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In verses fifteen and sixteen, Paul says that if an unbeliever leaves, let him do so. These verses are misused by some as a loophole to get out of marriage. But Paul’s statements were given to encourage the Christian spouse to try to get along with the unbeliever and make the marriage work. If, however, the unbelieving spouse insisted on leaving, Paul said to let him or her go. The only alternative would be for the Christian to denounce his or her faith or order to preserve the marriage, and that would be worse than dissolving the marriage. Paul’s chief purpose once again is to urge married couples to seek unity, not separation.

1 Corinthians 7:15-16

15 But if the unbeliever leaves, let it be so. The brother or the sister is not bound in such circumstances; God has called us to live in peace. 16 How do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or, how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife?