our Lord made was in the case of "fornication" (vs. 9). It should be noted that this is the general word which has as its root meaning "prostitution." Only in the case of infidelity or adultery could the marriage vows be set aside. Paul also addresses himself to the subject of the permanency of marriage (vrs. 10-14). Even if one partner is not a believer, the mar riage is sanctioned by the state and it is binding in the eyes of Cod. It is to be a holy union and a legal marriage. We are not to be looking
for a way to escape or to nullify the vows. We are to seek peace rather than strife. That is, if the unbelieving partner in a mixed marriage leaves then there is nothing still binding. God has called us to peace. There is no assurance that you can win them if you stay together. Do not fight a divorce if an unbeliever in the marriage union sues for divorce wanting to go his own way. The admonition further comes to "pick up where you are." We are not to go back and take on old
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