In this post, we will discuss Bible verses about genetic disorders, Christian views on genetic engineering and Bible verses on human enhancement.
Genetic disorders are a reality of life. But they don’t have to be the end of your story.
The Bible is full of verses that speak to our struggles and our potential as human beings, including those with genetic disorders. Here are some of our favorites:
“When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you.” Psalm 56:3
“I will lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from?” Psalm 121:1
“In all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
Bible Verses About Genetic Disorders
Genetic disorders are conditions that are caused by abnormalities in an individual’s DNA. These disorders can have a significant impact on a person’s health and quality of life. While science and medicine have made great strides in understanding and treating genetic disorders, many individuals and families affected by these conditions turn to their faith for comfort and guidance. The Bible offers wisdom and insight on how to navigate the challenges of genetic disorders. Here are 5 Bible verses that provide guidance and hope for those affected by genetic disorders:
These verses from the Bible illustrate the idea that those who are righteous, meek, wise, and faithful will inherit the earth, be blessed, and receive honor from God. It serves as a reminder to live a life of virtue, humility, and faithfulness in order to receive God’s promises and blessings.
The element of greatest concern with genetic engineering involves how much liberty mankind can take in its responsibility to care for the human body and the rest of creation. There is no doubt that the Bible exhorts us to be responsible for our physical health. Proverbs refers to certain activities regarding restoring the health of an individual (Proverbs 12:18).
Bible Verses About Genetic Disorders
Bible Verses About Genetic Disorders
Genetic disorders are conditions caused by changes or mutations in a person’s DNA. These disorders can have a significant impact on an individual’s health and quality of life. In times of struggle and uncertainty, many turn to their faith for comfort and guidance. Here are 10 Bible verses that speak to the topic of genetic disorders:
1. Psalm 139:13-14
“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
2. Exodus 4:11
“The Lord said to him, ‘Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the Lord?'”
3. John 9:2-3
“His disciples asked him, ‘Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?’ ‘Neither this man nor his parents sinned,’ said Jesus, ‘but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.'”
4. Exodus 15:26
“He said, ‘If you listen carefully to the Lord your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, who heals you.'”
5. 2 Corinthians 12:9
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”
6. Romans 8:18
“I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”
7. James 1:2-4
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
8. Psalm 34:17-18
“The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
9. Isaiah 40:29
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.”
10. Matthew 11:28-30
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
These verses remind us that while we may face struggles and challenges, we are not alone. God is with us, providing comfort, strength, and healing in times of need. Let these words be a source of hope and encouragement for those dealing with genetic disorders and their loved ones.
What Does The Bible Say About Genetic Modification
Genetic modification, also known as genetic engineering, is a controversial topic in today’s society. Many people wonder what the Bible has to say about this issue. While the Bible does not specifically mention genetic modification, there are some principles and verses that can be applied to this topic.
1. Genesis 1:27-28
“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, ‘Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.'”
2. Genesis 1:31
“God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day.”
3. Psalms 139:13-14
“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
4. Leviticus 19:19
“Keep my decrees. Do not mate different kinds of animals. Do not plant your field with two kinds of seed. Do not wear clothing woven of two kinds of material.”
5. Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
6. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
7. Galatians 6:7
“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”
8. Ephesians 2:10
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
9. Isaiah 64:8
“Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand.”
10. Colossians 1:16-17
“For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him, all things hold together.”
While the Bible does not explicitly address the topic of genetic modification, these verses provide insight into God’s creation and our responsibility to honor and care for it. As Christians, it is important to approach this topic with prayer, seeking wisdom and guidance from God.
Inherited Problems In the Bible
In the Bible, there are numerous references to inherited problems that have been passed down through generations. These problems can manifest in various forms, including sin, illness, and generational curses. Through a selection of Bible verses, we can gain insight into the nature of these inherited issues and how they impact individuals and families.
Bible Verses Explaining Inherited Problems
1. Exodus 20:5 – “You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me.”2. Numbers 14:18 – “The Lord is slow to anger, abounding in love and forgiving sin and rebellion. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.”
3. Deuteronomy 5:9 – “You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me.”
4. Jeremiah 32:18 – “You show love to thousands but bring the punishment for the parents’ sins into the laps of their children after them. Great and mighty God, whose name is the Lord Almighty.”
5. Lamentations 5:7 – “Our ancestors sinned and are no more, and we bear their punishment.”
6. Ezekiel 18:20 – “The one who sins is the one who will die. The child will not share the guilt of the parent, nor will the parent share the guilt of the child. The righteousness of the righteous will be credited to them, and the wickedness of the wicked will be charged against them.”
7. Psalm 51:5 – “Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me.”
8. Genesis 20:4 – “But for the sake of my servant David and the city of Jerusalem, which I have chosen out of all the tribes of Israel, he will have one tribe.”
9. Colossians 2:13 – “When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins,”
10. Romans 5:12 – “Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people because all sinned—”
Inherited problems in the Bible serve as a reminder of the consequences of sin and rebellion against God. By acknowledging these issues, individuals can seek forgiveness and redemption through faith and obedience to God’s word. Through the verses mentioned above, we can see the importance of breaking generational cycles of sin and turning towards a path of righteousness and grace.
Psalm 139 and Birth Defects
Psalm 139 is a powerful chapter in the Bible that speaks to the intricacies of human life and the divine knowledge and care that God has for each individual. When it comes to the topic of birth defects, many may wonder how this fits into the narrative of God’s creation and plan. However, a closer look at Psalm 139 reveals that God’s sovereignty extends to every aspect of human existence, including the formation of individuals with birth defects.
Below are 10 Bible verses from Psalm 139 that shed light on the topic of birth defects:
Inherited Sickness In The Bible
Throughout the Bible, there are numerous references to inherited sickness and the consequences of sin. By quoting relevant Bible verses, we can gain insight into this important topic and understand the implications for our lives.
Bible Verses About Inherited Sickness
These Bible verses demonstrate the connection between sin and sickness, as well as the hope and healing that can be found through faith in God. It is important for us to seek forgiveness for our sins and rely on God’s love and mercy for healing and restoration.
Hereditary In The Bible
Hereditary is a concept that is prevalent throughout the Bible, with many verses referring to passing down of traits, characteristics, blessings, and curses from one generation to another. Below are 10-12 Bible verses that explain the topic of hereditary.
Bible Verses:
- Genesis 17:7 – “I will establish my covenant as an everlasting covenant between me and you and your descendants after you for the generations to come, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you.”
- Exodus 20:5 – “You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me.”
- Numbers 14:18 – “The Lord is slow to anger, abounding in love and forgiving sin and rebellion. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.”
- Deuteronomy 5:9 – “You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me.”
- Psalm 78:5-6 – “He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our ancestors to teach their children, so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children.”
- Proverbs 22:6 – “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”
- Isaiah 44:3 – “For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants.”
- Jeremiah 32:18 – “You show love to thousands but bring the punishment for the parents’ sins into the laps of their children after them. Great and mighty God, whose name is the Lord Almighty.”
- 1 Corinthians 15:22 – “For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.”
- Galatians 6:7 – “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”
Genetics And The Bible
**Genetics And The Bible**
Genetics is the study of heredity and the variation of inherited characteristics. It is a field that has made great advancements in recent years, shedding light on the intricate nature of human beings and all living organisms. The Bible, a sacred text for Christians, also contains teachings and references that are relevant to the study of genetics.
Here are 10 Bible verses that provide insight into the connection between genetics and the teachings of the Bible:
1. **Genesis 1:27** – “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” This verse speaks to the idea that humans are created by God and carry his image within them, suggesting a divine aspect to our genetic makeup.
2. **Psalm 139:13** – “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.” This verse highlights the intricacy and care with which God forms each individual, emphasizing the importance of genetics in the process of creation.
3. **Jeremiah 1:5** – “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” This verse suggests that God has a plan for each person even before they are born, underscoring the role of genetics in shaping our destinies.
4. **Matthew 6:26** – “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” This verse implies that humans hold a special place in God’s creation, possibly hinting at unique genetic characteristics that separate us from other creatures.
5. **Luke 12:7** – “Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” This verse underscores God’s intimate knowledge of each individual, even down to the smallest genetic details like the number of hairs on our heads.
6. **1 Corinthians 6:19-20** – “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” This passage emphasizes the sacredness of our bodies, which are formed through genetic processes, and calls for respect and reverence towards them.
7. **Ephesians 2:10** – “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” This verse suggests that our genetic makeup is part of God’s design, shaping us for specific purposes and good works.
8. **Hebrews 2:11** – “Both the one who makes people holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters.” This verse alludes to the idea of a shared genetic connection among believers, metaphorically linking them as one family in Christ.
9. **James 2:26** – “As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.” This verse draws a parallel between the physical body and spiritual faith, suggesting a holistic view of human beings that includes both genetic and spiritual aspects.
10. **1 Peter 2:9** – “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” This verse speaks to the special status of believers in God’s eyes, hinting at the unique genetic makeup that sets them apart as a chosen people.
In conclusion, the Bible contains teachings and references that provide insight into the field of genetics and its connection to the divine design of creation. By exploring these verses, we can gain a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between genetics and the teachings of the Bible.
| Books | Verses |
|---|---|
| Genesis | 1:27 |
| Psalm | 139:13 |
| Jeremiah | 1:5 |
| Matthew | 6:26 |
| Luke | 12:7 |
| 1 Corinthians | 6:19-20 |
| Ephesians | 2:10 |
| Hebrews | 2:11 |
| James | 2:26 |
| 1 Peter | 2:9 |
Bible Verses About Birth Defects
Birth defects are a tragic reality for many families around the world. These abnormalities in a baby’s physical or mental development can be devastating for parents and can lead to a lifetime of challenges for the affected child. While medical science has made great strides in understanding and treating birth defects, many turn to their faith for comfort and guidance in times of struggle. The Bible offers wisdom and comfort for those dealing with the challenges of birth defects. Here are 12 verses that provide insight and encouragement:
1. Psalm 139:13-14
“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
2. Exodus 4:11
“The Lord said to him, ‘Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the Lord?'”
3. John 9:2-3
“His disciples asked him, ‘Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?’ ‘Neither this man nor his parents sinned,’ said Jesus, ‘but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.'”
4. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
5. Job 10:10-11
“Did you not pour me out like milk and curdle me like cheese, clothe me with skin and flesh and knit me together with bones and sinews?”
6. Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
7. Matthew 19:14
“Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.'”
8. Isaiah 45:9
“Woe to those who quarrel with their Maker, those who are nothing but potsherds among the potsherds on the ground. Does the clay say to the potter, ‘What are you making?’ Does your work say, ‘The potter has no hands’?”
9. Ephesians 2:10
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
10. 1 Corinthians 12:22
“On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable,”
These Bible verses offer hope and comfort to those dealing with the challenges of birth defects. They remind us that all life is precious and that God has a plan and purpose for each and every one of us, regardless of our physical or mental limitations.
Is Lilith in the Bible?
There is much debate among scholars and theologians about the existence of Lilith in the Bible. Lilith is a figure from Jewish folklore, often depicted as a demon or a night monster. Some believe she was Adam’s first wife before Eve, while others argue that she is merely a mythological character. In this article, we will explore the references to Lilith in the Bible and analyze their significance.
Biblical References to Lilith
1. Isaiah 34:14 – “And desert creatures will meet with hyenas, and goat demons will call out to each other; there also Liliths shall repose, and find a resting place for herself.”
2. Job 18:14 – “He is torn from the shelter of his tent and is brought to the king of terrors.”
3. Proverbs 30:15-16 – “The leech has two daughters. ‘Give, give,’ they cry. There are three things that are never satisfied, four that never say, ‘Enough!’: Sheol, the barren womb, the land never satisfied with water, and the fire that never says, ‘Enough.'”
4. Genesis 1:27 – “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.”
5. Genesis 2:21-22 – “So the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and he slept; then he took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh. And the rib that the Lord God had taken from the man he made into a woman and brought her to the man.”
Analysis of Biblical Verses
The references to Lilith in the Bible are ambiguous and open to interpretation. Some argue that Lilith is mentioned indirectly in passages that describe night creatures or demons. Others suggest that Lilith was Adam’s first wife who rebelled against him and was subsequently replaced by Eve. The creation story in Genesis also raises questions about the origins of Lilith and the role of women in the Bible.
| Arguments For Lilith | Arguments Against Lilith |
|---|---|
| 1. Lilith is mentioned in Jewish folklore and mysticism. 2. Lilith’s rebellious nature aligns with some interpretations of women in the Bible. | 1. There is no direct reference to Lilith in the canonical texts of the Bible. 2. Lilith’s existence may contradict traditional Christian teachings. |
In conclusion, the debate over Lilith’s presence in the Bible continues to be a topic of interest for scholars and believers alike. Whether Lilith is a real figure or a mythological character, her story raises important questions about gender, power, and divine creation in the Bible. By analyzing the biblical verses and stories mentioned above, we can gain a deeper understanding of this enigmatic figure and her significance in religious texts.
Many people wonder whether Lilith is mentioned in the Bible, and the answer is no. The name Lilith does not appear in the Christian Bible. However, it is important to note that Lilith is a prominent figure in Jewish folklore and mythology, and there are references to her in other ancient texts.
Adam and Lilith Family Tree
Due to the lack of direct biblical references to Lilith and her children, there is no specific family tree or genealogical information attributed to her in mainstream religious texts. The details regarding her descendants and their lineage primarily come from Jewish folklore and mythological traditions.
These accounts often describe Lilith’s offspring as demonic entities rather than human beings, further complicating any attempts to establish a concrete family tree.
It is important to approach the topic of Lilith’s family tree with an understanding of its mythical and symbolic nature, rather than seeking verifiable historical or genealogical records.
Bible Verses About Genetic Disorders
1. Genetics and the Bible
The topic of genetics and its relation to the Bible is a complex one. While the Bible does not specifically mention genetic disorders as we understand them today, it does provide insights into human nature, the value of life, and how we should treat those who are different or born with disabilities.
One key aspect to consider is that the Bible recognizes the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, regardless of their physical or genetic makeup. In Genesis 1:27, it states, “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” This verse emphasizes that all humans, regardless of any genetic abnormalities, are made in the image of God and therefore deserve respect and dignity.
The Bible also has examples of individuals who were born with physical or genetic differences and were still used by God for His divine purposes. For example, in Exodus 4:10-12, Moses expresses to God that he is “slow of speech and tongue.” Despite this genetic challenge, God still chose Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt and deliver His message to Pharaoh.
Additionally, genetic disorders can be seen as a result of living in a fallen world. Romans 8:22 says, “We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.” This verse suggests that as a consequence of sin, the entire creation, including our genetic makeup, experiences brokenness and imperfection.
2. What does the Bible say about altering your DNA?
The concept of altering one’s DNA was not something the biblical writers could have envisioned, as it is a relatively recent scientific advancement. However, the Bible does contain principles that can guide our ethical considerations in the field of genetic engineering.
One important principle is found in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, which states, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.” This verse reminds us that our bodies are sacred, and any modifications or alterations should be done with the intention of honoring God and preserving the sanctity of life.
Another key principle can be found in Genesis 1:31, “God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.” This verse affirms the inherent goodness of God’s creation, including our DNA. It reminds us to approach any alteration of our genetic material with caution and reverence, considering the potential consequences and ethical implications.
While the Bible does not specifically address the topic of altering one’s DNA, it provides a foundation of guiding principles that encourage us to carefully consider the ethical implications of such advancements in light of our faith.
3. Psalm 139 and Birth Defects
Psalm 139 is often referenced when discussing the topic of birth defects and genetic disorders. This beautiful psalm by King David reflects on the omniscience and presence of God in every aspect of our lives, including the formation of our bodies in the womb.
In verses 13-14, King David writes, “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” These verses remind us that God is intimately involved in our formation, and even if we are born with birth defects or genetic disorders, we are still fearfully and wonderfully made in His image.
Psalm 139 also emphasizes the sovereignty and purpose of God in our lives. Verse 16 states, “Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” This verse assures us that God has a plan and purpose for each individual, regardless of their genetic makeup or any physical differences.
When considering birth defects and genetic disorders, Psalm 139 offers comfort and affirmation that God is involved in our lives from the moment of conception and that He has a purpose for each person, regardless of their physical condition.
christian views on genetic engineering
Inherit The Earth Bible Verse
There are many Bible verses that speak to the concept of inheriting the earth. The idea of inheriting the earth is often associated with being blessed, favored, or victorious. Let’s explore some of these verses that shed light on this topic:
1. Psalm 37:29
- “The righteous shall inherit the land and dwell upon it forever.” – Psalm 37:29
2. Matthew 5:5
- “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” – Matthew 5:5
3. Proverbs 3:35
- “The wise shall inherit honor, but fools get disgrace.” – Proverbs 3:35
4. Proverbs 11:29
- “He who troubles his own household will inherit the wind, and the fool will be servant to the wise of heart.” – Proverbs 11:29
5. James 2:5
6. Psalm 25:13
7. Isaiah 60:21
- “Your people shall all be righteous; they shall possess the land forever, the branch of my planting, the work of my hands, that I might be glorified.” – Isaiah 60:21
8. Romans 4:13
9. Hebrews 6:12
- “So that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.” – Hebrews 6:12
10. Proverbs 13:22
- “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children, but the sinner’s wealth is laid up for the righteous.” – Proverbs 13:22
The apostle Paul states that we have a certain duty to care for the body (Ephesians 5:29). He also encouraged his protégé, Timothy, to take medicinal action for his infirmities (1 Timothy 5:23). Believers have the responsibility to use the body properly in that it is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19,20). We show our faith by offering assistance to those who have physical needs (James 2:16). Therefore, as Christians we should be concerned about the physical well-being of ourselves and others.
Creation was to be under the care of humans (Genesis 1:28; 2:15-20), but the Bible tells us that creation was impacted by our sin (Genesis 3:17-19, Romans 8:19-21) and anticipates being redeemed from sin’s effects. It is possible to conclude that, as caretakers of creation, humans have an obligation to “fix” the effects of the sin curse and attempt to bring things into a better alignment, using any means possible. Therefore, the thinking goes, any scientific advance can be used for the betterment of the creation. However, there are concerns regarding the use of genetic engineering to accomplish this good.
1. There is a concern that genetic engineering will take on a role beyond that which God has given to us as stewards of His creation. The Bible states that all things were created by God and for Him (Colossians 1:16). God designed all living things to reproduce after certain “kinds” (Genesis 1:11-25). Too much manipulation of the genetics (altering species) could be tampering with things reserved for the Designer.
2. There is a concern of genetic engineering attempting to preclude God’s plan for the restoration of creation. As already stated, the creation was affected by the events recorded in Genesis 3 (mankind’s rebellion against God’s plan). Death entered into the world, and man’s genetic make-up and that of the rest of creation began a change toward demise. In some instances, genetic engineering could be seen as an attempt to undo this result of sin called the “curse.” God has said that He has a remedy for this—redemption through Jesus Christ, as described in Romans 8 and 1 Corinthians 15. The creation anticipates newness associated with the culmination of God’s promise to restore things to an even better state than the original. To go “too far” to fight this process may compete with the responsibility of individuals to trust in Christ for restoration (Philippians 3:21).
3. There is a concern that genetic engineering may interfere with the God-ordained process of life. It seems evident from a general study of Scripture that God has a plan for the process of life. For example, Psalm 139 describes an intimate relationship between the psalmist and his Creator from the womb. Would the use of genetic manipulation to create life outside of God’s plan jeopardize the development of a God-conscious soul? Would interfering with the process of physical life affect the prospects of spiritual life? Romans 5:12 tells us that all humanity sins because Adam sinned. It is understood that this involved the transference of the sin nature from generation to generation so that all have sinned (Romans 3:23). Paul explains the hope of eternity through the conquering of Adam’s sin. If all that are in Adam (from his seed) die, and Christ died for those in such condition, could life created outside of that “seed” be redeemed? (1 Corinthians 15:22, 23).
4. There is a concern that a bold pursuit of advances in genetic engineering is motivated by a defiance of God. Genesis 11:1-9 shows what happens when the creation attempts to exalt itself above the Creator. The people in Genesis 11 were unified, yet they were not submissive to God. As a result, God stopped their progress. God certainly recognized that there were some dangers involved with the direction in which the people were headed. We have a similar warning in Romans 1:18-32. There God describes individuals that have become so enamored with the creation (actually worshiping it instead of the Creator) that they were brought to destruction. The fear is that genetic engineering could foster similar motivations, and ultimately, similar results.
These are questions and issues for which we have no answers at present, but they are concerns, and they should be carefully considered by Christians attempting to adopt a view of genetic engineering.
What Does The Bible Say About Altering Your DNA
1 Corinthians 15:38-39 ESV / 637 helpful votes
But God gives it a body as he has chosen, and to each kind of seed its own body. For not all flesh is the same, but there is one kind for humans, another for animals, another for birds, and another for fish.
Leviticus 19:19 ESV / 500 helpful votes
“You shall keep my statutes. You shall not let your cattle breed with a different kind. You shall not sow your field with two kinds of seed, nor shall you wear a garment of cloth made of two kinds of material.
Ecclesiastes 7:13 ESV / 366 helpful votes
Consider the work of God: who can make straight what he has made crooked?
Psalm 139:13-16 ESV / 192 helpful votes
For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.
Genesis 1:11-12 ESV / 191 helpful votes
And God said, “Let the earth sprout vegetation, plants yielding seed, and fruit trees bearing fruit in which is their seed, each according to its kind, on the earth.” And it was so. The earth brought forth vegetation, plants yielding seed according to their own kinds, and trees bearing fruit in which is their seed, each according to its kind. And God saw that it was good.
Matthew 15:13 ESV / 156 helpful votes
He answered, “Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be rooted up.
1 Corinthians 6:19 ESV / 142 helpful votes
Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own,
1 Timothy 4:4 ESV / 135 helpful votes
For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving,
Romans 1:22-23 ESV / 116 helpful votes
Claiming to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things.
Matthew 7:19 ESV / 109 helpful votes
Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.
Isaiah 17:10-11 ESV / 107 helpful votes
For you have forgotten the God of your salvation and have not remembered the Rock of your refuge; therefore, though you plant pleasant plants and sow the vine-branch of a stranger, though you make them grow on the day that you plant them, and make them blossom in the morning that you sow, yet the harvest will flee away in a day of grief and incurable pain.
Genesis 1:26-27 ESV / 103 helpful votes
Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
Colossians 1:16 ESV / 94 helpful votes Helpful Not Helpful
For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him.