LORD’S DAY, JUNE 25
1 Corinthians 7:12-16
1 Corinthians 7:39

"…only in the Lord."

CONCERNING MIXED MARRIAGES

It is a sin for a Christian to marry an unbeliever. The Bible teaches that Christians must only marry those who are "in the Lord" (1 Cor 7:39; 2 Cor 6:14). There may be believers who were married to unbelievers before they were converted. How then must the believer respond? Should he seek to be divorced from the unbelieving spouse?

Paul taught that the believer was not to initiate a divorce, so long as the spouse was willing to continue in the marriage. The only time when a divorce is allowed is when the unbelieving spouse actively seeks to break the marriage bond. In such a situation, the believing spouse is then not bound (i.e. under no obligation) to keep the marriage. Till that happens, the believing spouse must try his utmost to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with the unbelieving spouse. "Divorce becomes a legitimate step when dissolution is the only solution" (Tow and Khoo).

Why should the believing spouse continue in the marriage as far as possible? The reason is that the believer’s spouse and children will be "sanctified" (hagiazō). The word "sanctified" here has the idea of being set apart for God’s holy purpose, just like how various items in the temple or the tithes and offerings of the saints are devoted to God’s use. In this case, because of the believing spouse’s relationship with God, God will also pour down His richest blessing upon the immediate family. The believer will then be a sanctifying influence at home because of his Christian conduct. The believing spouse will be used by God to minister to the immediate family members, though they are not yet part of the family of God. The privileges of God’s protection will also be bestowed upon the immediate family of the believer.

THOUGHT: Our God is a most gracious Lord.
PRAYER: Lord, use me to testify of Thy goodness. Save my unbelieving loved ones.