Sanctity Of Human Life

Biblical Definition Of Sanctity of Human Life

The sanctity of human life is the belief that life is inherently sacred, holy, and precious, and therefore deserves protection and respect regardless of condition or circumstance.

For eight years, Abby Johnson served as a clinic director for Planned Parenthood where she oversaw thousands of chemical and surgical abortions. But when Abby was called in to assist during an abortion one day, witnessing what really happens in the “procedure room,” this experience revealed the humanity and life present in the womb, leading Abby to believe she was on the wrong side of the abortion debate. Abby recognized the act as intentional and calls abortion what it is – murder. Confronting the burden of her own involvement in over 22,000 abortions while working at Planned Parenthood, Abby ultimately found healing and forgiveness through Jesus Christ.

Psalm 139:13

13 For you formed my inward parts;

you knitted me together in my mother’s womb.

Jeremiah 1:5

5 “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,

and before you were born I consecrated you;

I appointed you a prophet to the nations.”

Human life begins at conception.

Luke 1:41

41 And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit,

Luke 1:44

44 For behold, when the sound of your greeting came to my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.

Abortion is murder.

Genesis 9:6

6 “Whoever sheds the blood of man,

by man shall his blood be shed,

for God made man in his own image.

Proverbs 6:16–19

16 There are six things that the Lord hates,

seven that are an abomination to him:

17 haughty eyes, a lying tongue,

and hands that shed innocent blood,

18 a heart that devises wicked plans,

feet that make haste to run to evil,

19 a false witness who breathes out lies,

and one who sows discord among brothers.

Doctrine Of The Image Of God and Sanctity of Human Life

Just like last week, there is something more foundational to our identity than our gender, and that is we are made in the image of God.

There is also something more foundational to our identity than our practical usefulness, and that is we are made in the image of God.

Many people believe the lie portrayed by the media—that abortion is a painless, forgettable procedure—when, in reality, abortion leaves lasting emotional and mental scars on women. It's essential for those affected by abortion to share their stories, as these narratives can influence others to choose life.

The fundamental question in the abortion debate is whether a child has been created; if the answer is yes—which it is— then that life deserves protection.

Violence should never be the answer to violence; the focus should be on supporting women emotionally, mentally, and spiritually while caring for the life they carry.

The spiritual, physical, and emotional toll of abortion on women often goes unaddressed in churches, leaving many struggling with guilt and falsehoods.

A Biblical Response

Key Elements of a Christian Pregnancy Center:

Sanctity of Life Christian pregnancy centers are often pro-life, meaning they advocate for the protection and preservation of unborn human life. They view every pregnancy as part of God's plan and believe that each unborn child is created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27).

Compassion and Support These centers emphasize providing non-judgmental care and support to women during a difficult time. They offer counseling, education, and resources to help women make decisions that align with the value of life.

Holistic Care Many centers address the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the mother (and sometimes the father). They may offer services like pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, parenting classes, material support (e.g., baby clothes, diapers), and referrals for medical care or housing.

Empowerment Through Education Christian pregnancy centers often provide information on fetal development, parenting, and alternatives to abortion, such as adoption. Their goal is to empower women to make informed decisions that respect life.

Spiritual Encouragement Spiritual guidance is often a central part of the services provided. Women are offered prayer, Bible-based counseling, and encouragement to trust in God's provision and plan.

Community and Relationship These centers aim to foster ongoing relationships, offering continued support for women and their families. This may extend to postpartum care, mentorship, and connecting individuals with local churches or community resources.

In summary, Christian pregnancy centers operate with a biblical mission to support women, honor the sanctity of life, and reflect Christ's love through compassionate care. Their approach combines practical help with spiritual guidance to assist women in choosing life-affirming solutions.

The laws of a nation matter:

Proverbs 14:34

34 Righteousness exalts a nation,

but sin is a reproach to any people.

Gospel-Centered Compassion Tells The Truth About Sin and The Gospel

1 John 1:5–10

5 This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. 6 If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. 8 If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

Biblical compassion holding out the truth of sin and the gospel, never needing to minimize either one.