As believers in Christ, we are called to be a light in the darkness, to share the Good News with those around us, and to bring hope to a world in need. But did you know that our influence can go even further? The Bible teaches that unbelievers can be sanctified, or set apart, by their relationship with believing spouses, parents, or other family members.
The Bible says...
- "For the unbelieving husband has been sanctified through his wife, and the unbelieving wife has been sanctified through her believing husband. Otherwise your children would be unclean, but as it is, they are holy." (1 Corinthians 7:14)
- "If anyone is a believer and has a spouse who is an unbeliever, and the unbeliever wants to live with them, they should not divorce. For the unbelieving spouse is sanctified through the believing spouse." (1 Corinthians 7:12-13)
What does it mean to be sanctified?
Sanctification is the process of being set apart for God's purposes, made holy and clean in His sight. For unbelievers, this means that they are brought into a special relationship with God, even if they don't yet believe. Through their connection with a believing loved one, they are exposed to God's love, grace, and truth in a unique way.
How does this work?
When a believer marries an unbeliever, or when a parent raises children who don't yet share their faith, God uses these relationships to draw the unbeliever closer to Himself. The believer's influence, prayers, and example can help to:
- Soften the unbeliever's heart, making them more receptive to the Gospel
- Provide a witness to God's love and power in their life
- Create opportunities for spiritual conversations and growth
As believers, we have the privilege of being a sanctifying influence in the lives of those around us. Whether through marriage, family, or friendship, our relationships with unbelievers can be a powerful tool for God's kingdom. Let us pray for our loved ones, model Christ's love and grace, and trust in God's work of sanctification in their lives.
