Preacher's Notebook

It has always struck me as odd when I come across people who are so dogmatic and downright scary when it comes to the issue of abortion. The truth about the matter is simple: the bible does not address the issue of abortion. Nowhere in either the old or new testaments is the issue of terminating a pregnancy is specifically addressed. Many attempt to make murder the umbrella sin that covers their person feelings of animosity.

While I definitely believe that abortion is a tragedy, I also think it’s a tragedy how violent and downright murderous people of faith can be towards people who might need this option at some point in their life.

As I have prayed and wrestled in my spirit about what I believed about abortion I often back to the same basic question. When does life begin? Isn’t that the crux of the issue after all? In my years of study and service in the ministry I have only ever found one verse in all of holy writ that shines just a little light on the issue. At least it does for me. Consider this snippet of truth from Genesis:

And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.

Genesis 2:7 KJV

For me, this light breaks through some of the darkness that surrounds this issue. It seems pretty clear to me that life begins precisely at the point of the very first breath. I have paid more attention to this issue more recently because it seems like Roe v. Wade might be in serious trouble. This troubles me in my soul and spirit, but that will be another blog post for another day.

The truth is, in the 1960’s, this was not an issue that evangelical churches had a formal stand on. When pressed, Jerry Falwell told his congregation, from the pulpit on a Sunday morning, that if he really had to make a stand, he too believed that the scriptures taught that life began after the first breath.

Abortion is a tragedy. Especially when factor in issues that might involve the health and safety of child or mother. Not to mention pregnancies that might arise out of rape or incest. The decision for a mother to terminate a pregnancy should be left to her, her family, and her faith. God help us to live in your light and love. Amen.