SIMPLE REASONING ABOUT A BARBARIC PRACTICE: ABORTION (Part 2)
Today we continue our discussion about abortion…
WHEN DOES LIFE BEGIN?
This question is crucial to evaluating the morality of abortion. If life has not begun when abortion is performed, who could argue against it?
The truth is, however, that even the scientific community (which is sometimes not so scientific) generally accepts that when the DNA of a mother and father comes together, a new individual or life is “born” (or conceived). This certainly adds another dimension to the previous argument about a woman’s body. If it were indeed so that a woman had total authority as to what she did with her own body, it still could be argued that there was something inside her that had it’s own identity; something that was dependent upon her, but also very distinct from her.
Psalms 139:13-15 says, “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; Marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well. My frame was not hidden from You. When I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.”
Note, of course, that personhood is attributed to the unborn. The Scripture frequently gives names to those yet born (see Gen. 17:19; Jer. 1:5; Lk. 1:13; Mt. 1:21). The unborn have a distinct identity and personhood of their own.
To seek to identify any other point (aside from conception) as the point at which life begins, is thoroughly subjective and lacking in scientific principle.
BUT WE AREN’T READY TO HAVE A BABY
One can hardly doubt the frequent reality of this statement. Of course, the problem is not the baby. The problem is that the couple engaged in activity that naturally resulted in the situation they find themselves in. We should always be willing to accept the consequences of the actions we take. If one jumps from an airplane, it will work out much better if he has thoughtfully prepared for his landing! The sexual relationship between man and woman is a serious matter. It should be engaged in according to God’s plan (Heb. 13:4) and also with sobriety and planning.
It is true that a person, or a couple, may lack the maturity or financial resources that should exist to be a parent. In some cases an individual or couple desires to pursue further education or a career, and they see the coming of a baby as an impediment to their goals. Again, that should have been considered beforehand, but at this point, it’s too late. What should they do?
While these and other circumstances might bring difficulties, difficulties can be overcome. Such difficulties, when coupled with great effort and prayer, can lead to spiritual growth (see James 1:2-5). Often through hard work a couple is able to better their financial circumstances. There are also educational opportunities that oftentimes may still be pursued. But it is important to note that one’s ambitions and goals may also need to be changed or adjusted. And, after all, what could be more significant than raising a precious child, and raising him or her to know the Lord!
Many have help in different forms available to them, though care should be used in placing too much burden on others. Though it may be difficult, it is vital that a person in this situation bears their own burden as much as possible (see Gal. 6:7). When we do the right thing, and seek to bear our own load, God will be our help and He will provide!
Our study of this theme will continue next week.
Daren Schroeder
