Since there are many churches, it would be impossible to represent all the different denominational positions. A better question would be, “What might be the Biblical position on In Vitro Fertilization?” The following is the opinion and reasoning of a Christian writer. There are no scriptures which speak directly to the subject.
In Vitro Fertilzation is a mechanical process in which a human egg and human sperm are mixed together with the hope that the egg will be fertilized. The fertilized egg is then implanted into a woman’s uterus. If the implantation is successful, the embryo will grow into a fully developed baby within the mother. The mother will give birth, and a wonderful human baby will be born!
There are many reasons a woman may not be able to conceive. Several reasons are due to physical problems resulting from imperfections due to the fall of Adam. Medical science has advanced to the point where some of these issues can be addressed. We are truly living in a time of a great increase of knowledge. Dan. 12:1, 4, “At that time shall arise Michael, the great prince…But you, Daniel, shut up the words and seal the book, until the time of the end. Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase.” Michael (our risen Lord) is providing mankind with a great increase of informational knowledge. Since this increasing knowledge has been given to us by God, it seems reasonable that we can use this new information to help us. When doctors seek to treat a couple suffering from infertility, they are essentially providing a medium for the process of fertilization. Doctors are not granting life.
Some may say the application of new knowledge is fine in most areas but not where the conception of a baby is concerned. Yet, there are many, many steps between the fertilization of an egg and the birth of a living child. If God does not want a couple to give birth, God will overrule. For example, God may not permit the embryo to be implanted or the embryo may not develop. Life is still and always will be a great gift from God!
If a married couple has been unable to conceive and birth a baby, they should pray about it. Ask God to show them what to do. If the problem results from spiritual sickness, then the couple needs to repent and ask God for forgiveness through Jesus’ blood. If infertility arises from physical problems, then it seems reasonable a couple might seek treatment from doctors.
Sometimes God gives us the liberty to make a decision based on our best understanding of the scriptures. When we do this, it is important to ask God to overrule and direct the results. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus asked God to remove an experience he was enduring. But at the end of His request He prayed, “nevertheless not my will, but thine (God’s) will be done.” (Luke 22:42) We should always follow this example when making any request of our Heavenly Father.
