Abortion is a highly controversial and emotionally charged issue, and it’s important for believers to understand what the Bible has to say about it. In this blog post, we will explore what the Bible teaches about abortion, and consider how we can approach this difficult issue in a way that is faithful to God’s Word.
- The Bible affirms the value and dignity of human life. From the very beginning, the Bible affirms the value and dignity of human life. In Psalm 139:13-16, we read, “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” This passage reminds us that God is the creator of life, and that every person is fearfully and wonderfully made in His image.
- The Bible prohibits the taking of innocent human life. The Bible also makes it clear that the taking of innocent human life is wrong. In the Ten Commandments, God says, “You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13). The Hebrew word used here, “ratsach,” refers to the intentional taking of innocent human life, and is a grave sin in the eyes of God. This prohibition against murder applies to all stages of life, including the pre-born.
- The Bible recognizes the personhood of the pre-born. In several places, the Bible recognizes the personhood of the pre-born child. For example, in Exodus 21:22-25, we read, “If men who are fighting hit a pregnant woman and she gives birth prematurely but there is no serious injury, the offender must be fined whatever the woman’s husband demands and the court allows. But if there is serious injury, you are to take life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, bruise for bruise.” This passage indicates that the pre-born child is considered a life, and that harm to the child is subject to the same penalties as harm to a born person. Similarly, in Luke 1:44, we see that the pre-born child John the Baptist recognized the presence of Jesus in the womb of his mother, Elizabeth, and “leaped for joy.” This suggests that the pre-born child is a person with feelings and emotions.
- The Bible calls for protection and care for the vulnerable. Throughout the Bible, we see God calling His people to protect and care for the vulnerable, including the pre-born. In Psalm 22:10, we read, “From birth I was cast upon you; from my mother’s womb you have been my God.” This passage reminds us that God is present with us from the moment of conception, and that He is our protector and provider from the very beginning of life.
In conclusion, the Bible affirms the value and dignity of human life, prohibits the taking of innocent human life, recognizes the personhood of the pre-born, and calls for protection and care for the vulnerable. As believers, it is important for us to consider these biblical principles when thinking about the issue of abortion. While the decision to have an abortion is a deeply personal one, we are called to make choices that honor God and reflect His character. This may mean seeking out resources and support to help us navigate difficult circumstances, or considering alternatives to abortion such as adoption. Above all, we must trust in God’s sovereignty and grace, and seek His guidance and wisdom as we navigate this complex and sensitive issue.
Keywords: abortion, Bible, life, abortion, sanctity of life, Psalm 139:13-16, Exodus 20:13, Exodus 21:22-25, Luke 1:44, Psalm 22:10
