According to the primary source for research and statistics on abortion, the Guttmacher Institute, approximately 862,000 abortions were performed in the United States in 2017. This number shocks many who hear it, but it is truly alarming to learn that this number represents a historic low in our country. What’s more, based on data collected in 2014, 54% of women having abortions identified themselves as “Christian” (of some variety). Life in the womb is a precious blessing from God, but mankind is so skilled at neglecting and discarding God’s blessings.
God has revealed His interest in and care for life in the womb. Psalmists and prophets alike point to God’s knowledge of each unborn human being. Truly, God has wonderfully made every baby and seen their substance (Psa 139:13-16). He can see the entirety of each life and desires that all would be His faithful servants (Isa 49:1-5; Jer 1:4-5). What do we desire for our children? Should our view of life really be so different from God’s?
The New Testament shows that a life is a life, whether born or unborn. When honest hearts examine God’s Word, they find this truth! The Greek word “brephos” means infant, babe, or child. God uses this same term when describing John before he is born (Luke 1:41), Jesus after He is born (Luke 2:12, 16), and Timothy’s period of childhood (2 Tim 3:15). Notice for Timothy, he has reached an age where he can receive an education. How can we say killing a school-age child is murder, but killing an unborn child is permissible?
The Bible expresses the great value of life. The fruit of the womb is God’s reward, a blessing like fruitful plants (Psa 127:3; 128:3-4). The first mother rightly declared, “I have acquired a man from the Lord” (Gen 4:1). We show our love and appreciation for God based on how we treat what He has given us. It seems unusual to find the word “hate” in connection with our loving God. Yet, among the list of what the Almighty hates we read, “hands that shed innocent blood” (Prov 6:16-19). This phrase certainly applies in other areas, but how could it not apply to abortion? And what can one say about a people who destroy the gifts God sends them?
Our nation has a serious sin problem (Prov 14:34), but we cannot attack abortion clinics and should not shun those who have had abortions. Adding sin on top of sin benefits no one (Rom 12:17-21). We can all be washed, sanctified, and justified if we will obey the gospel (1 Cor 6:9-11). I believe a child of God must consider life when he or she prays for our nation and its leaders. We must consider life when voting in elections. We must consider life when deciding how we will treat those who may be pregnant and scared. This can also be powerful motivation for evangelism. As we share the gospel, we want others to submit to God and align their thinking with His. Let’s all make it our goal to hold and teach God’s view on life.
Link for statistics source: https://www.guttmacher.org/fact-sheet/induced-abortion-united-states
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