Birth Control and the Bible in Alabama

Get our free mobile app

The upcoming election has one topic of IVF, birth control and more as hot topics in Alabama and nationwide. The topic of birth control is a subject of much debate in both religious and secular communities. Many Christians seek guidance from the Bible on whether or not the use of birth control aligns with their faith. While the Bible does not directly address modern methods of contraception, there are several key passages that help frame a biblical perspective on procreation, marital intimacy, and the responsibilities of husband and wife. In this article, we will explore five key Bible verses that provide insight into this subject: Genesis 1:28, Psalms 127:3, Genesis 38:8-10, 1 Corinthians 7:5, and Ephesians 5:22-23.

Genesis 1:28: "Be fruitful and multiply..."

One of the most well-known verses regarding procreation is Genesis 1:28, where God commands Adam and Eve, "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it." This verse is often interpreted as God's directive to humanity to reproduce and populate the earth. From this perspective, some Christians believe that limiting procreation through birth control might be contrary to God's original design for humanity.

However, others argue that this command was given at the beginning of creation when the earth was empty, and humanity was tasked with filling it. Today, some believe that fulfilling this command can involve responsible stewardship of family size, given considerations of health, finances, and the ability to provide for one's children.

Psalms 127:3: "Children are a heritage from the Lord..."

*Psalms 127:3*= states, "Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him." This verse emphasizes that children are a gift from God, and as such, many Christians view the blessing of children as a divine privilege. The sentiment behind this verse leads some to oppose any form of birth control, believing that couples should welcome all children as blessings from God.

On the other hand, others may see family planning as a way to responsibly manage the gifts God provides. Just as Christians are called to be good stewards of their finances, time, and talents, some believe that this stewardship extends to the family, including decisions about when and how many children to have.

Genesis 38:8-10: Onan’s Sin and Its Implications

A passage frequently cited in discussions about birth control is found in Genesis 38:8-10. In this story, Onan is instructed to fulfill the custom of levirate marriage by fathering a child with his deceased brother's wife. Instead, Onan practices coitus interruptus, spilling his seed on the ground to avoid producing offspring. As a result, God takes his life, condemning Onan's actions.

Some interpret this passage as a prohibition against any form of birth control, arguing that it shows God's disapproval of deliberately avoiding procreation. However, others contend that Onan's sin was not primarily about contraception but about his refusal to fulfill his familial duty and the dishonor he brought to his brother’s memory.

1 Corinthians 7:5: "Do not deprive each other..."

In 1 Corinthians 7:5, the apostle Paul gives advice to married couples, saying, "Do not deprive each other except perhaps by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control." While this verse focuses on the importance of sexual intimacy in marriage, it can also be applied to the issue of birth control.

The mutual consent between husband and wife is highlighted, suggesting that decisions about sexual relations (and by extension, family planning) should be made together, with consideration for the physical, emotional, and spiritual health of both partners. In this context, some couples may choose to use birth control to space out pregnancies or manage their family size responsibly.

Ephesians 5:22-23: The Roles of Husbands and Wives

Finally, Ephesians 5:22-23 speaks to the roles of husbands and wives within the marriage relationship: "Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church..." This passage emphasizes the structure of marriage, with mutual respect and love at the core of the relationship.

When it comes to birth control, this verse suggests that decisions should reflect the unity and trust between husband and wife. Both partners are called to love, honor, and care for each other, which may include thoughtful and prayerful discussions about whether and when to have children.

The Bible offers guiding principles about marriage, family, and the blessing of children, but it does not provide explicit commands regarding birth control. Christians are called to seek God's wisdom and guidance in their family planning decisions. Some may feel convicted to avoid all forms of contraception, while others may find peace in using birth control as a responsible way to manage their family’s well-being.

Ultimately, birth control is a personal decision that should be made with prayer, mutual consent, and a desire to honor God in the context of marriage.