Medical advances have made it possible to have babies "in glass" - in a test tube. But what does the Bible say about it?
Talking Points:
- There is no clear directive in the Bible that says you can’t create life outside the womb. Where the issue gets thorny is more about the process and the consequences that may follow.
- In the process of in vitro fertilization, the goal is to fertilize many eggs to increase the chance of getting a viable embryo. The specialists are grading the eggs and choosing the ones that seem to be strongest. So, you end up with more embryos than you need.
- A fertilized egg is called an embryo, which to many means life has begun. The only difference between an embryo, toddler, and teenager is the amount of time they’ve had to develop. But in all cases they are considered a life.
- Every life matters to God and it’s important for us to be good stewards of the kids God gives us, whether from natural conception or through the process of in vitro. An embryo is a life that God cares about. Psalm 139:13-16
- If you currently have frozen embryos, Pastor Todd encourages you to prayerfully consider what God would want you to do with those little lives. The best approach would be to fertilize only the amount you know you can handle emotionally and financially.
Discussion:
- What is your initial reaction to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- “The ability to create life outside of the womb is not expressly prohibited in Scripture.” If this is true, then what’s the problem with in vitro fertilization?
- The difference between and embryo, a fetus, a newborn, a child, and an adult is simply this: time. Do you agree with this? Explain.
- Read Psalm 139:13-16. How does this passage speak to this issue? What do you believe a person should do when considering in vitro fertilization?
- What do you believe a person should do if they have already gone through the process and have frozen, fertilized eggs?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
