Surrogacy is a growing option for families struggling with infertility. It offers hope to those unable to conceive naturally. For Christians, however, it raises ethical and spiritual questions. Is surrogacy biblical? Can Christians pursue this option? This article explores what the Bible says about surrogacy and provides guidance for Christians.
What Does the Bible Say About Surrogacy?
Surrogacy in the Old Testament
The concept of surrogacy is not new. One of the earliest accounts can be found in the Bible, in the story of Sarah and Hagar. In Genesis 16, Sarah, unable to have children, suggested that her husband Abraham conceive a child with her servant, Hagar.
Hagar became pregnant and bore a son, Ishmael. While this situation led to personal and relational challenges, it shows that surrogacy, in some form, existed in ancient biblical times.
Sarah’s impatience may have led to complications, but this story reveals a broader principle: God’s plan for building families can come in various forms. In fact, later in the Bible, God fulfills His promise to Sarah, blessing her with her own son, Isaac, despite her old age. This illustrates that God’s will for family-building can involve both natural and alternative means, depending on His timing.
While Sarah and Hagar’s story reflects an ancient practice with different cultural norms, it does point to the idea that family-building through surrogacy is not inherently against God’s will. Instead, it requires thoughtful consideration, faith and trust in God’s plan.
Positive Encouragement for Surrogacy from the Bible
Surrogacy aligns with several positive biblical principles, especially the call to love and serve others. One key principle is the idea of helping those in need. Throughout Scripture, believers are encouraged to show love through action. In the New Testament, James 2:26 says, “Faith without works is dead.” Surrogacy can be a living example of this teaching—an act of love and service for those who are struggling to have children.
In addition, the Bible emphasizes the importance of family. Psalm 127:3 tells us, “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from Him.” Families are central to God’s design, and the desire to have children is seen as a natural and blessed part of life. Surrogacy provides an opportunity for those who are unable to conceive to participate in this divine blessing of family life.
By helping others to fulfill their God-given desire for children, surrogates are engaging in a selfless act that reflects Christ’s love and compassion. The Bible consistently highlights the importance of caring for others and putting others’ needs before our own. In Philippians 2:4, Christians are instructed to “look not only to [their] own interests but also to the interests of others.” Surrogacy can be viewed as a tangible way to live out this biblical principle.
Surrogacy in the New Testament
While the New Testament doesn’t directly address surrogacy, its teachings emphasize love, compassion and serving others, which can be seen as supportive of surrogacy. Jesus’ ministry was centered on caring for others and lifting up those who were in need. Acts of kindness, mercy and support were encouraged and celebrated.
When approached with the right heart and intentions, surrogacy can align with these values. For many Christian couples struggling with infertility, the opportunity to grow their family through surrogacy can be seen as a blessing. Surrogates, in turn, have the opportunity to serve others in a profound way by helping them fulfill their dream of parenthood.
Paul’s teachings in 1 Corinthians 13 also apply here. Love is patient, kind, and selfless—qualities that are essential for surrogacy. By stepping into the role of a surrogate, a woman is demonstrating Christ-like love and compassion, offering her body as a vessel of life for another family. This act of service can be seen as an extension of the love that Christ calls believers to show to one another.
Can Christians Use Surrogacy or Be Surrogates?
Moral and Ethical Considerations
For Christians, moral and ethical questions are always important. The Bible teaches that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), and Christians are called to honor God with their bodies. This raises questions about whether surrogacy aligns with biblical teachings on how we use our bodies.
One way to honor God in the surrogacy process is to ensure that the decisions made respect the sanctity of life. Christians believe that every human being is valuable and created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). This belief can guide ethical considerations, particularly around the creation and treatment of embryos.
Choosing a Christian agency that upholds the sanctity of life and avoids practices that involve the destruction of embryos can help Christians make decisions that are consistent with their faith. Surrogacy, when approached with respect for life and a commitment to biblical principles, can align with Christian values.
The Christian Call to Compassion
Helping others is central to the Christian faith. Jesus teaches us to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39). Surrogates embody this principle by offering a gift that is both profound and life-changing—helping others become parents.
The act of surrogacy can be seen as a Christ-like expression of love and service. Just as Christ sacrificed Himself for others, surrogates selflessly give of themselves to bless another family. This is a beautiful reflection of the Christian call to compassion.
For Christian surrogates, the decision to carry a child for someone else can be an opportunity to live out their faith in a tangible way. It is an act of love that reflects the heart of the Gospel—caring for others and helping to bring life into the world. Surrogacy, when approached with prayer, wisdom, and guidance, can be a fulfilling way to live out the Christian faith.
Church Views on Surrogacy
Church views on surrogacy vary across different denominations. Some churches fully support surrogacy as a way to help couples who are struggling with infertility. They see it as an act of love and compassion, aligning with the biblical call to care for others.
Other churches may express concerns about the ethical implications of surrogacy, particularly around issues like embryo creation and the potential for selective termination. For example, the Roman Catholic Church opposes surrogacy, viewing it as inconsistent with the dignity of human life and the sanctity of marriage. The Catholic Church teaches that children should be conceived naturally within the marital union and surrogacy disrupts this design.
However, many Protestant denominations are more open to surrogacy, especially when it respects the sanctity of life and follows ethical guidelines. Churches that support surrogacy often encourage prayerful consideration, ethical decision-making, and seeking guidance from God throughout the process.
Christians considering surrogacy should seek guidance from their church leaders and understand their denomination’s teachings. By doing so, they can ensure that their decisions align with their faith and values.
Choosing a Christian Surrogacy Agency
When considering surrogacy, it’s important to find an agency that shares your Christian values. It’s also essential to be well-informed by knowing the right questions to ask a surrogacy agency.
Surrogacy by Faith is unique in its commitment to faith-based support for both intended parents and surrogates. It is the only surrogacy agency that does not allow termination of a pregnancy unless the life of the mother or baby is in danger. This commitment to the sanctity of life ensures that Christian families can pursue surrogacy in a way that aligns with their beliefs.
With ethical and faith-based surrogacy practices, Surrogacy by Faith provides a strong foundation for Christian families. We offer compassionate and understanding support throughout the journey, ensuring that your experience honors your faith and values.
If you are ready to start your surrogacy journey with a Christian agency that respects your beliefs, Surrogacy by Faith is here to help. Begin your journey today by filling out either a surrogate initial inquiry or an intended parent or parents initial inquiry.