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**EDWARD D. ANDREWS** (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 200+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).

The question of how the Bible provides general principles regarding medical technology that apply to genetic technologies is an important one that has become increasingly relevant in our modern world. Conservative Christian apologists would argue that the Bible provides several general principles that can guide our use of medical technology, including genetic technologies.

One of the key principles that conservative Christian apologists would emphasize is the value of human life. The Bible teaches that human beings are created in the image of God and have inherent value and dignity. This principle is reflected in passages such as Genesis 1:26-27, which says that God created human beings in his own image, and Psalm 139:13-16, which emphasizes the value of human life from the moment of conception.

Conservative Christian apologists would argue that this principle applies to genetic technologies, as they have the potential to impact human life in significant ways. Genetic technologies can be used to diagnose and treat genetic diseases, but they can also be used for other purposes, such as selecting the traits of future children. The principle of valuing human life would guide our use of genetic technologies, ensuring that they are used in ways that promote the well-being of individuals and society as a whole.

Another principle that conservative Christian apologists would emphasize is the importance of stewardship. The Bible teaches that human beings are stewards of God’s creation and are responsible for using it in ways that honor God and promote the common good. This principle is reflected in passages such as Genesis 2:15, which says that God put Adam in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it, and 1 Corinthians 4:2, which says that stewards must be found faithful.

Conservative Christian apologists would argue that this principle applies to genetic technologies, as they are a part of God’s creation that we have been entrusted with. Stewardship would guide our use of genetic technologies, ensuring that they are used in ways that are responsible, sustainable, and respectful of the natural order.

A third principle that conservative Christian apologists would emphasize is the importance of respecting the natural order. The Bible teaches that God has created the world with a certain order and design and that human beings are responsible for respecting and preserving that order. This principle is reflected in passages such as Psalm 19:1-4, which speaks of the heavens declaring the glory of God, and Romans 1:20, which speaks of God’s invisible attributes being clearly seen in the things that have been made.

Conservative Christian apologists would argue that this principle applies to genetic technologies, as they have the potential to disrupt the natural order of creation. Genetic technologies can be used to manipulate the genetic makeup of organisms in ways that may not be consistent with the natural order. Respecting the natural order would guide our use of genetic technologies, ensuring that they are used in ways that preserve and enhance the natural order rather than disrupt it.

A final principle that conservative Christian apologists would emphasize is the importance of discernment. The Bible teaches that human beings are called to exercise discernment in their actions and decisions and to seek wisdom and guidance from God. This principle is reflected in passages such as Proverbs 2:1-6, which speaks of the importance of seeking wisdom and understanding, and James 1:5, which says that if anyone lacks wisdom, they should ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach.

Conservative Christian apologists would argue that this principle applies to genetic technologies, as they are complex and often difficult to understand. Discernment would guide our use of genetic technologies, ensuring that we exercise caution and seek guidance and wisdom from God in our decisions.

In conclusion, the Bible provides several general principles that can guide our use of medical technology, including genetic technologies. These principles emphasize the value of human life, the importance of stewardship, the need to respect the natural order, and the importance of discernment. Conservative Christian apologists would argue that these principles provide a framework for approaching genetic technologies in responsible, sustainable, and respectful ways of God’s creation. By following these principles, we can ensure that our use of genetic technologies aligns with God’s will and promotes the well-being of individuals and society as a whole.