What is the LCMS stance on voluntary contraception?
A. The LCMS does not have an official position on “voluntary contraception” or voluntary childlessness. However, in its 1981 report on Human Sexuality: A Theological Perspective (which has been “commended to the Synod for study and guidance”–1983 Res. 3-15), the Synod’s Commission on Theology and Church Relations makes the following statement: In view of the Biblical command and the blessing to “be fruitful and multiply,” it is to be expected that marriage will not ordinarily be voluntarily childless. But, in the absence of Scriptural prohibition, there need be no objection to contraception within a marital union which is, as a whole, fruitful. Moreover, once we grant the appropriateness of contraception, we will also recognize that sterilization may under some circumstances be an acceptable form of contraception. Because of its relatively permanent nature, sterilization is perhaps less desirable than less-far reaching forms of contraception. However, there should be no moral objectio
