1. God is the originator of all life; therefore, life is sacred (Psalm 139, Job 31:15).
2. Human life was created in the image of God (Genesis 1:26).
3. Human life begins at conception (Psalm 139:13-16). Any method of contraception that interferes with the healthy development of a fertilized egg (a "zygote") should be avoided.
4. God has given humankind authority, responsibility, and guardianship to protect human life (Genesis 1:26 and Exodus 20:13).
5. Scripture doesn't specifically address contraception, but theologians over the years have reasoned through it.
6. We must embrace a biblical view of children. While the culture tells us children can be a burden, the Bible makes it clear they are a gift.
7. The biblical command is to be fruitful and multiply (Genesis 1:28). This is one of God's purposes for marriage. Though some couples will deal with infertility, nowhere in Scripture is there any indication that couples can choose on their own not to have any children. In cases of infertility, adoption should be a prayerful alternative.
8. Contraception needs to be prayerfully determined by you as a couple. There is no specific instruction in Scripture about the size of a family. Make your decisions based on guidance from God and His Word, and not from the principles of the world (Romans 12:1-2).
9. Your convictions should not be used as a spiritual club on others. Be careful not to be judgmental of others.

©2002 FamilyLife.  Taken from A Biblical Approach to Family Planning audio series.