A Theological Evaluation of the Ethics of Modern Contraception: Implications for the Pentecostal Church of Rwanda (ADEPR) in Kigali City

Abstract

The use of artificial contraceptives has been controversial among Christians. This study sought to understand and then to offer a bible-based, theological, and ethical model suitable for members of the Pentecostal Church of Rwanda (ADEPR) in Kigali City about the use of artificial contraceptives.

The study began with an exegetical analysis of Psalm 127:3-5 which is among the most used biblical passages by the pro-natalists. The contextual analysis of Psalm 127 proved that the major theme is about trusting in God and not about supporting the pro-natalist view on the family. In addition, God is the ultimate giver of children who are the best blessings among the physical blessings that God gives to people. The study then proceeded with investigating the contextualization of the topic through the church history. Different views of theologians were critically analysed and compared. The study showed that the use of contraceptive methods has been largely rejected in the Church. Later, the Church’s position was challenged by the Enlightenment philosophy, scientific findings, feminist movements and Malthusian League in Europe. Protestant Churches have gradually embraced the supportive view on the use of modern contraceptives. Furthermore, the study found that female African theologians and feminists support the use of artificial contraceptives.

The study investigated the validity of different views regarding artificial contraceptives. The author found that many anti-contraceptive arguments are unfounded. It explored the biblical view about children and parental responsibilities. The study found that contraception is not explicitly discussed in the Bible. The author deduced that the legitimate use of contraceptives does not contradict the Bible. The study also suggested some practical guidelines regarding the use of artificial contraceptives as an effective way to promote the welfare of Christian families and society in general.The use of artificial contraceptives has been controversial among Christians. This study sought to understand and then to offer a bible-based, theological, and ethical model suitable for members of the Pentecostal Church of Rwanda (ADEPR) in Kigali City about the use of artificial contraceptives.

The study began with an exegetical analysis of Psalm 127:3-5 which is among the most used biblical passages by the pro-natalists. The contextual analysis of Psalm 127 proved that the major theme is about trusting in God and not about supporting the pro-natalist view on the family. In addition, God is the ultimate giver of children who are the best blessings among the physical blessings that God gives to people. The study then proceeded with investigating the contextualization of the topic through the church history. Different views of theologians were critically analysed and compared. The study showed that the use of contraceptive methods has been largely rejected in the Church. Later, the Church’s position was challenged by the Enlightenment philosophy, scientific findings, feminist movements and Malthusian League in Europe. Protestant Churches have gradually embraced the supportive view on the use of modern contraceptives. Furthermore, the study found that female African theologians and feminists support the use of artificial contraceptives.

The study investigated the validity of different views regarding artificial contraceptives. The author found that many anti-contraceptive arguments are unfounded. It explored the biblical view about children and parental responsibilities. The study found that contraception is not explicitly discussed in the Bible. The author deduced that the legitimate use of contraceptives does not contradict the Bible. The study also suggested some practical guidelines regarding the use of artificial contraceptives as an effective way to promote the welfare of Christian families and society in general.