How does 1 Corinthians 7:13 guide a Christian married to an unbeliever? Setting the Scene “...if a woman has an unbelieving husband and he is willing to live with her, she must not divorce him.” (1 Corinthians 7:13) Paul writes directly to believers wondering what to do when faith divides a home. His counsel is clear: the Christian spouse stays. Why the Marriage Remains Sacred • Marriage is God’s covenant design (Genesis 2:24). Salvation does not cancel that covenant. • Divorce grieves God’s heart—“‘I hate divorce,’ says the LORD” (Malachi 2:16). • The unbelieving partner’s willingness to stay signals an open door for God to work (1 Corinthians 7:14). The Sanctifying Influence • “For the unbelieving husband is sanctified through his wife… otherwise your children would be unclean, but now they are holy.” (1 Corinthians 7:14) • Your presence brings daily exposure to gospel light (Matthew 5:14-16). • God often wins hearts through consistent, Christ-like conduct—“wives, submit… so that even if some refuse to believe the word, they may be won without words by the conduct of their wives” (1 Peter 3:1-2). Living Peaceably Within the Marriage • Aim for peace: “If it is possible… live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18). • Guard your speech: “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt” (Colossians 4:6). • Show sacrificial love patterned after Christ (Ephesians 5:1-2). Practical Ways to Obey 1 Corinthians 7:13 1. Stay committed unless the unbeliever departs (1 Corinthians 7:15). 2. Cultivate a vibrant personal walk with Christ—scripture, prayer, fellowship. 3. Demonstrate respect and kindness in daily routines. 4. Avoid nagging or coercion about spiritual matters; let actions echo your words. 5. Engage in corporate worship and keep children exposed to biblical truth. 6. Seek wise counsel when tensions rise (Proverbs 15:22). 7. Trust God for the spouse’s salvation; salvation is the Lord’s work (John 6:44). When the Unbeliever Chooses to Leave • “If the unbeliever separates, let him separate. The brother or the sister is not bound in such cases.” (1 Corinthians 7:15) • You are called to peace; you are not responsible for their decision to depart. Hope to Hold Onto • God hears the cries of a believing spouse (Psalm 34:15). • No situation is beyond His reach—“With God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26). • Your steadfast love mirrors Christ’s pursuit of the lost (Luke 19:10). Remain, love, and let the gospel shine through every ordinary moment. God promises that faithful, patient obedience never returns empty. |
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