The label of “illegitimate” is a painful reminder of societal stigma that has no place in modern society. Every child, regardless of their circumstances of birth, deserves love, respect, and the chance to thrive. It’s time to break down these outdated notions.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Dating A Non Christian
What Does The Bible Say About Illegitimate Child
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 verse emphasizes the intrinsic value of every life, regardless of circumstances of conception. It reassures us that every child, including those born out of wedlock, is known and cherished by God.
Recognizing that every individual is “fearfully and wonderfully made” encourages acceptance and love for all people, supporting a view that God has a purpose for each life.
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 reveals that God’s knowledge and purpose for individuals begin even before birth. It affirms that children born out of wedlock, like all children, are known and valued by God.
God’s plans for each person are ancient and rooted deep in love, demonstrating that one’s origin does not define their worth or potential in His eyes.
Isaiah 44:24
“This is what the LORD says—your Redeemer, who formed you in the womb: I am the LORD, the Maker of all things, who stretches out the heavens, who spreads out the earth by myself.”
Here, we see God declaring Himself as the Creator, emphasizing that He formed each individual in the womb. This gives hope and dignity to every child, regardless of their beginnings.
It reassures us that God’s creative touch is present in every life, encouraging acceptance and the understanding that He has purpose for all, irrespective of circumstances.
Galatians 4:4-5
“But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.”
This passage highlights the mystery of God’s timing and the redemptive power through Jesus. It signifies how God values familial relationships and is not limited by human standards.
Every child, including those viewed through a societal lens as “illegitimate,” is a part of God’s redemptive plan and can be adopted into His family through Christ.
John 3:16
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
This verse is a powerful reminder of God’s unconditional love. It declares that His love extends to everyone, emphasizing that a person’s value isn’t diminished by their birth circumstances.
God’s sacrificial love is the same for every individual, further indicating that every life holds significance in His eyes, fostering hope for those who feel marginalized.
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.”
In this verse, we find comfort in knowing that God’s sovereignty prevails, working all situations for good. This assures us that even difficult beginnings can lead to fulfilling purposes.
It fosters the understanding that life circumstances, including those surrounding the conception of a child, do not define their future or God’s ability to work in their lives.
Isaiah 49:1
“Listen to me, you islands; hear this, you distant nations: Before I was born the LORD called me; from my mother’s womb he has spoken my name.”
This verse underscores that God’s call upon a person’s life can begin even before they are born. It reassures us that every individual has purpose and destiny in God’s plan, regardless of their origin.
Knowing that God has a calling for each person affirms the belief that illegitimacy does not determine a person’s potential in God’s eyes but rather amplifies their unique journey.
Psalms 27:10
“Though my father and mother forsake me, the LORD will receive me.”
This verse reminds us of God’s steadfast acceptance and love, even when earthly relationships may fail. It offers solace to those who feel abandoned due to their beginnings.
No matter the circumstances surrounding one’s birth, God’s embrace overrules any familial neglect, illustrating that love and worth come from Him, not human standards.
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.”
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of every child, urging us to value them. He reinforces that every child, regardless of how they come into the world, holds a special place in God’s kingdom.
This teaches us to foster love, compassion, and a sense of belonging for all children, echoing the truth that each life is precious to God.
Luke 18:16
“But Jesus called the children to him and said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.’
Jesus’ invitation to children displays His heart for the marginalized, emphasizing their value in society. This serves as an affirmation that every child, including those born outside of marriage, is precious to Him.
Highlighting that God’s kingdom belongs to such as these encourages acceptance and love, affirming that they are welcomed in God’s family.
Proverbs 22:6
“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”
This verse speaks to the importance of guidance and nurturing in a child’s life. It emphasizes that every child deserves the opportunity to be guided in faith and righteousness, no matter their background.
It prompts a commitment to investing in the spiritual and moral upbringing of children, highlighting that every effort can lead them toward a fulfilling relationship with God.
2 Samuel 12:13-14
“Then David said to Nathan, ‘I have sinned against the LORD.’ Nathan replied, ‘The LORD has taken away your sin. You are not going to die. But because by doing this you have shown utter contempt for the LORD, the son born to you will die.’
This story reflects the complexity of life’s situations and God’s grace in our failures. It illustrates that while we may face consequences for sin, God’s love remains and offers redemption.
It reassures us that even through difficult circumstances—including those resulting from sin—God’s grace and forgiveness are always available, and He can bring hope out of despair.
Mark 10:14
“When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.’
Jesus again stresses the importance of children, asserting that they hold immense value in the eyes of God. His indignation towards those who hinder children serves as a reminder that every child deserves access to His love.
This reinforces the idea that no child, including those born out of wedlock, should ever be marginalized or excluded from God’s family and His kingdom.
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.’
Jesus’ words here emphasize the pure and innocent nature of children, valuing their place in His kingdom. It encourages a nurturing environment for every child, particularly those who may face judgment or social stigmas.
It teaches us to cultivate a heart of welcome, especially for children in challenging circumstances, affirming their inherent value in God’s eyes.
Romans 5:8
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
This verse showcases God’s profound love, which exists irrespective of moral standing. It reassures us that God’s grace isn’t conditional, promising that every individual, including those born out of wedlock, is worthy of His love.
Understanding God’s love in this light fosters compassion and acceptance, reinforcing that every person can find redemption and purpose in Him.
Psalm 23:1
“The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.”
This verse expresses God’s provision and guidance. It reassures us that He cares deeply for all, nurturing every individual, regardless of how they came into the world.
His role as a shepherd reflects a divine commitment to lead, protect, and provide so that every individual can thrive, bringing comfort to those who may feel neglected.
Lamentations 3:22-23
“Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
This passage highlights God’s unwavering compassion and mercy. It reminds us that regardless of anyone’s background, His grace is fresh every day, renewing hope and purpose.
It encourages us to embrace every individual with the same love and compassion that God extends, promoting acceptance and understanding of their inherent worth.
Matthew 5:14
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”
In this verse, Jesus indicates that each person holds the potential to be a beacon of light. Regardless of their background, children born out of wedlock can become significant influencers in their communities.
This inspires a mindset of hope and possibility, affirming that every individual has the capacity to shine brilliantly in God’s kingdom.
1 Corinthians 1:27
“But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.”
This verse illustrates how God values what the world might reject. It encourages us to see every child’s potential, irrespective of societal labels, and highlights that God often elevates the overlooked.
It serves as a reminder that each person has a unique role in God’s grand narrative, capable of achieving greatness through divine purpose.
1 John 3:1
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!”
This verse encapsulates the depth of God’s love for humanity. It affirms that everyone, regardless of their birth circumstances, has the privilege of being called a child of God.
This identity brings security and belonging, encouraging acceptance and compassion among all, particularly towards those labeled as illegitimate.
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
Paul reflects on the transformative power of Christ in the life of a believer. This change is available to everyone, indicating as long as one is in Christ, their past does not dictate their future.
This speaks to the hearts of those who might struggle with their identity, reassuring that God can redefine their future and purpose, creating a new identity filled with hope and promise.
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
This verse focuses on the empowering relationship believers have with Christ. No matter their background, including children born out of wedlock, they can tap into God’s strength for their life’s journey.
This empowers individuals to rise above challenges and realize that they are capable of achieving great things with God’s help.
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.”
Peter paints a beautiful picture of belonging and purpose for every believer. This is true for everyone, regardless of their origins or societal labels, implying that they are part of God’s family.
Every individual is chosen and valued, urging us to approach every person with love, understanding that they too can declare God’s praises through their lives.
Each scripture is not only an affirmation of God’s love for individuals but serves as a powerful reminder that circumstances around a child’s birth shouldn’t determine their worth or the love they receive. In fact, these scriptures call us to embody Christ’s love and grace, welcoming every individual into the fold of acceptance that God offers to everyone through Jesus Christ.