What ethical considerations should Christian couples have before using ART?

Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) encompass a range of medical procedures used to address infertility, with the most well-known being in vitro fertilization (IVF). For many Christian couples facing the challenge of infertility, ART offers a beacon of hope for conceiving a child. However, these technologies also bring forth a complex array of ethical considerations that Christian couples must thoughtfully navigate. This exploration seeks to illuminate these ethical dimensions from a non-denominational Christian perspective, encouraging couples to align their decisions with their faith and values.

The Sanctity of Life

At the heart of Christian bioethical considerations is the sanctity of life, a principle deeply rooted in biblical teachings. Life is viewed as a sacred gift from God, and every human being is made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). This foundational belief demands a careful and respectful approach to all forms of life, including embryonic life.

In the context of ART, particularly IVF, multiple embryos are often created, not all of which are implanted. This raises significant ethical questions about the status and handling of the surplus embryos. Are these embryos to be preserved indefinitely, donated to science, or discarded? Psalm 139:13-16 speaks to God’s intimate knowledge and crafting of us even from the womb, suggesting a divine interaction and intentionality in the development of life from its earliest stages. Thus, the potential destruction of embryos may be troubling within a Christian ethical framework, prompting couples to consider methods that align with the preservation and respect of all embryonic life.

The Marital Union and Procreation

Christian doctrine traditionally holds that the marital union is both unitive and procreative, reflecting the bond between Christ and the Church (Ephesians 5:31-32). This dual purpose underscores the belief that sexual intimacy and procreation are intrinsically linked, intended to occur within the bounds of marriage. ART, particularly methods like IVF, can blur these lines by introducing third parties into the procreative process, such as donors and surrogates.

The use of donor sperm, eggs, or surrogacy introduces complex ethical considerations about lineage, identity, and marital fidelity. The introduction of a third party’s genetic material or womb can raise questions about the biblical understanding of “one flesh” in marriage and the exclusive bond it signifies. Moreover, issues such as the anonymity of donors and the rights of the child to know their biological origins are also pertinent. Christian couples might need to wrestle with these questions and consider whether their choices might strain the marital covenant or alter the familial bonds intended by God.

The Role of Suffering and the Sovereignty of God

In the face of infertility, it is natural for couples to seek solutions that alleviate their suffering. However, Christianity teaches that suffering can also be a source of growth and deepened faith. Romans 5:3-5 notes that suffering produces perseverance, character, and hope. The struggle with infertility, while profoundly challenging, may be a journey through which God is working purposefully in a couple’s life.

This perspective does not mean that seeking medical help is wrong, but it does invite couples to seek discernment in how they pursue solutions. Trust in God’s sovereignty and timing can sometimes be overshadowed by the desire for immediate resolution through technological means. Christian couples may need to consider prayerfully whether their pursuit of ART is in alignment with a deep trust in God’s plans and timing for their lives.

Technological Dominion and Ethical Limits

Genesis 1:28 grants humanity dominion over the earth, which includes the pursuit of knowledge and the development of technology. However, this dominion is not without ethical boundaries. Just because something can be done technologically does not mean it should be done. The capabilities of ART are expanding rapidly, including possibilities like genetic editing and selection, which pose significant ethical dilemmas.

Christian couples should consider the implications of these technologies: Are we playing God? Are we seeking to create children in our image rather than God’s? Such questions are crucial in determining the ethical boundaries of using ART. The temptation to control the process of creation must be balanced with humility and reverence for God’s ultimate authority over life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Christian couples considering ART face a multifaceted landscape of ethical considerations. These include the sanctity and dignity of embryonic life, the integrity of the marital union, the role of suffering and divine sovereignty, and the ethical use of technology. Each couple must navigate these waters with prayer, wisdom, and counsel, seeking to make decisions that honor God, respect life, and uphold the marital covenant. In all things, the guidance of the Holy Spirit, coupled with the wisdom of the Christian community, will be invaluable in making choices that align with both faith and the desire for parenthood.