1 Corinthians 7:14 Meaning and Explanation
“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.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The presence of a believing spouse sets the household apart, so that the unbelieving partner and the children are touched by holiness.
What Does 1 Corinthians 7:14 Mean?
Paul gives the reason a believer should not flee such a marriage. The believing spouse "sanctifies" the home -- the unbelieving partner and the children are drawn within the sphere of God's setting-apart, called holy rather than unclean.
This is a word of great encouragement. Faith is not quarantined; it sanctifies its surroundings. The believer's life and prayers place the whole family within reach of grace. Children of such a home are regarded as holy, belonging to the covenant community. Paul assures the faithful spouse that staying is not contamination but consecration, and that God's blessing extends to those they love.
1 Corinthians 7:14 in the Original Language
hagiazo (ἁγιάζω), 'sanctified' -- set apart as holy, brought into God's sphere.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Corinthians 7:14
What does 1 Corinthians 7:14 mean?
The presence of a believing spouse sets the household apart, so that the unbelieving partner and the children are touched by holiness.