What is a biblical view on artificial insemination?

TL;DR:

The Bible confirms that God is the one who gives life. Artificial insemination was not available during the times in which the Bible was written, so any couple considering it needs to do so prayerfully and with consideration of all relevant biblical principles. Christians might come to different conclusions on whether artificial insemination is appropriate.

what does the bible say?

Artificial insemination is the process by which a man's sperm is implanted into a woman's uterus at a specific place and time in order to increase the chance of an egg becoming fertilized. There are two types of artificial insemination: the woman's husband's sperm is used or a donor's sperm is used. The process of artificial insemination differs from in vitro fertilization (where the sperm and eggs are fertilized outside of the womb and then multiple fertilized embryos are implanted into the uterus). As with all decisions, it is important for a couple to bring both the fertility issues and the option of artificial insemination before God in prayer. They should thoughtfully examine Scripture on all the related issues as well as examine their own hearts. Ultimately, children are a gift from the Lord no matter how they are conceived.

from the old testament

While the concept and technology for artificial insemination did not exist when the Bible was written, the Bible does provide clear guidelines regarding the creation of new life. The Bible celebrates and even encourages procreation within the boundaries of marriage (Genesis 1:28; Psalm 127:3).
God created the gift of sex to be enjoyed by a husband and wife within marriage to procreate and to bond them together (Genesis 2:24). The family unit is the ideal situation for raising a child (Proverbs 22:6).
The Bible also says that God is sovereign over the creation of life (Psalm 139:13–16).
No matter what steps a couple might take to get pregnant, ultimately it is up to God whether or not it will happen (Proverbs 16:9).
There are multiple examples of God both closing and opening women’s wombs in the Bible (Genesis 20:18; 21:1–2; 25:21; 30:22; 1 Samuel 1:5–6, 19–20).

from the new testament

The New Testament also confirms that God created sex to be enjoyed by a husband and wife within marriage to procreate and to bond them together (1 Corinthians 7:2–5) and that the family unit is the ideal situation for raising a child (Ephesians 6:4).
There are also examples of God opening and closing women’s wombs in the New Testament. He worked a miracle in Mary, who was a virgin when she became pregnant with Jesus (Luke 1:34–35), and He blessed Zechariah and Elizabeth (Luke 1:7, 13, 18–19) with a son when they were past child-bearing age.

implications for today

The Christian community is divided on the issue of artificial insemination. Some see infertility as a result of the general entrance of sin into the world in that it is a manifestation of the body not working as designed. They see artificial insemination as an acceptable means of alleviating that symptom with gratitude toward God. Others view conception outside of intercourse as going against God’s design. Still others wonder if using this type of intervention is a sign of distrusting God. Concerns about sperm collection and selection, as well as financial stewardship in treatment costs, are also raised. The issue of donor sperm is yet another matter. Is that introducing a third party into the marriage? What rights does the child have to his or her biological father (the sperm donor)? What about biological siblings if the sperm donor fathers multiple children? Of course, considerations about being a sperm donor—and thus how a Christian couple considering using a sperm donor should consider that person—also come into play. Many believe artificial insemination can be done morally, ethically, and with glory and gratitude to God. The specific circumstances have a meaningful impact on the decision. Christian couples struggling to conceive should seek God's wisdom as they prayerfully consider the appropriate options for their family.

understand

Conception, whether natural or assisted, is ultimately under God’s control.
The Christian community holds multiple views on artificial insemination.
Couples should prayerfully seek God’s wisdom, examine Scripture, and obtain counsel from Christian mentors before proceeding.

reflect

How can you trust God’s sovereignty over your family’s ability to have children, regardless of the method of conception?
How can you approach the topic of artificial insemination with prayer and biblical guidance for your family’s situation?
How can you find peace in God’s timing and wisdom when facing fertility challenges?

engage

How can our community support Christian couples facing difficult decisions about artificial insemination?
What are the potential spiritual and emotional impacts for our church if we avoid or misunderstand these issues?
How can we engage in compassionate discussions about different views on fertility treatments while maintaining biblical principles?