The following series is based on a book written by Jeremy and Sushma Ballard, “Is Your Home a Jesus Home?” The book is available for purchase on Amazon (Paperback & eBook), Barnes & Noble (Paperback & eBook), and Apple Books (eBook). Every purchase helps to support Jesus Home Ministries and the work Jeremy and Sushma are doing.
In our last lesson, we examined the tragic consequences of Ananias and Sapphira’s shared sin. Today, we’ll explore the importance of maintaining righteousness within marriage, regardless of our spouse’s actions.
Read 1 Corinthian 7:14
A husband’s role is to lead his wife spiritually, even when she may not be following faithfully. In such circumstances, he must continue to set a godly example, praying for God’s intervention in her heart. Through his steadfastness in faith and persistent prayer, there is hope that his wife will eventually recognize the need to align with her husband’s godly leadership.
Similarly, a wife is called to respect and submit to her husband, even when his conduct falls short of godliness, as long as she is not being asked to commit sin. 1 Peter 3:1 encourages wives to be an example to their husbands, demonstrating the love of Christ even during times of his unfaithfulness. Her godly conduct can be a powerful witness, potentially leading him back to righteousness.
However, it is crucial to recognize that obedience to God must take precedence over submission to a spouse when sin is involved. Acts 5:29 reminds us that “we must obey God rather than men.” A husband must never lead his wife into sin, and a wife should not submit to sinful requests. Collaborating in sin can have devastating and far-reaching consequences, both spiritually and relationally.
This underscores the importance of marrying someone who shares your faith and spiritual convictions. As Paul cautions in 2 Corinthians 6:14, being unequally yoked with an unbeliever can lead to spiritual discord, where the weaker partner may pull down the stronger one. It is much easier to be led astray than to lift someone up.
For those who find themselves in a marriage with an unbelieving spouse, there is still hope. 1 Corinthians 7:14 speaks of the sanctifying influence a believing spouse can have on their partner. While this does not guarantee the unbeliever’s salvation, it does highlight the potential for the believer’s faithfulness to bring divine blessing to the marriage and to have a positive impact on the unbelieving spouse.
Join us next time as we delve into what the Bible teaches about divorce and remarriage.
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