SS Outline 3.2.25

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
Objective: Equip participants with a biblical and ethical understanding of IVF, enabling them to engage thoughtfully and compassionately with the topic.

Understanding IVF 

• Definition: a medical procedure where an egg is fertilized by sperm outside the body and then implanted into the uterus.
• Process Overview: ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization, embryo culture, and embryo transfer.

Biblical and Theological Considerations

• Sanctity of Life: Psalm 139:13-16. Embryos are viewed as human beings with inherent dignity.
• Marriage and Procreation: procreation within the confines of marriage (Genesis 1:28; 2:24).
• Sovereignty of God: 
  • How should Christians approach the desire for children in light of infertility?
  • Trusting God's sovereignty in fertility matters (1 Samuel 1:5-6; Psalm 127:3).

Ethical Concerns with IVF: What are the potential moral dilemmas associated with IVF?

• Embryo Creation and Destruction: creation of multiple embryos, potential for unused embryos to be discarded or indefinitely frozen.
• Third-Party Involvement: implications of using donor eggs or sperm, and surrogacy, on the marital union.
• Selective Reduction: Consider the moral implications of reducing the number of embryos in cases of multiple pregnancies.
• Alternative Options: adoption or embryo adoption