Evangelicals and Blame-shifting on the Culpability of Committing Abortion
In the midst of modern disputes surrounding the ethics of mass in-utero infanticide, a troubling misconception has taken root, even among some who claim to be Christians, particularly within the evangelical community. This delusion suggests that the moral culpability for abortion can be shifted away from mothers, attributing it instead to broader societal failures—such as a lack of welfare services for mothers, pressure from doctors, or coercion from fathers.
This perspective, however, is out of line with the biblical understanding of personal responsibility and the sanctity of life.
Of course, we know that Scripture is unequivocal in affirming the sanctity and value of every human life, created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). From the moment of conception, life is a sacred gift entrusted to us by God, imbued with purpose and value. And the Bible also teaches us that each individual person bears responsibility for their actions before God—including the decision to commit an abortion.
In the eyes of God, shifting blame to external pressures does not absolve one of personal moral accountability. The commandment "You shall not murder" (Exodus 20:13) is clear and applies universally. It teaches us the inherent value of God-given life and the grave sin of taking it unjustly.
It is a heavy misunderstanding to suggest that economic factors or the actions of others—be it a lack of support from welfare systems, the influence of medical professionals, or pressure from sexual partners—can remove moral culpability from mothers who choose abortion. Yet, this is now the default position of the broader Evangelical community, including Southern Baptists. The biblical call to protect the innocent and uphold the value of life does not careen based on these pressures. Each person, including the mother, must weigh their choices against the truth of Scripture.
The New Testament reinforces the principle of personal accountability to God. In Galatians 6:5, we are reminded, "For each will have to bear his own load." This principle extends to our moral and ethical decisions, including those concerning life and death. While the Christian community is called to support, love, and provide for those in need, including expecting mothers facing challenging circumstances, this support does not negate the individual's responsibility before God.
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