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14 For the unbelieving husband is made holy through his wife, and the unbelieving wife is made holy through the brother.[a] Otherwise, your children would be unclean, but as it is, they are holy.(A) 15 But if the unbelieving partner separates, let it be so; in such a case the brother or sister is not bound. It is to peace that God has called us.[b](B) 16 Wife, for all you know, you might save your husband. Husband, for all you know, you might save your wife.(C)

The Life that the Lord Has Assigned

17 However that may be, let each of you lead the life that the Lord has assigned, to which God called you. This is my rule in all the churches.(D) 18 Was anyone at the time of his call already circumcised? Let him not seek to remove the marks of circumcision. Was anyone at the time of his call uncircumcised? Let him not seek circumcision.(E) 19 Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but obeying the commandments of God is everything.(F) 20 Let each of you remain in the condition in which you were called.(G)

21 Were you a slave when called? Do not be concerned about it. Even if you can gain your freedom, make the most of it.[c] 22 For whoever was called in the Lord as a slave is a freed person belonging to the Lord, just as whoever was free when called is a slave belonging to Christ.(H) 23 You were bought with a price; do not become slaves of humans.(I) 24 In whatever condition you were called, brothers and sisters, there remain with God.

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Footnotes

  1. 7.14 Other ancient authorities read husband
  2. 7.15 Other ancient authorities read you
  3. 7.21 Meaning of Gk uncertain