What is the Bible's stance on genetic engineering?

Definition and Overview

Genetic engineering refers to the direct manipulation of an organism’s genome by technological methods. This can involve modifying, adding, or removing genetic material. While the Bible was written in a historical context that predates modern genetics, its doctrinal principles speak to overarching issues of human responsibility, the sanctity of life, and the sovereignty of God over creation.

Humanity as God’s Image-Bearers

According to Scripture, humanity is uniquely created in the image of God. Genesis 1:26–27 states, “Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness…’ So God created man in His own image.” This sets humans apart from all other living creatures. Genetic engineering that involves human life must be viewed in light of this fundamental truth. Because each person reflects God’s image, care should be taken that any alteration to the human genetic makeup upholds rather than undermines the inherent value bestowed upon humanity by God.

Fearfully and Wonderfully Made

Psalm 139:13–14 says, “For You formed my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” The notion of being “fearfully and wonderfully made” underscores God’s intricate design in forming every individual. In considering genetic engineering, many draw upon this passage to emphasize that God’s creative act begins even before birth, and that meddling with the fundamental building blocks of life must not be done casually or with reckless motives.

The Dominion Mandate and Stewardship

Genesis 1:28 contains the so-called “Dominion Mandate,” where God blesses humanity and says, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it.” This has often been understood to include responsible development of technology and scientific exploration. Scripture affirms that God has entrusted humanity with wise stewardship of the earth’s resources. Genesis 2:15 also depicts humankind’s role “to cultivate and keep” the Garden of Eden. Therefore, prudent use of genetic research to feed populations, eradicate diseases, and alleviate suffering can be understood as part of faithful stewardship, provided it is done within ethical and biblical boundaries.

Caution Against Hubris

Even as we exercise stewardship over creation, Scripture warns against the pride that can accompany the pursuit of knowledge without regard for God’s moral framework. The story of the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11:1–9 reveals how humanity’s desire to “build ourselves a city and a tower with its top in the heavens, that we may make a name for ourselves” led to disorder and confusion. Whenever technological endeavors, including genetic engineering, become driven by the quest for human self-glorification, they risk crossing into territory that disregards God’s rightful place as Creator and sustainer.

Sanctity of Life

Biblical teaching consistently holds that human life is sacred, beginning in the womb. Jeremiah 1:5 declares, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you.” Luke 1:41 also depicts the unborn John the Baptist leaping for joy, demonstrating the personhood attributed to children in the womb. In considering genetic intervention, believers affirm that the life of every person—born or unborn—must be defended and respected. Genetic engineering aimed at eradicating certain diseases may reflect compassion, but interventions seeking to “improve” human traits for non-medical reasons can raise profound ethical concerns about commodifying and reshaping life according to human preferences, rather than receiving it as a gift from God.

Biblical Precedents and Principles of Mixing

While the Old Testament addresses agricultural crossbreeding (e.g., Deuteronomy 22:9–11), these commands primarily taught Israel to honor God’s distinctions and maintain holiness. Although these passages do not directly reference modern genetic engineering, they do underscore a principle of caution regarding tampering with creation beyond its natural boundaries. Believers must ensure that scientific pursuits respect God’s established order. Any attempts to mix or modify genetic material should be governed by a spirit of reverence and respect for the One who ordained creation’s patterns.

Redemptive Intent of Science and Healing

The Bible contains numerous accounts of God bringing healing through various means, from Naaman’s cleansing in the Jordan (2 Kings 5:14) to Jesus’ miracles of restoration and health (Matthew 4:23). Science can be a tool for alleviating the effects of the Fall, such as genetic diseases that cause suffering. When directed toward redemptive, healing purposes, genetic engineering may reflect compassion and align with the biblical command to love our neighbor (Mark 12:31). However, believers are called to discern the intention, scope, and long-term implications of such endeavors, seeking always to honor God’s design and biblical ethics.

Moral and Ethical Responsibilities

Scripture gives insight into moral boundaries, cautioning that not all that is technically possible is ethically permissible (1 Corinthians 10:23: “All things are lawful, but not all things are beneficial…”). A responsible approach to genetic engineering must weigh potential benefits against potential abuses. Will this technology serve to heal and serve others, or is it a pathway to control or reshape human life for personal gain? By keeping biblical principles in focus, believers can discern between compassion-driven research and manipulations that undermine the dignity or worship of God.

Summary and Conclusion

While the Bible does not directly mention “genetic engineering,” it provides guiding principles for believers:

• Recognize that humanity is made in God’s image, deserving of dignity and respect.

• Acknowledge God’s handiwork in each human life as “fearfully and wonderfully made.”

• Exercise responsible dominion and stewardship over creation for the good of all, including ethical scientific endeavors.

• Guard against pride and self-glorification, remembering that God is the Creator.

• Uphold the sanctity of all human life from conception onward.

• Implement wisdom and discernment, letting biblical ethics shape the use of technological advances for healing rather than harm.

These principles form the foundation for a thoughtful and faithful approach to genetic engineering. While there may be a place for science to cooperate with God’s redemptive and healing purposes, caution is warranted to ensure that God’s design and glory remain preeminent in all such endeavors.