1 Corinthians 7:14
For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy.
1 Corinthians 7:14 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse, found in the Bible in 1 Corinthians 7:14, speaks to the concept of spiritual influence within a marriage. It suggests that the presence of a believing spouse can have a positive impact on the relationship, even if the other spouse does not share the same faith. The term "sanctified" in this context means set apart or made holy. In essence, this verse teaches that a believing spouse can have a purifying and sanctifying influence on the unbelieving spouse, leading to a spiritual benefit for the entire family unit. The verse also highlights the importance of unity within a marriage, particularly when it comes to matters of faith. By being in a relationship with a believer, the unbelieving spouse and even the children are considered holy in the eyes of God. This verse underscores the significance of the spiritual bond between a husband and wife and its potential impact on the family as a whole.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse is that it speaks to the concept of spiritual influence within a marriage. Despite one partner being an unbeliever, the presence of a believing spouse can have a sanctifying effect on the unbelieving partner. This means that the unbelieving partner is affected by the believer's faith, to the point where their marriage and children are considered holy. This highlights the importance of being in a union with a shared faith and the impact it can have on the family unit. Additionally, some word studies on the term "sanctified" in this verse indicate that it refers to being set apart or made holy. In this context, it suggests that the presence of a believer in the relationship can have a purifying and sanctifying influence on the unbelieving spouse.
1 Corinthians 7:14 in other translations
American Standard Version
For the unbelieving husband is sanctified in the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified in the brother: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy.
World English Bible
For the unbelieving husband is sanctified in the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified in the husband. Otherwise your children would be unclean, but now they are holy.
Douay-Rheims
For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the believing wife: and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the believing husband. Otherwise your children should be unclean: but now they are holy.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For the vnbeleeuing husband is sanctified to the wife, and the vnbeleeuing wife is sanctified to the husband, els were your children vncleane: but nowe are they holie.