Defending the Sanctity of Life: A Call to Action

Summary

In today's gathering, we delved into a topic that is both challenging and deeply significant: the sanctity of life and the implications of Amendment 3, which will be on the ballot this November. We began by grounding our discussion in scripture, particularly Psalm 139:13-16, which beautifully articulates the intrinsic value and worth that God places on every human life, born and unborn. This foundational truth is echoed throughout the Bible, from Genesis to Jeremiah, affirming that each person is fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of God, the Imago Dei.

We explored the historical context of abortion, tracing its philosophical roots back to Greek culture and the influence of figures like Aristotle and Plato, who viewed abortion as a means of population control and eugenics. These ideas have permeated societies over centuries, often clashing with the biblical view of life as sacred and inviolable. We also discussed the modern implications of these ancient philosophies, particularly how they have shaped contemporary debates around abortion.

The conversation then shifted to the current political landscape, particularly the impact of the Dobbs decision, which overturned Roe v. Wade, and the subsequent legislative battles across the United States. We examined the potential consequences of Amendment 3, which seeks to enshrine abortion rights in Missouri's constitution, and the critical role that we, as followers of Christ, must play in advocating for the unborn.

Throughout this discussion, we acknowledged the complexity and sensitivity of this issue, recognizing the diverse perspectives and experiences within our community. Yet, we are called to stand firm in our conviction that life is a precious gift from God, deserving of protection and honor. As we approach the upcoming vote, let us be vocal in the public square, carrying the message of life and hope beyond the walls of our church.

Key Takeaways:

- The Imago Dei and Human Worth: Every human being is created in the image of God, which bestows inherent value and dignity. This truth challenges us to view all life, including the unborn, as sacred and worthy of protection. Our understanding of the Imago Dei should compel us to advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves. [16:34]

- Historical Context of Abortion: The roots of abortion can be traced back to Greek philosophy, where it was used as a tool for population control and eugenics. These ideas have influenced societies for centuries, often conflicting with the biblical view of life as sacred. Understanding this history helps us engage more thoughtfully in contemporary debates. [24:40]

- The Role of Scripture in Modern Issues: While the Bible may not explicitly mention abortion, its principles and teachings provide a framework for addressing this issue. Scripture speaks to the sanctity of life and the moral implications of our choices, guiding us in how we should respond to cultural challenges. [20:35]

- The Importance of Public Advocacy: As Christians, we are called to be a voice for the voiceless, not only within our churches but also in the public square. Our faith should inform our actions, motivating us to engage in societal issues with courage and conviction, particularly when it comes to defending the unborn. [54:28]

- The Call to Repentance and Action: Recognizing our past failures to adequately champion the cause of life, we are called to repentance and renewed commitment. This involves not only personal reflection but also active participation in shaping a culture that values and protects life at all stages. [01:06:30]

Youtube Chapters:

- [0:00] - Welcome
- [14:09] - Introduction to the Topic
- [16:34] - The Imago Dei and Human Worth
- [19:00] - Understanding Different Perspectives
- [20:35] - Biblical Implications on Abortion
- [23:19] - Historical Roots of Abortion
- [24:40] - Greek Philosophical Influence
- [26:56] - Population Control and Eugenics
- [28:42] - The Impact of Eugenics
- [30:00] - Modern Implications and Margaret Sanger
- [31:14] - The Abomination of Eugenics
- [33:02] - Elective and Therapeutic Abortions
- [36:04] - The Spread of Greek Culture
- [39:32] - Syncretism and Its Effects
- [43:21] - Early Church Teachings on Abortion
- [45:24] - Historical Church Stance
- [50:18] - Abortion in the Public Square
- [54:28] - The Call to Action
- [56:05] - Consequences of Amendment 3
- [01:03:55] - Closing Prayer and Call to Stand

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
- Psalm 139:13-16
- Jeremiah 1:5
- Genesis 1:26-27

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Observation Questions:

1. According to Psalm 139:13-16, what does the passage reveal about God's involvement in the creation of life? How does this relate to the concept of the Imago Dei? [16:34]

2. What historical figures and philosophies were mentioned in the sermon as having influenced the modern debate on abortion? How did these ideas contrast with biblical teachings? [24:40]

3. How did the sermon describe the impact of the Dobbs decision on the political landscape regarding abortion in the United States? [51:18]

4. What are some of the potential consequences of Amendment 3 as discussed in the sermon? [56:05]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the understanding of being "fearfully and wonderfully made" in Psalm 139 influence a Christian's view on the sanctity of life? [16:34]

2. In what ways do the historical roots of abortion, as discussed in the sermon, challenge or support current societal views on the issue? [24:40]

3. How does the sermon suggest that Christians should respond to the cultural and political challenges surrounding abortion? [54:28]

4. What role does repentance play in the sermon’s call to action regarding the issue of abortion? [01:06:30]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on the concept of the Imago Dei. How does recognizing the image of God in others, including the unborn, affect your daily interactions and decisions? [16:34]

2. The sermon highlighted the influence of Greek philosophy on modern views of abortion. How can understanding this historical context help you engage in conversations about abortion today? [24:40]

3. Considering the potential consequences of Amendment 3, what steps can you take to be informed and active in the upcoming vote? How can you encourage others to do the same? [56:05]

4. The sermon calls for public advocacy. What are some practical ways you can be a voice for the voiceless in your community? [54:28]

5. How can you incorporate the biblical principles discussed in the sermon into your conversations with friends or family who may have differing views on abortion? [20:35]

6. Reflect on the call to repentance mentioned in the sermon. Are there areas in your life where you need to seek forgiveness or make changes in how you advocate for life? [01:06:30]

7. How can you support those who have been affected by abortion, offering grace and compassion while standing firm in your convictions? [19:00]

Devotional

Day 1: The Imago Dei and Our Call to Protect Life
The concept of the Imago Dei, or the image of God, is foundational to understanding human worth. Every person, regardless of their stage of life, is created in God's image, which bestows inherent dignity and value. This truth challenges us to view all life, including the unborn, as sacred and worthy of protection. As believers, we are called to advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves, recognizing that our understanding of the Imago Dei should compel us to action. This call to protect life is not just a theological concept but a practical mandate to engage in the defense of the most vulnerable among us. [16:34]

Genesis 1:27-28 (ESV): "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. And God blessed them. And God said to them, 'Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.'"

Reflection: Who in your life is vulnerable and in need of advocacy? How can you actively protect and honor their God-given dignity today?

Day 2: Understanding the Historical Context of Abortion
The historical roots of abortion can be traced back to Greek philosophy, where it was used as a tool for population control and eugenics. Figures like Aristotle and Plato influenced societies with their views, often conflicting with the biblical perspective of life as sacred. These ancient philosophies have permeated through time, shaping contemporary debates around abortion. Understanding this history allows us to engage more thoughtfully and critically in these discussions, recognizing the long-standing tension between secular and biblical views on the sanctity of life. [24:40]

Ecclesiastes 1:9-10 (ESV): "What has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done, and there is nothing new under the sun. Is there a thing of which it is said, 'See, this is new'? It has been already in the ages before us."

Reflection: How does understanding the historical context of abortion influence your perspective on current debates? What steps can you take to engage in these discussions with wisdom and grace?

Day 3: Scripture's Guidance on Modern Issues
While the Bible may not explicitly mention abortion, its principles and teachings provide a framework for addressing this issue. Scripture speaks to the sanctity of life and the moral implications of our choices, guiding us in how we should respond to cultural challenges. As followers of Christ, we are called to apply biblical truths to modern issues, allowing God's Word to shape our understanding and actions. This involves discerning how scriptural principles can inform our stance on complex topics like abortion, ensuring that our responses are rooted in faith and love. [20:35]

Proverbs 2:6-9 (ESV): "For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding; he stores up sound wisdom for the upright; he is a shield to those who walk in integrity, guarding the paths of justice and watching over the way of his saints."

Reflection: In what ways can you seek God's wisdom to navigate modern issues? How can you apply biblical principles to your understanding of the sanctity of life?

Day 4: The Importance of Public Advocacy
As Christians, we are called to be a voice for the voiceless, not only within our churches but also in the public square. Our faith should inform our actions, motivating us to engage in societal issues with courage and conviction, particularly when it comes to defending the unborn. Public advocacy involves speaking out against injustices and working towards a society that values and protects life at all stages. This requires a commitment to stand firm in our beliefs, even when faced with opposition, and to carry the message of life and hope beyond the walls of our church. [54:28]

Isaiah 1:17 (ESV): "Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause."

Reflection: What is one specific action you can take this week to advocate for the unborn in your community? How can you encourage others to join you in this effort?

Day 5: The Call to Repentance and Action
Recognizing our past failures to adequately champion the cause of life, we are called to repentance and renewed commitment. This involves not only personal reflection but also active participation in shaping a culture that values and protects life at all stages. Repentance is a turning away from apathy and a turning towards action, seeking God's forgiveness and guidance as we strive to uphold the sanctity of life. As we reflect on our role in this mission, let us be encouraged to take tangible steps towards creating a society that honors God's gift of life. [01:06:30]

2 Chronicles 7:14 (ESV): "If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land."

Reflection: In what areas have you been passive about advocating for life? How can you seek God's forgiveness and take steps towards active involvement in this cause?

Quotes

1) "I want to say this morning that whichever one of those groups you may find yourself in, I'm so thankful for the grace of God. I'm so thankful that God has poured out his love for us on the cross through his son that brings not only redemption but forgiveness that removes guilt and removes shame, but yet at the same time, God's heart is still for the unborn. And so while that grace is ever-present for each one of us in whatever thing that we might have found ourselves in, including abortion, God's heart and God's intention is still forever. God wants us to stand for the unborn." [20:35] (50 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2) "The Bible says in Hebrews chapter, chapter four, that the word of God is alive and it is active. Now, what does that mean? That means that the word of God was living in the moment that God breathed it, theonoustos, that God breathed the scripture, and that it is applicable to every aspect of life through the generations. And because of that, the word of God is applicable. To this situation in this culture. And so one might say the Bible doesn't say anything about abortion in its specificity, in its word abortion, but the Bible does address this issue through its implication and its application." [21:00] (54 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3) "Eugenics is the idea of creating the perfect people. We could say it this way. Eugenics is infamous as the science of improving a human population by controlled breeding to increase the occurrence of desirable, heritable characteristics. In other words, we want to make the perfect person and we want to weed out those characteristics and those flaws that create a human dynamic that is appealing to us." [28:42] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4) "My friends, today, this particular aspect, elective and therapeutic abortions, has taken the field. Oh, we talk about, what about the health of the mother? What about this? What about that? But the reality is, this aspect right here is what is driving this particular issue. And that is that my actions should not have consequences or should I say my actions should not end in the result that those actions might end in. Having good, healthy conversations about sex and God's purposes in it includes having conversations about the fact that there is a result and that is reproduction." [34:07] (54 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5) "Syncretism is the incorporation into religious faith and practice elements from other religions and other cultures and other ideals that results in a loss of integrity and assimilation into the surrounding culture. And that was the goal of the Greeks at that time. The Bible talks about the division that was created by the Hellenistic Jews. The Jews and the Hebrew Jews and those who were following Christ." [39:32] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6) "The Didache was the oral teachings of the 12 apostles that was passed down through the church after the resurrection as the New Testament church was being formed. That it didn't actually take a written form until about A.D. 80, somewhere between A.D. 80 and A.D. 120. So that period of time there, when by the way, fellows like the Apostle John was writing the book of Revelation, writing 1st, 2nd, and 3rd John, the teachings of the Didache was being spread to the New Testament churches as they began to build." [43:21] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7) "Tertullian, which was an early church father lived from 160 AD to 230. He said this. He said, murder being once for all forbidden. We may not destroy even the fetus in the womb. Now hear me as I talk about this because many people say that abortion is a modern issue. We've only really had to deal with abortion since back in the 1970s when Roe versus Wade was put into place. 1973 to be exact. I was one. I was one. 1973. So this is a modern issue. It's not a modern issue. It's been spoken to for 2,000 years and the New Testament church laid its foundation on abortion being wrong." [45:24] (63 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8) "Missouri has the opportunity to lead in a way, just like it led when it was the first, after the Dobbs decision, to ban abortion. They have the opportunity right now to be the first state to overwhelmingly say, we will not enshrine abortion in our constitution. by voting no on Amendment 3. Quickly, as I bring this to a close, the Baptist Faith and Message, we are a Southern Baptist church by association. The Baptist Faith and Message 2000 in Article 15 says that we should speak on behalf of the unborn and contend for the sanctity of human life from conception to natural death." [54:28] (58 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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Transcript

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