Abortion is a deeply polarizing topic in our world today, but as followers of Christ, we look to the Word of God for truth. What does the Bible say about life, the unborn, and our responsibility as believers? Let’s explore Scripture, scientific evidence, and the ethical reality of abortion together.
God’s Image in Every Human Life
The Bible begins with a profound declaration in Genesis 1:27: “So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” This truth defines our value as human beings. We are made in God’s image, distinct from all creation. This isn’t a random biological occurrence; it’s divine intention. Every human life reflects the Creator, making each one sacred.
God Knows Us Before We Are Born
God’s Word shows His intimate knowledge of us, even before we enter this world. In Jeremiah 1:5, He says, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you.” This speaks of God’s purpose and plan for every person, crafted before we take our first breath. Psalm 139:13-14 echoes this truth: “For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” God’s creation is not an accident, and neither is the life growing within the womb.
Life in the Womb is Recognized by God
In Luke 1:41, we read a beautiful encounter: “And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb.” John the Baptist, still in his mother’s womb, responded to the presence of Jesus. This demonstrates that the unborn child is not a mere “fetus” but a living, spiritual being capable of responding to the presence of God.
Scientific Evidence of Life in the Womb
The term “fetus” comes from Latin, meaning “offspring” or “young one.” It does not denote a non-human entity; it is simply a stage of development, just like “infant” or “toddler.” By 21 days, the baby’s heart begins to beat. By 8 weeks, brain activity is detectable, and the baby has all major organs. By 12 weeks, the baby can respond to touch and feel pain. The evidence is clear: life begins at conception, and this life is active and developing long before birth.
God Hates the Shedding of Innocent Blood
The Bible explicitly condemns the taking of innocent life. In Exodus 20:13, the Lord commands, “You shall not murder.” Proverbs 6:16-17 lists “hands that shed innocent blood” as one of the things the Lord hates. Abortion is the deliberate termination of a life that God is actively forming. It is the shedding of innocent blood, and it stands in direct opposition to God’s commandment.
The Lies of the Abortion Industry
The abortion industry often markets itself as a champion of women’s health and freedom. Yet, the physical and emotional consequences tell a different story. Women who have had abortions can face severe physical complications like infection, hemorrhage, and even infertility. The psychological impact is profound, with many women experiencing long-term depression, anxiety, and a deep sense of loss. Abortion does not heal; it harms.
Healthcare Is Meant to Save Lives, Not End Them
We hear the argument that abortion is healthcare, but let’s consider what healthcare truly is. Healthcare is designed to preserve and protect life. It is contradictory to call the intentional ending of a human life “care.” Our legal system reflects this inconsistency: if a pregnant woman is harmed in an accident caused by a drunk driver, and the baby dies, it is often prosecuted as a double homicide. Yet, if the mother chooses to terminate the pregnancy, it is seen as a “right.” This logical inconsistency reveals the hypocrisy within the pro-abortion argument.
God Values Life, and So Should We
The Lord’s heart is for life. In Deuteronomy 30:19, He pleads with His people: “I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live.” The value God places on life is evident throughout Scripture. Children are seen as a gift, a blessing from the Lord (Psalm 127:3), and we are called to protect and cherish them.
My Final Thoughts
We live in a society that often disregards the sanctity of life, but we are called to be different. As Christians, we must stand up for the unborn, the voiceless, the ones who cannot defend themselves. Proverbs 31:8-9 instructs us: “Open your mouth for the speechless, in the cause of all who are appointed to die. Open your mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.” Defending life is not just a political stance—it’s a biblical mandate.
If you or someone you know has been affected by abortion, know this: the Lord’s grace and forgiveness are available. In 1 John 1:9, it says, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” God loves you deeply, and His heart is for restoration and healing.
