Bulletin Articles
Abortion
ABORTION
Abortion is the “induced premature termination of a pregnancy or development” (American Heritage Dictionary). Three key things are noteworthy in this definition: 1.) It is “induced,” which suggests it is a man-made phenomenon; 2.) it is “premature,” which means it occurs before the natural time and manner; and 3.) it is a “termination,” or the putting to an end of a pregnancy. Notice carefully, that according to the definition, we are NOT discussing what is sometimes called a “spontaneous” abortion (i.e., miscarriage). That is a circumstance which is beyond human control. Instead, we are discussing a “medical” abortion, which is performed by man. Both the doctor and the mother are active in making the decision, and terminating the pregnancy.
It should be obvious to anyone who respects the sanctity of life that abortion is murder! I make no apologies for saying this; it is simply a fact. It disturbs me greatly that our nation allows this practice (Note: even if Roe v. Wade gets overturned, abortion will still be legal in many states). In fact, there are about 4,500 abortions per day in this country. This is such a travesty, that I am amazed that God does not immediately put an end to our nation! And I have little doubt that He will at some point, if we do not repent of our national iniquity (cf. Amos 1:13). Let’s consider several reasons why abortion is sinful.
First, it is a manifestation of selfishness. When we consider some of the “reasons” cited for murdering a baby, the selfishness of the matter becomes very evident. For instance, some will say, “I can’t afford a baby right now,” which suggests that our personal economics takes precedence over the life of a human being. Others say, “I wanted a baby of a different sex,” in order to justify (?) killing their baby. Still others argue about how “inconvenient” it is to have a baby right now. But the Bible paints one who will not take care of his or her own as “worse than an unbeliever,” or atheist (1Tm.5:8). Nothing could be more selfish than to use such frivolous excuses to kill your own baby!
Second, it manifests “a lack of natural affection.” The Greek word, “astorgous,” means “hard-hearted towards kindred” (Strong). This word is used in Romans 1:31, and is translated “without natural affection” (KJV) or “unloving” (NKJV). There is a love which should “naturally” exist for kindred. Children naturally love their parents; and parents naturally love their children. But anyone who can go into an abortion mill and have their child ripped out and hacked to pieces is “hard-hearted towards kindred!” It is a sad commentary on the condition of a heart which could do such a thing (Rm.1:28-32).
Third, it is a blatant disregard for human life. Human life is special, being made in the image of God. God said, “Whoever sheds man's blood, by man his blood shall be shed; for in the image of God He made man” (Gn.9:6). The premeditated taking of human life is such a heinous act that it demands the death penalty! In Exodus 21:22-25, we see that those who brought death to an unborn child in the OT had to repay – “life for life.” And this brings us “full circle” to our main point about abortion: it is murder!
The Bible is clear that abortion is sinful. Yes, I realize that, on RARE occasions, there may no choice but to abort a baby in order to save the life of the mother (i.e., when both mother and child are dying and only one of them can be saved). But such extreme cases should not become the rule – and they do not in the eyes of God!
I repeat: this is a very emotional issue with some. That is precisely why we need to go to the word of God, seek the truth, and teach it with compassion for those who may be touched by these situations. Remember, that even if you are guilty of such sin, or condoning such sin, you can find forgiveness in Christ (Ac.2:38; 8:22). It is not my desire to “pile on” to people who have made this grievous mistake. Rather, I desire to prick hearts, and bring them to repentance. I also desire to inform those who may be unaware that the Bible does address such things very clearly. It is my hope that you will accept the truth about this matter, and teach it to others (2Tm.2:2).
--Lanny Smith
