1 Corinthians 7:15 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 7:15 mean?

1 Corinthians 7:15 says that if a non-believing spouse chooses to leave a marriage, the believing spouse is not required to force them to stay or to remain bound in the marriage. Instead, God desires that believers live in peace, not in ongoing conflict or distress over such situations.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, answering questions about marriage between believers and non-believers. He explains that if the unbelieving partner wants to separate, the Christian is not "under bondage"—meaning not obligated to maintain the marriage at all costs. The focus is on peace, showing that God does not want believers trapped in turmoil when a spouse departs.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 7:15

• "depart" (χωρίζεται, chōrizetai): This word means to separate or leave. Paul uses it to describe the action of the unbelieving spouse who chooses to end the marriage, highlighting that the initiative comes from the non-believer.
• "bondage" (δουλόω, douloō): This word means to be enslaved or bound. Paul uses it to say the believer is not enslaved to the marriage covenant if the unbelieving spouse leaves, which emphasizes freedom from obligation in this specific circumstance.
• "peace" (εἰρήνη, eirēnē): This word means peace, harmony, or tranquility. Paul reminds the believers that God's calling is toward a life marked by peace, not by forced or contentious relationships.

Why 1 Corinthians 7:15 matters

• This verse clarifies that believers are not required to remain in a marriage if their non-believing spouse insists on leaving, correcting the idea that marriage must be preserved at any cost.
• The emphasis on "peace" shows that God values the well-being and harmony of His people, not just the outward keeping of marital status.
• The verse fits into Paul's broader teaching in 1 Corinthians 7 about practical guidance for Christians facing complex family situations, showing sensitivity to real-life struggles in mixed-faith marriages.