What does the Bible say about having a baby out of wedlock?
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The Bible teaches that sexual intimacy belongs within marriage, yet a child conceived outside marriage is fully made in God’s image, precious to him, and must never bear shame or punishment for a parent’s sin. Deuteronomy 23:2 reflects old covenant laws concerning Israel’s assembly, but in Christ those who come by faith are welcomed rather than excluded. John 3:16-17 declares God’s saving love for sinners and his purpose to save through his Son. Parents should repent where needed, seek forgiveness, and faithfully provide for and nurture their child, as 1 Timothy 5:8 teaches. Hebrews 12:8 reminds believers that God’s fatherly discipline is meant to restore, not condemn.
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Deuteronomy 23:2 4 votes
A bastard shall not enter into the assembly of Yahweh; even to the tenth generation shall none of his enter into the assembly of Yahweh.
- John 3:16-17 3 votes
[16] For God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life. [17] For God didn't send his Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world should be saved through him.
- Revelation 1:1 3 votes
This is the Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things which must happen soon, which he sent and made known by his angel to his servant, John,
- 1 Timothy 5:8 3 votes
But if anyone doesn't provide for his own, and especially his own household, he has denied the faith, and is worse than an unbeliever.
- Hebrews 12:8 2 votes
But if you are without discipline, of which all have been made partakers, then are you illegitimate, and not children.
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