1 Corinthians 7:16
For what knowest thou, O wife, whether thou shalt save thy husband? or how knowest thou, O man, whether thou shalt save thy wife?
1 Corinthians 7:16 (KJV)
Context
The Apostle Paul wrote the first letter to the Corinthians to address various issues and questions raised by the Corinthian believers. In chapter 7, Paul focuses on matters of marriage and singleness, offering guidance to the Corinthians in their particular circumstances. In verse 16, Paul raises an important question concerning the possibility of salvation for the unbelieving spouse in a mixed marriage. He addresses both wives and husbands, emphasizing that they should not despair or give up hope regarding the salvation of their unbelieving partners.
Meaning
Paul’s question is rhetorical and cuts both ways. The Greek construction, “what knowest thou whether,” suggests uncertainty: the believer cannot know for certain that their continued presence will save the unbelieving spouse. The word “save” here refers to salvation through Christ, not merely preserving the marriage. This verse is not a promise that a believing spouse will save their unbelieving partner. Instead, it is an argument from uncertainty: since you do not know whether you will save your spouse, you should not treat the marriage as if it must be preserved at all costs. The believer’s responsibility is to live faithfully, but the outcome of salvation belongs to God.
Biblical connections
In verse 15, Paul says that if the unbelieving spouse departs, the believer is not bound, and God has called us to peace. Verse 16 then provides a reason for the believing spouse to be content or at ease if the unbeliever departs after all proper methods have been used in vain to retain them. The reason is drawn from the uncertainty and improbability of being of any use to them to bring them to the knowledge of Christ and salvation by him. The believer cannot be sure that their continued presence will save the unbelieving spouse. This uncertainty frees the believer from a false sense of obligation to remain in a destructive situation, while also encouraging humble dependence on God rather than on one’s own efforts.
Application
Paul acknowledges that the believing spouse may have a significant influence on the unbelieving partner. While there are no guarantees, the believer should recognize the potential for their godly behaviour, character, and witness to impact the salvation of their spouse. The passage emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and maintaining a godly witness within the marriage. The believing spouse should not abandon or divorce their unbelieving partner simply because they have not yet come to faith in Christ. Instead, they are encouraged to continue loving, serving, and praying for their spouse’s salvation.
Prayer and Intercession: If you are in a mixed marriage where one spouse is a believer and the other is not, continue to pray earnestly for your partner’s salvation. Intercede on their behalf, asking God to open their heart and draw them to Himself.
Faithful Witness: Live out your faith authentically and consistently before your unbelieving spouse. Let your actions and attitudes reflect the love, grace, and truth of Christ, being a living testimony of God’s work in your life.
Patience and Trust: Recognize that salvation is ultimately in God’s hands. Exercise patience and trust in His timing, knowing that He is working in ways you may not see or understand.
Love and Respect: Show love, respect, and kindness to your spouse, even if they do not share your faith. Demonstrate Christ’s love in your actions, words, and attitudes, seeking to build a healthy and loving relationship.
Seek Support: If you are struggling or need guidance in navigating a mixed marriage, seek support from your church community or a trusted Christian counsellor. They can provide wisdom, encouragement, and practical advice to help you in your journey.
Reflection
This verse encourages believers to place their hope and trust in God, recognizing that He is ultimately in control of salvation. It reminds them that they are to faithfully fulfil their role as a spouse, seeking the spiritual well-being of their partner while relying on God’s sovereignty. While this verse specifically addresses mixed marriages, the principles of faithful witness, prayer, and trust in God’s sovereignty can be applied to other relationships where one person is seeking the salvation of another.
