college ministries to help young individuals discover Christ and mature as His followers. These groups and fellow Christians should be prioritized as the primary circle of friends while in college.

Whom one chooses as their closest companions is a significant theme in Scripture, whether they are fraternity brothers, dorm roommates, or classmates. Here are a few of Scripture’s warnings regarding this matter: “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good character’” «Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. », (1 Corinthians 15:33). “He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm” «He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: But a companion of fools shall be des

“He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.” (Proverbs 13:20). “I am a friend to all who fear you, to all who follow your precepts” “I am a companion of all them that fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts.” (Psalm 119:63). In the end, the question of whether to join a fraternity or sorority is a matter for prayer and following God’s leading in our hearts.