In today’s world, families come in many different forms. But for children born outside of marriage, what does the Bible say? Are there any teachings or stories that speak to this situation, and how might they guide families today? Let’s explore this sensitive but important topic.
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What Does The Bible Say About Children Born Out Of Wedlock
Genesis 16:11
The angel of the Lord said to her, “You are now pregnant and you will give birth to a son. You shall name him Ishmael, for the Lord has heard of your misery.”
This verse tells the story of Hagar, who gave birth to Ishmael out of wedlock. It highlights God’s compassion and grace toward those in difficult circumstances.
The Lord acknowledges Hagar’s suffering and promises to bless her child despite the circumstances of his birth. This verse shows that God cares for all children, regardless of the circumstances of their conception, and demonstrates his ability to bring good out of challenging situations.
Matthew 1:18
This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit.
This verse reveals the extraordinary circumstances surrounding the birth of Jesus. Mary became pregnant through the Holy Spirit before she and Joseph were married, challenging societal norms of the time.
It highlights the miraculous nature of Jesus’ birth and emphasizes that God can work outside of human conventions. This verse assures us that God can use unexpected and unconventional situations to fulfill his divine plan.
John 8:41
You are doing the works of your own father.” “We are not illegitimate children,” they protested. “The only Father we have is God Himself.”
In this verse, Jesus confronts the religious leaders who claim to be descendants of Abraham and children of God. However, Jesus points out that their actions and attitudes reveal a different father – the devil.
This verse reminds us that being a child of God is not determined by human lineage or social status, but by having a genuine relationship with God and living in obedience to His word. It challenges us to examine our own hearts and actions to ensure that we are truly reflecting our heavenly Father.
Deuteronomy 23:2
No one born of a forbidden marriage nor any of their descendants may enter the assembly of the Lord, not even in the tenth generation.
This verse addresses the Israelites and outlines the consequences for those born out of certain prohibited unions. It restricts the participation of such individuals in the assembly of the Lord for ten generations, highlighting the importance of holiness and obedience to God’s law.
While this verse may seem harsh, it should be understood within the context of the Old Testament covenant and the specific regulations given to the Israelites. It serves as a reminder of the seriousness with which God views sin and the need for repentance and forgiveness.
1 Corinthians 7:14
For the unbelieving husband has been sanctified through his wife, and the unbelieving wife has been sanctified through her believing husband. Otherwise your children would be unclean, but as it is, they are holy.
This verse addresses the situation of a believer who is married to an unbeliever. It assures believers that their union sanctifies their spouse and children, declaring them holy.
It emphasizes the influence of a believer’s faith on their family and encourages believers to continue living out their faith in their relationships, trusting in the transformative power of God’s grace.
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.
This psalm celebrates the awe-inspiring work of God in creating each individual. It emphasizes that every human being, regardless of the circumstances of their birth, is fearfully and wonderfully made by God.
This verse encourages us to recognize the inherent value and dignity of every person, including children born out of wedlock. It challenges us to extend love, acceptance, and support to all individuals, recognizing that their worth is not determined by their family background but by being made in the image of God.
Matthew 18:10
“See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.”
Jesus speaks these words as he addresses the disciples’ question about who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. He emphasizes the importance of treating children with love and care.
This verse reminds us of the preciousness of all children, regardless of the circumstances of their birth. It calls us to protect, nurture, and value children, recognizing their significance in the eyes of God.
Proverbs 17:6
Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.
This proverb highlights the beauty and significance of the relationship between generations. It recognizes the blessings that children bring to their parents and grandparents.
Regardless of the circumstances of their birth, children born out of wedlock can still bring joy, fulfillment, and pride to their parents and grandparents. This verse serves as a reminder that family relationships, based on love and mutual support, should be cherished and celebrated.
Galatians 3:26
So in Christ Jesus, you are all children of God through faith.
This verse emphasizes the common identity that believers in Christ share – being children of God. It underscores the truth that our status as children of God is not determined by human circumstances or lineage, but by faith in Jesus.
Regardless of the circumstances of their birth, children born out of wedlock can still find acceptance and belonging in the family of God through faith in Christ. It offers hope and assurance that God’s love is available to all, regardless of their past.
2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
This verse speaks of the transformative power of Christ in the life of a believer. It declares that through faith in Jesus, we become new creations, free from the bondage of our past mistakes and circumstances.
Children born out of wedlock can find hope in this verse, knowing that through a personal relationship with Christ, they can experience a new beginning and a life filled with God’s grace, forgiveness, and purpose.
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.
This verse portrays God as the loving Father and Creator. It depicts humanity as his creation, shaped and formed by his hands.
Children born out of wedlock can find comfort and reassurance in knowing that regardless of the circumstances of their birth, they are still part of God’s grand design. They are precious in his sight and can trust in his plans and purposes for their lives.
Psalm 27:10
Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me.
This verse expresses the psalmist’s confidence in God’s unfailing love and acceptance, even in the face of abandonment or rejection by earthly parents.
Children born out of wedlock can take comfort in knowing that God’s love is unwavering. Even if they experience rejection or abandonment from their biological parents, they can find solace and belonging in the arms of their Heavenly Father, who is always ready to receive and embrace them.
Psalm 68:5
A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.
This verse affirms God’s character as a Father to the fatherless and a defender of those in vulnerable positions, including widows.
Children born out of wedlock can find solace and security in knowing that God is their ultimate Father. He will provide and care for them, fulfilling the role of a loving and protective parent even in the absence of an earthly father.
Ruth 4:13
So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. When he made love to her, the Lord enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son.
This verse recounts the story of Ruth, a Moabite woman who became the wife of Boaz and gave birth to Obed. Ruth’s union with Boaz demonstrates God’s ability to bring blessing and redemption in unexpected circumstances.
It serves as a reminder that God can work through the most unlikely situations, including children born out of wedlock, to accomplish His plans and bring about His promises.
Psalm 113:9
He settles the childless woman in her home as a happy mother of children. Praise the Lord.
This psalm praises God for His ability to bless those who are unable to bear children, granting them the joy of becoming parents.
Children born out of wedlock can take comfort in knowing that God has the power to grant joy and fulfillment to those who desire to be parents, regardless of the circumstances surrounding their conception. God can bring families together and bring happiness even in challenging situations.
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.”
In this verse, God speaks to the prophet Jeremiah, affirming His knowledge of Jeremiah’s existence even before his conception. God had a specific plan and purpose for Jeremiah’s life.
Children born out of wedlock can find assurance in knowing that God has a divine purpose for their lives, just as He did for Jeremiah. Despite the circumstances of their birth, they are known and loved by God, and He has a unique calling for each of them.
Psalm 127:3
Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.
This psalm acknowledges children as a precious gift from the Lord, a blessing to be cherished.
Children born out of wedlock are no exception to this truth. They are still valuable and cherished in the eyes of God. This verse encourages us to view all children as gifts to be treasured, regardless of the circumstances of their birth.
Proverbs 22:2
Rich and poor have this in common: The Lord is the Maker of them all.
This proverb reminds us that all people, regardless of their social or economic status, share a common Creator, the Lord.
Children born out of wedlock, regardless of the financial or material circumstances they may face, are equally loved and valued by God. It challenges us to look beyond societal distinctions and treat all individuals with dignity and respect.
Zechariah 8:5
The city streets will be filled with boys and girls playing there.
This verse paints a picture of a joyful and flourishing community, where children are seen playing freely in the streets.
Children born out of wedlock are part of God’s vision for a vibrant and thriving society. It reminds us that all children deserve the opportunity to experience joy and happiness, regardless of their family backgrounds.
Psalm 10:14
But you, God, see the trouble of the afflicted; you consider their grief and take it in hand. The victims commit themselves to you; you are the helper of the fatherless.
This verse reassures us of God’s care and compassion for the afflicted and the fatherless.
Children born out of wedlock can find comfort in knowing that God sees and understands their unique challenges. He is the ultimate helper and protector of the fatherless, promising to provide the support and love that they may need.
Isaiah 49:15
“Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you!”
This verse uses a powerful analogy to depict God’s unfailing love and care for His people. It highlights the deep bond between a mother and her child.
Children born out of wedlock can find solace in knowing that even if they experience rejection or neglect from their biological parents, God’s love is unchanging and steadfast. He will never forget or forsake them, providing the love and care they need as a perfect Father.
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.
This verse emphasizes personal accountability for sin and negates the idea that children bear the guilt or responsibility for their parents’ actions.
Children born out of wedlock should not be stigmatized or held accountable for the actions of their parents. They are to be treated as individuals, responsible for their own choices and actions. This verse reminds us of the importance of fairness and justice when considering the circumstances of their birth.