What did Paul mean in 1 Corinthians 7:14 when he said children of a believer are holy, not unclean?

How are the children and the spouse of a believer sanctified? What can a believing parent do to help his or her children respond to God's calling?

Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 7:14: "For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband; otherwise your children would be unclean, but now they are holy."

In families where either a father or mother is a Christian believer, by virtue of God's calling, God views both the unbelieving mate and their children in a special way. This verse does not necessarily say God calls unbelieving mates, but He blesses them. They live with a converted person, which provides them with an intimate exposure to God's way of life.

The word "sanctification" is used to indicate "separation to God" (Vine's Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, "Sanctification, Sanctify"). Something or someone "sanctified" is set apart in a separate category for a particular use. "Holy" comes from hagios, which "fundamentally signifies 'separated' (among the Greeks, dedicated to the gods), and hence, in Scripture in its moral and spiritual significance, separated from sin and therefore consecrated to God, sacred" (ibid., "Holiness, Holy, Holily").

While the believer's conduct may be a powerful example for the unbelieving mate, he or she can usually go further than just setting an example to the children. A believing parent can actively teach them God's way and directly develop their understanding and relationship with Him. Without the influence of a converted parent, children in the household would be no different from others who, in ignorance, disobey God and lead spiritually "unclean" lives. However, because of the parent's conversion and relationship with God, such children are in a special category. Although not baptized, they are part of the "holy nation," the Church (1 Peter 2:9). They also have special access to the knowledge of God's way of life.

In the process of maturing physically, emotionally and spiritually, children of a believer have the choice to accept and respond to God's calling. If they do, they can receive the Holy Spirit as promised (Acts 2:38-39).

As with anyone coming to conversion, children of members must experience genuine repentance. Additionally, they must understand the lifelong commitment and responsibilities of being an "ambassador for Christ" (2 Corinthians 5:20). Competent counseling from a variety of spiritually wise people, such as ministers, parents and experienced members, can greatly aid a young adult's development toward baptism.