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NASB | 1 Corinthians 7:15 Yet if the unbelieving one leaves, let him leave; the brother or the sister is not under bondage in such cases, but God has called us to peace. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 1 Corinthians 7:15 But if the unbelieving partner leaves, let him leave. In such cases the [remaining] brother or sister is not [spiritually or morally] bound. But God has called us to peace. |
Bible Question:
How is it possible to obey 2 Cor 6:14 if... If it cannot be known whether an individual is an unbeliever, then how can one keep the command found in 2 Cor. 6:14? NASB 2 Corinthians 6:14a Do not be bound together with unbelievers; AMPLIFIED 2 Corinthians 6:14a Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers [do not make mismated alliances with them or come under a different yoke with them, inconsistent with your faith]. If it is impossible to discern whether an individual is an unbeliever, then it is also impossible to obey the command in 2 Cor. 6:14. His Commandments Are Not Burdensome NASB 1 John 5:3 For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome. AMPLIFIED 1 John 5:3 For the [true] love of God is this: that we do His commands [keep His ordinances and are mindful of His precepts and teaching]. And these orders of His are not irksome (burdensome, oppressive, or grievous). |
Bible Answer: Hi Kalos, This is a very good question. Matthew 7:18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Mat 18:15 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. 16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. 17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. My understanding from these passages is that, since we cannot actually know what is in another's heart, we have to go by what we see in their lives. If we see the fruit of repentance, and sanctification, we should act according to how our Lord commands us to act towards the believer. If we do not see the fruit of repentance and sancfification, then, even though they may actually be a brother, "let them be to us as a heathen". We should act toward them as our Lord commands us to act towards the unbeliever. As always, our eyes will be much more able to see if we are actually subservient to the Lord, and not just trying to get out of something, or to gain some advantage for ourselves. Prayer must cover all. I hope this helps! Love in Christ, Mark |