Walking through Infertility: Biblical, Theological, and Moral Counsel for Those Who Are Struggling

“This book was written to help you see and understand that God is the Giver of life. You are his child. He cares deeply about you. When you hurt, he hurts with you.” —from the Introduction

Infertility is the profoundly wounding experience of many couples, often leading to feelings of despair and shame as they grapple with shattered dreams and unanswered questions. But God does not leave them alone in their pain. The Creator and Redeemer of life has not forsaken the infertile, but has called and equipped them to participate in his church, kingdom, and mission.

Overflowing with warmth and sensitivity, this book explores what the Bible says about infertility, helping the church walk alongside couples struggling with infertility and assessing the ethical issues surrounding common fertility treatments and reproductive technologies.

“Infertility is painful. In these pages, Matthew Arbo gives biblical insight and wise counsel, offering both comfort and hope for those on this difficult journey. Walking through Infertility goes deeper than the superficial clichés couples often hear, which, though intended to comfort, can hurt. Arbo frames infertility within the biblical narrative, where it is actually quite common and significant—we find we are not alone. Additionally, he helps those navigating some of the complex ethical decisions made possible by modern technology for dealing with infertility—we are not without guidance. Ultimately, he points to our comfort in the community of the church and our hope in the God of life.”
Joshua Ryan Butler, Pastor, Imago Dei Community, Portland, Oregon; author, The Skeletons in God’s Closet and The Pursuing God

“I am glad to commend Matthew Arbo’s Walking through Infertility both to couples going down this road and to the friends, family members, and professionals who walk this road with them. It is sensitively done, and full of wisdom and insight about what these couples are facing. It’s a worthwhile resource, which I will often consult.”
Scott B. Rae, Professor of Christian Ethics, Talbot School of Theology, Biola University

“Walking through Infertility is a resource I wish had been available when we walked through our own struggles with infertility. In an age of increasing medical advancement, the options for couples are numerous and often overwhelming. Matthew Arbo has provided a helpful resource for couples as they consider what the Bible has to say about infertility and how God’s Word speaks to the various treatments out there. But Arbo also speaks to church leaders, who are often left wondering how to counsel those under their care. This is a needed book and I’m glad it’s finally here.”
Courtney Reissig, author, Glory in the Ordinary and The Accidental Feminist

Contents

Foreword by Karen Swallow Prior
Introduction: A Modern Story of Infertility

1. Stories of Infertility and God’s Abiding Promise
2. Christian Discipleship and Human Affection
3. The Vitality and Consolation of the Church
4. A Moral Appraisal of Infertility Treatment

Appendix: Interview with Patrick and Jennifer Arbo
Notes
General Index
Scripture Index