Expert: Edward Bode - 5/24/2009

Question
Hello,

I am a Orthodox, and I am in debate with a Catholic on 1 Cor 7:14. According to this Catholic, 1 Cor 7:14 teaches that unbelieving spouse is made "Holy" (saved) through the believing spouse. That the children is also saved through the believing spouse. That "even though they are not baptized and don't believe in Christ, they are remitted of original sin because of the believing spouse meaning that they have the ability to receive eternal salvation (provided that they live righteous life in God's eyes as non-believers)" (his words). What is your thought on this? I check some Catholic Commentaries, and they disagree with him. How do you, a Catholic, interprets this verse?

In IC.XC,
Ray

Answer
There are three main historic opinions about the interpretation of sancitification in the verse: [1] -- internal sanctification; [2] -- potential sanctification [a person being converted through another]; [3] -- external or legal sanctification.
I would see the pagan spouse belonging (in some way)through a holy marriage to the community of the faithful.  Also, I see something of their being in a situation that could lead to internal sanctification [conversion].  Their entering such a marriage begins an association with an observant spouse and thus begins an association with the Christian way of life.
Nothing traditional supports the pagan's relationship being a deliverance from original sin -- a sort of baptism by relationship.
I hope these thoughts are of some help.
Christ is risen. Christ is truly risen!
Best wishes, Ray.