What the Bible Says About Birth Control, Infertility, Reproductive Technology, and Adoption

Synopsis

"The topic of reproductive issues is a sensitive one that every married couple must face. Advances in reproductive technology offer couples more options than ever before to have children-fertility treatment methods; embryo adoption; and prefertilization genetic screening. With all of these solutions available, plus the blessing of adoption, it can be difficult for Christian couples to determine which to consider when the Bible doesn't give specific answers. Theologian Wayne Grudem applies biblical truth and ethical reasoning to these problems in order to help Christians navigate issues surrounding birth control, infertility, reproductive technology, and adoption as they seek to live out God's word in an ever-changing society"--.

Summary

Chapter 1: What the Bible Does Not Say

* The Bible does not explicitly condemn contraception.
* The "rhythm method" of family planning, based on biblical principles, does not have a 100% success rate.
* The story of Onan (Genesis 38:8-10) does not prove that any form of birth control is sinful.

Chapter 2: Principles for Family Planning

* Children are a blessing from God, but their number and timing should be responsibly planned.
* Couples should consider their own physical, emotional, and financial well-being.
* Respect for life requires care for both the born and unborn child.
* Coercion or domination in decision-making is unacceptable.

Chapter 3: Methods of Birth Control

* The Bible does not endorse or condemn specific contraceptive methods.
* Couples should decide together which method is most appropriate for them, considering medical, ethical, and personal factors.
* Examples: Barrier methods (condoms, diaphragm), hormonal methods (pills, implants), sterilization.

Chapter 4: Infertility

* The Bible recognizes the pain and frustration of infertility.
* God's ultimate purpose is not always to give us children.
* Couples experiencing infertility should seek support from family, friends, and the Church.
* Examples of infertile couples: Sarah and Abraham, Hannah and Elkanah.

Chapter 5: Reproductive Technology

* The Bible does not specifically address assisted reproductive technology (ART).
* Ethical concerns include the creation of embryos that may not be implanted, the use of donor gametes, and the potential for genetic abnormalities.
* Examples of ART procedures: In vitro fertilization (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI), surrogacy.

Chapter 6: Adoption

* The Bible highly values the care of orphans and children without families.
* Adoption is a compassionate act that provides love and a home to those in need.
* Biblical examples of adoption: Moses, Esther, Jesus.

Example:

A couple named John and Mary are facing infertility. They have prayed, sought medical treatment, and consulted with their pastor. After much prayer and consideration, they decide to pursue in vitro fertilization (IVF). They are aware of the ethical concerns surrounding IVF, but they believe that it is the best option for them to have a child. They understand that there is no guarantee of success, but they trust in God's plan.