Is birth control a sin in marriage? 7 common misconceptions

Many Christians grapple with the question of whether birth control within marriage is a sin.

Some Christians believe it’s a sin, while others see it as a personal choice within the marriage covenant.

A large part of this confusion arises from prevalent misconceptions within the Christian community.

These misconceptions can stem from misinterpretations of scripture, cultural or traditional beliefs, or lack of clear guidance from church leaders.

In this article, we will demystify 7 misconceptions, drawing on biblical teachings and theological insights to provide clarity and guidance.

1. Birth control is a lack of faith in God’s sovereignty

One common misconception amongst Christians is associating birth control with a lack of faith in God’s sovereignty.

The belief often stems from the idea that by controlling when and how many children to have, one is attempting to exert control over an area of life that should be solely God’s domain.

However, this viewpoint can overlook the fact that as humans, we routinely make decisions that impact our lives.

Choosing a career, deciding where to live, or even selecting a spouse – all these are choices we make, relying on God’s wisdom and guidance.

Just as these decisions do not detract from God’s sovereignty, making informed choices about family planning does not necessarily imply a lack of faith.

It can instead be seen as exercising the wisdom and discernment God has given us, under His guidance and within His plan for our lives.

2. The Bible explicitly forbids birth control

Another misconception is the belief that the Bible explicitly forbids the use of birth control.

This belief often hinges on the interpretation of specific biblical verses.

For instance, Genesis 1:28, where God commands humanity to “be fruitful and multiply,” is frequently cited.

However, it’s crucial to understand that this verse was not necessarily a command against birth control. Instead, it was a blessing to humanity to populate the earth.

While the Bible does value children and views them as a blessing from God, it does not explicitly command that every sexual act must result in procreation.

In fact, there are no verses in the Bible that directly address modern methods of birth control.

Therefore, using birth control is not inherently sinful or against biblical teachings.

It’s a decision that should be made prayerfully, considering factors such as health, finances, and one’s ability to responsibly care for a child.

3. Certain birth control methods are morally acceptable, others are not

The third misconception we encounter is that some methods of birth control are morally acceptable while others are not.

This belief often stems from the distinction made between ‘natural’ and ‘artificial’ methods of birth control.

For instance, some Christians believe that ‘natural’ methods, like fertility awareness or withdrawal, align with God’s design because they don’t involve any external intervention.

However, ‘artificial’ methods like pills, IUDs, or condoms are viewed as unacceptable.

But let’s consider this – if we accept using modern medicine to treat illnesses or improve our health, why should using it for family planning be viewed differently?

After all, the intent behind both is to promote wellbeing and responsible stewardship of our bodies.

Like the previous points, this misconception doesn’t hold up when closely examined.

No method of birth control is inherently more ‘Christian’ than another. The choice depends on individual circumstances, health considerations, and mutual agreement within the marriage.

4. Birth control is an act of rebellion against God’s command

Does choosing to use birth control mean we are rebelling against God’s command to “be fruitful and multiply”?

This is another common misconception in Christian circles.

Some interpret God’s command in Genesis as a mandate for all married couples to have as many children as possible. Therefore, using birth control is seen as an act of rebellion against this divine command.

However, it’s essential to remember that the cultural and historical context of the Bible differs greatly from our own.

In ancient times, high infant mortality rates and shorter life spans meant having many children was crucial for survival and prosperity.

But what about our modern context?

Well, being fruitful and multiplying isn’t strictly about the number of children one has.

It can also refer to spiritual fruitfulness—raising children who love and serve God, impacting others’ lives positively, and contributing to the growth of God’s kingdom.

Insight: The command to “be fruitful and multiply” is mentioned three times in Genesis (1:28, 9:1, 9:7) and was given in specific contexts — to Adam and Eve, and then to Noah and his sons after the flood.

5. Birth control is a women’s issue

Another misconception surrounds the idea that birth control is solely a women’s issue.

This belief often manifests in the idea that the responsibility for family planning lies mainly with the wife.

However, this viewpoint overlooks several important considerations:

• Marriage is a partnership where both parties share responsibilities.
• Decisions about family size impact both spouses and should involve mutual agreement.
• Many forms of birth control require active participation from the husband.

In reality, birth control is a couple’s issue, not just a woman’s concern.

Decisions about when to have children, how many to have, and what methods of birth control to use should be made jointly, with love and respect for each other’s viewpoints and concerns.

Yes, this is a completely shared responsibility and it reflects the mutual submission that is central to Christian marriage!

6. Birth control is equivalent to abortion

Let’s get this straight – birth control is not the same as abortion.

This misconception often arises due to misunderstandings about how different birth control methods work.

It’s essential to understand that most forms of birth control, like birth control pills or condoms, work by preventing fertilization.

This, in turn, means that they either stop the sperm from reaching the egg or prevent an egg from being released in the first place.

In contrast, abortion is a procedure that ends a pregnancy after the egg has been fertilized and implanted in the uterus.

7. Birth control is unnecessary in Christian marriages

Imagine a scenario where a Christian couple feels pressured to avoid birth control because they’ve been told it’s unnecessary in a Christian marriage.

This is not an uncommon situation, right?

And it’s rooted in another misconception.

The misconception here is the belief that since sex in marriage is for procreation, avoiding birth control is a way of leaving the family size up to God.

However, this view can overlook the importance of responsible parenthood and the couple’s capability to provide for their children, not just financially, but emotionally and spiritually as well.

In truth, using birth control can be a responsible choice that allows couples to plan their families in a way that ensures they can adequately care for each child they have.

It’s not about denying God’s role in creating life, but about recognizing our responsibility as stewards of the lives we bring into the world.

Responsible stewardship looks like in Christian marriages

The misconceptions discussed in this article highlight the need for open, informed conversations about birth control within the Christian community.

Now, it’s critical to move beyond these misconceptions and understand one thing:

Using birth control can be a part of responsible stewardship in Christian marriages.

Don’t you think that decisions surrounding family planning should be made prayerfully?

With thoughtful consideration of each partner’s health, the couple’s financial situation, and their ability to provide for their children—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Moreover, these decisions should be based on a sound understanding of biblical teachings and Christian principles.

Ultimately, the decision to use birth control is a personal one that each couple must make for themselves. As believers, we are called to extend grace and understanding to each other as we navigate these complex issues.