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Writer's pictureEdward D. Andrews
Jul 257 min read

What Does the Bible Say About Abortion?

Introduction to the Biblical Perspective on Abortion


Abortion, a topic of significant ethical and moral debate, involves the deliberate termination of a pregnancy. With tens of millions of unborn babies aborted each year, the issue raises profound questions about the sanctity of life, human rights, and moral responsibilities. The Bible, while not explicitly mentioning abortion, provides clear principles regarding the value of human life that help us understand God's perspective on this critical issue.



The Sanctity of Human Life


The Bible consistently affirms the sanctity of human life, beginning at conception. Life is a precious gift from God, and this principle extends to the unborn child.


Life as a Gift from God


Genesis 9:6 states, "Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed, for God made man in his own image." This verse underscores the inherent value of human life, which is created in the image of God. Similarly, Psalm 36:9 declares, "For with you is the fountain of life; in your light do we see light." These passages highlight that life originates from God and is sustained by Him, making it sacred.


The Unborn Child in the Womb


The Bible provides specific insights into God's view of the unborn child. Psalm 139:13-16 offers a profound reflection on God's intimate involvement in the creation of life: "For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them." This passage illustrates that God sees and values the unborn child as a unique individual from conception.


Jeremiah 1:5 further emphasizes this point: "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." Here, God acknowledges Jeremiah's personhood and purpose even before his birth, indicating that life begins at conception.



The Moral Implications of Abortion


Given the biblical affirmation of the sanctity of life and the recognition of the unborn child as a person, abortion raises serious moral concerns.


The Commandment Against Murder


The Bible's prohibition against murder applies to the unborn child. Exodus 20:13 simply states, "You shall not murder." This commandment underscores the value of human life and the moral duty to protect it. When abortion is considered in light of this commandment, it becomes clear that intentionally terminating a pregnancy constitutes taking an innocent life, which is forbidden by God.


Legal Protections for the Unborn


The Mosaic Law includes specific provisions that protect the life of the unborn child. Exodus 21:22-23 provides a case law regarding harm to a pregnant woman: "When men strive together and hit a pregnant woman, so that her children come out, but there is no harm, the one who hit her shall surely be fined, as the woman's husband shall impose on him, and he shall pay as the judges determine. But if there is harm, then you shall pay life for life." This passage indicates that causing harm to an unborn child is a serious offense, underscoring the value of the unborn life in God's eyes.



When Does Human Life Begin?


The Bible consistently portrays human life as beginning at conception. Several passages support this view, indicating that God sees the unborn child as a distinct person.


Divine Knowledge and Purpose Before Birth


Psalm 139:16 affirms that God knows and values the unborn child: "Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them." This verse indicates that God recognizes and plans for the unborn child's life from the moment of conception.


Similarly, Jeremiah 1:5 emphasizes God's knowledge and purpose for the unborn: "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." This passage highlights that God's relationship with the unborn child begins before birth, confirming the personhood and value of the unborn.


The Unborn as Persons in the New Testament


The New Testament also affirms the personhood of the unborn. Luke 1:41 describes John the Baptist's reaction in the womb: "And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit." The Greek word used for "baby" in this passage is the same word used for a newborn child, indicating that the unborn John was recognized as a person.



God's Forgiveness for Those Who Have Had an Abortion


The Bible offers hope and forgiveness to those who have had an abortion and are seeking repentance.


God's Compassion and Grace


Psalm 103:8-12 assures us of God's compassionate and forgiving nature: "Jehovah is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness. He will not always find fault, nor will he keep his anger forever. He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our errors. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his lovingkindness toward those who fear him. As far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us." This passage highlights God's readiness to forgive those who sincerely repent and seek His forgiveness.


The Assurance of Forgiveness


Isaiah 1:18 provides further assurance of God's willingness to forgive: "Come now, let us reason together, says Jehovah: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool." This verse emphasizes that no sin is too great for God's forgiveness, including the sin of abortion.



Ethical Considerations in Life-Threatening Situations


The Bible's high regard for the sanctity of life extends to difficult situations where the life of the mother or child is at risk.


Trusting in God's Sovereignty


In situations where the life of the mother or child is at risk, believers are called to trust in God's sovereignty and wisdom. Proverbs 3:5-6 instructs, "Trust in Jehovah with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." This passage encourages believers to seek God's guidance and trust in His provision, even in difficult circumstances.


The Principle of Protecting Life


The biblical principle of protecting life applies to both the mother and the unborn child. Exodus 21:22-23 provides a basis for this principle, indicating that both lives are valuable and worthy of protection. In situations where a decision must be made between saving the mother or the child, the couple must prayerfully consider their options, trusting in God's guidance and provision.



Addressing the Concerns and Challenges of Unplanned Pregnancies


Unplanned pregnancies can present significant challenges, but the Bible offers guidance and hope for those facing such situations.


God's Promise of Provision


Psalm 37:25 provides reassurance of God's provision: "I have been young, and now am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his children begging for bread." This verse highlights God's faithfulness in providing for His people, encouraging those facing unplanned pregnancies to trust in His provision.


The Value of Human Life


The Bible's emphasis on the value of human life extends to all stages, including the unborn. Psalm 127:3 declares, "Behold, children are a heritage from Jehovah, the fruit of the womb a reward." This passage affirms the inherent value and blessing of children, encouraging believers to view unplanned pregnancies as opportunities for God's grace and provision.



The Resurrection Hope for Unborn Children


The Bible does not directly address the resurrection of unborn children, but it offers principles that provide hope for those who have experienced the loss of an unborn child.


The Value of Unborn Life


The Bible's consistent portrayal of the unborn child as a distinct person suggests that God values and cares for unborn life. Psalm 139:13-16 and Jeremiah 1:5 affirm God's intimate knowledge and purpose for the unborn, indicating their inherent value.


Trusting in God's Justice and Mercy


While the Bible does not explicitly address the resurrection of unborn children, it emphasizes God's justice and mercy. Job 14:14-15 expresses hope in the resurrection: "If a man dies, shall he live again? All the days of my service I would wait, till my renewal should come. You would call, and I would answer you; you would long for the work of your hands." This passage reflects a trust in God's ability to restore life and His desire to undo the effects of sin and death.


Conclusion


The Bible provides clear principles regarding the sanctity of human life, beginning at conception. While it does not explicitly mention abortion, it consistently portrays the unborn child as a distinct person deserving of protection and care. God's commandments against murder, the legal protections for the unborn in the Mosaic Law, and the recognition of the unborn child's personhood all underscore the biblical view that abortion is morally wrong. However, the Bible also offers hope and forgiveness to those who have had an abortion, emphasizing God's compassion and willingness to forgive those who sincerely repent. By upholding the sanctity of life, trusting in God's provision, and seeking His guidance, believers can navigate the ethical challenges surrounding abortion and affirm the value of every human life.


About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).


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