Counsel #3 — Embryo Status

Picture: Counsel #3 — Embryo StatusCSe 105.1

From a Christian perspective, human life is often considered to begin at conception when a new, unique human being comes into existence as the sperm fertilizes an egg. This belief has significant implications for ethical discussions surrounding issues such as embryonic stem cell research.CSe 105.2

Specifically, the creation of embryos through cloning or genetic engineering raises complex moral questions. While these technologies offer potential benefits, they also introduce ethical concerns related to the value and purpose of human life. Christians may grapple with the idea of creating human life for specific purposes, such as research or selective breeding, as this could be seen as devaluing the inherent dignity of human life. Additionally, the potential for misuse of these technologies, such as the creation of human-animal hybrids or designer babies, raises further ethical concerns.^{[104]https://www.journalofadventisteducation.org/en/2018.2.6}CSe 105.3

“Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them.” Psalms 139:16 NKJVCSe 105.4

“The mechanism of the human body cannot be fully understood; it presents mysteries that baffle the most intelligent. It is not as the result of a mechanism, which, once set in motion, continues its work, that the pulse beats, and breath follows breath.... The beating heart, the throbbing pulse, every nerve and muscle in the living organism, is kept in order and activity by the power of an ever-present God.” Ellen White in The Ministry of Healing, p. 417CSe 105.5

Reflect: Do you believe human life is sacred from its earliest stages? Why or why not?CSe 105.6