1 Corinthians 7:15

But if the unbeliever leaves, let him go. The believing brother or sister is not bound in such cases. God has called you to live in peace.

Berean Standard Bible

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Study note

Setting — The apostle Paul addresses the Corinthian church regarding mixed-faith marriages when one spouse initiates separation. He writes to believers navigating the breakdown of a union while they remain in the same calling.

The words — The text highlights ἄπιστος (apistos), meaning "unbeliever," and δεδουλωται (dedoulōtai), meaning "has been bound." Paul uses these terms to specify that the believer is released from marital obligation when the unbeliever chooses to separate.

The thread — This directive to prioritize peace over forced unity runs through Romans 14:19, James 3:17, and 2 Corinthians 13:11. These passages collectively frame peace as the normative pursuit for believers in fractured relationships.

Why it lands — The text instructs the believer to accept the departure without coercion and recognize that God’s call is to peace, not forced retention. The reader must cease striving to maintain a broken covenant and prioritize the peace God commands.

Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.

The Greek words

King James Version

But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace.

Cross-references

Romans 14:19 So then, let us pursue what leads to peace and to mutual edification.
James 3:17 But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere.
2 Corinthians 13:11 Finally, brothers, rejoice! Aim for perfect harmony, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.
Matthew 12:50 For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother.”
Romans 12:18 If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone.
1 Corinthians 14:33 For God is not a God of disorder, but of peace—as in all the churches of the saints.
Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Hebrews 12:14 Pursue peace with everyone, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.
James 2:15 Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food.