Journal: Journal of Dispensational Theology
Volume: JODT 11:32 (Mar 2007)
Article: Martin Luther’s Argument For Procreation As A Creation Ordinance: A Response To Homosexuality
Author: Craig S. Freeman

JODT 11:32 (March 2007) p. 65

Martin Luther’s Argument For Procreation As A Creation Ordinance: A Response To Homosexuality

Craig S. Freeman

Ph.D. Cand., Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary

Identifying and developing a proper view of homosexuality as it applies to the global landscape, American society and culture, and the local church, has been the focal point of investigation by numerous researchers.1 There has been much debate in the public arena in addition to the Christian community of the question: “Based on preference or constitution, is homosexuality a permissible relationship?” As one attempts to identify and develop a proper view of homosexuality, one must understand biblical precepts regarding human sexuality, marriage, and procreation. Therefore, it is important to define the purpose and function of human sexuality, marriage, and procreation. Specifically, what is the purpose and function of “be fruitful, and multiply” (Gen 1:28b) in marriage? Martin Luther, one of the most influential theologians of the Protestant Reformation, viewed marriage and procreation as part of the created order.2 Indeed, Luther’s understanding of marriage and procreation allowed him to construct a cohesive view of the created order and its relation to God. Procreation is part of the created order––design––norm. However, such does not condemn those who are single, unable to procreate, or elderly to sin; yet, procreation is part of the created order––design. Therefore, the thesis of this article is that the purpose and function of “be fruitful, and multiply,” childbearing (1:28b), as argued by Martin Luther is defined by the covenantal, one-flesh union of one man and one woman in marriage which is modeled in the relationship of Christ and His church (Eph 5:25–33). Therefore, the conclusion one should make about “be fruitful, and multiply,”

JODT 11:32 (March 2007) p. 66

is that childbearing is by design of the created order––Creation Ordinance. Therefore, homosexuality is not a biblically permissible relationship, and rendered a myth. In order to properly analyze Martin Luther’s view on “be fruitful and multiply” (Gen 1:28b), this article will first identify and define three key terms: created male and female; marriage: one man and one woman; and, procreation.

Terms And Definitions

Created Male and Female

Concerning mankind, Luther wrote, “Man is a creature of God consisting of body and a living ...