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Spirit of Prophecy Policy
Since our church policy books are
silent on the subject, my thoughts turned toward the Spirit of Prophecy
writings. Ellen G. White's clear, forthright statements on parental
responsibility constituted the strongest evidence Adventists have in
favor of family planning.
I briefly described to Mr.
Ausherman the place and authority of the Spirit of Prophecy in the
Adventist Church. Then I proceeded to read to him the following
statement:
There are parents who, without
consideration as to whether or not they can do justice to a large
family, fill their houses with these helpless little beings, who are
wholly dependent upon their parents for care and instruction. . . . This
is a grievous wrong, not only to the mother, but to her children and to
society. --The Adventist Home, p. 162.
Before increasing their family,
they should take into consideration whether God would be glorified or
dishonored by their bringing children into the world. They should seek
to glorify God by their union from the first, and during every year of
their married life. They should calmly consider what provision can be
made for their children. They have no right to bring children into the
world to be a burden to others. Have they a business that they can rely
upon to sustain a family, so that they need not become a burden to
others? If they have not, they commit a crime in bringing children into
the world to suffer for want of proper care, food, and clothing. --Messages
to Young People, p. 462.
Those who are seriously deficient
in business tact, and who are the least qualified to get along in the
world, generally fill their houses with children; while men who have
ability to acquire property generally have no more children than they
can well
provide for. Those who
are not qualified to take care of themselves should not have children.
--The Adventist Home, p. 165. (Italics supplied.) (Cf. Adventists and Birth Control (Concluded) |