1 Corinthians 7:15 – “But if the unbeliever leaves, let it be so. The brother or the sister is not bound in such circumstances; God has called us to live in peace.”

Extended Explanation

This verse addresses a difficult situation in marriage—when an unbelieving spouse chooses to leave the marriage. Paul has already encouraged believers to stay with their unbelieving spouse if the spouse is willing (1 Corinthians 7:12-14). However, here he makes an exception: if the unbelieving spouse insists on leaving, the believer is not required to fight to keep the marriage together.

The key phrase is “not bound in such circumstances.” This suggests that the believer is released from the obligation to remain in a marriage that the unbelieving spouse has abandoned. While Paul upholds the sacredness of marriage, he also acknowledges that peace is important. If an unbelieving spouse refuses to stay in the marriage, the believer is not expected to endure constant conflict or force the relationship to continue.

Historical Context

In first-century Corinth, many people became Christians after they were already married. This meant that some believers found themselves married to a spouse who did not share their faith. In Roman society, divorce was common and could be initiated by either the husband or the wife.

Some Christian converts may have faced pressure or hostility from their unbelieving spouse. Others may have had spouses who simply did not want to be married to someone whose life and priorities had changed so drastically. Paul recognizes that these situations are painful and complicated.

Instead of forcing a believer to cling to a marriage where the unbelieving spouse has already abandoned them, Paul provides clarity: if the unbelieving spouse leaves, the believer is free. This was a significant teaching, especially in a time when some may have assumed that marriage must continue at all costs, even when one spouse had completely walked away.

Theological Implications

1. God Values Peace in Marriage – Paul makes it clear that while marriage is important, so is peace. A marriage filled with strife and abandonment does not reflect God’s design.
2. Divorce is Sometimes Unavoidable – While Scripture consistently teaches that marriage is meant to be lifelong, Paul acknowledges that there are situations where separation happens.
3. The Believer is Not Spiritually Bound – The phrase “not bound” suggests that when an unbeliever leaves, the believer is no longer obligated to hold onto the marriage. Many interpret this to mean that the believer is free to remarry, though others believe Paul is simply saying they are free from the marital bond without necessarily endorsing remarriage.
4. God’s Call is to Live in Peace – Paul reminds believers that God desires peace in their lives, not ongoing conflict and distress caused by a spouse who refuses to stay.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s words in this verse are compassionate and practical. He does not rush to encourage divorce but instead acknowledges that some situations are beyond a believer’s control.

The phrase “let it be so” reflects a sense of release—it does not mean that the believer should push for divorce, but that they should not be burdened with guilt if the unbelieving spouse leaves.

The phrase “not bound” is also significant. The Greek word used here (δουλόω, douloo) often refers to being enslaved or tied down. Paul is reassuring the believer that they are no longer spiritually or morally obligated to remain in a marriage that the other person has abandoned.

Biblical Cross-References

• Matthew 19:6 – Jesus teaches that marriage is meant to be permanent, but this does not contradict Paul’s teaching that abandonment by an unbeliever is a special case.
• Matthew 5:32 – Jesus allows for divorce in cases of marital unfaithfulness.
• Romans 12:18 – “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” This aligns with Paul’s teaching about seeking peace.
• 1 Peter 3:1-2 – Encourages believing wives to be a witness to their unbelieving husbands, but does not suggest they must stay if the husband leaves.
• 2 Corinthians 6:14 – Warns against being unequally yoked with unbelievers, reinforcing the challenges of mixed-faith marriages.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse provides guidance and comfort for Christians who face abandonment in marriage. While God’s design is for lifelong marriage, He does not require a believer to hold onto a marriage when their unbelieving spouse has left.

For those who have been abandoned by a spouse, this verse offers reassurance that they are not failing God by accepting the separation. They are “not bound” to an impossible situation.

For churches, this verse provides wisdom for counseling those in difficult marriages. Rather than forcing a believer to remain in a destructive or abandoned marriage, the church should encourage them to seek peace and healing in their situation.

This verse also encourages all believers to value peace in their relationships. While we should work to preserve marriage whenever possible, there are times when letting go is the best path forward.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is not about forcing people into impossible situations. He understands the pain of broken relationships and offers grace to those who have been abandoned.

This verse reflects God’s compassion. Rather than demanding that believers suffer in a marriage where their spouse has walked away, God allows them to find peace and move forward. His love is not about legalistic rules but about guiding His people to wholeness and restoration.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus Himself experienced abandonment—His closest friends deserted Him in His time of need (Matthew 26:56). He understands the pain of being left behind. Those who have been abandoned in marriage can take comfort in knowing that Jesus walks with them in their sorrow.

Jesus also came to bring peace (John 14:27). This aligns with Paul’s statement that “God has called us to live in peace.” Following Christ does not mean being trapped in situations of constant conflict. It means pursuing peace in all areas of life, including relationships.

Additionally, Jesus taught that the law was made for people’s good, not just as a burden (Mark 2:27). Paul’s teaching here reflects that principle—marriage is a good gift, but in cases of abandonment, believers are not left without hope or direction.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does “not bound” mean in this verse, and how should it be applied?
2. How can a believer pursue peace in a difficult marriage?
3. How does this verse challenge the idea that divorce is always wrong?
4. How can the church support Christians who have been abandoned by an unbelieving spouse?
5. What does this verse teach us about God’s grace and compassion for those in painful relationships?