Infertility is a difficult reality for many families, leading them to explore alternative paths to parenthood. For those unable to conceive naturally, surrogacy can be a beautiful way to grow a family while remaining faithful to biblical principles. But what does the Bible say about surrogacy? Can Christians pursue surrogacy while staying true to their faith?
The Bible teaches that children are a gift from the Lord and a blessing to families (Psalm 127:3). Surrogacy, when approached with prayer, wisdom and a commitment to biblical principles, can be a faithful and compassionate way to help bring life into the world.
This article explores what the Bible says about surrogacy and offers guidance for Christians seeking to make an informed, faith-based decision.
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, asked her servant, Hagar, to bear a child for her—a practice that was culturally accepted at the time.
Hagar became pregnant and bore a son, Ishmael. Although this situation led to personal and relational challenges, it demonstrates that surrogacy, in some form, existed in 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 different ways. 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 can work through both natural conception and alternative paths to parenthood.
While Sarah and Hagar’s story reflects an ancient practice with different cultural norms, it shows that seeking alternative ways to build a family is not inherently against God’s will. Instead, it requires thoughtful consideration, faith, and trust in His 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. Since the Bible teaches that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), it’s essential to approach surrogacy in a way that honors God.
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), which should guide ethical considerations, especially regarding embryo creation and treatment.
Choosing a Christian agency that prioritizes life-honoring practices can help intended parents and surrogates move forward in faith. When approached with a commitment to biblical values, surrogacy can align with Christian beliefs.
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.
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 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.