What is what does it mean that the husband is sanctified by the wife?

In the context of 1 Corinthians 7:14, the statement "the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife" is a complex and debated passage with several interpretations. It does not mean that the believing wife earns salvation for her unbelieving husband. Rather, it speaks to the practical benefits and holiness brought into the household through the presence of a believer. Here's a breakdown of the key aspects:

• Sanctification as Set Apart: The term "sanctified" here doesn't refer to saving grace but to a state of being set apart or positively influenced for good. The believing wife's presence and godly influence bring a degree of holiness and blessing into the family environment. This doesn't guarantee the husband's salvation, but it creates a more favorable atmosphere. [https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Sanctification%20as%20Set%20Apart]

• Legitimacy of Children: A primary concern in the early church was the status of children born to mixed-faith marriages. The passage assures believers that their children are not "unclean" or illegitimate due to one parent being an unbeliever. Instead, the children are considered holy because of the believing parent. This addresses social and religious concerns about inheritance and belonging. [https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Children%20are%20considered%20holy]

• Influence and Opportunity: The believing spouse has the opportunity to influence their unbelieving partner through their behavior, love, and witness. This creates a possibility for the unbelieving spouse to come to faith. While salvation is ultimately God's work, the believing spouse plays a role in creating an environment where the Gospel can be received. [https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Influence]

• Not a Guarantee of Salvation: It's crucial to understand that this verse is not a promise that the unbelieving spouse will be saved. Salvation is an individual decision based on faith in Jesus Christ. The "sanctification" here relates to the effects of the believer's presence, not a guaranteed outcome of salvation. [https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Not%20a%20Guarantee%20of%20Salvation]

• Peace and Unity: Paul's overall aim in this chapter is to promote peace and unity within the church and within marriages. He encourages believers to remain in their marriages, even if their spouse is an unbeliever, as long as the unbelieving spouse is willing to stay. The believer's presence can be a source of stability and blessing. [https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Source%20of%20stability%20and%20blessing]