Abortion is a very sensitive topic in the world today and the bible has much to say about this controversial issue. According to the New King James Version (NKJV) of the Bible, abortion isn’t for us to decide. It is God’s decision and not ours.
The bible isn’t silent on abortion. Scripture expresses very clear opinions – both in Old and New Testaments – on the topic of taking a human life in the form of abortion. In Exodus 20:13, it says: “Thou shall not kill.” This commandment applies to everyone, not just believers, and applies to pre-born babies just as much as it does to those already born.
Many believe that to say abortion is wrong in the bible is an oversimplification of a much more complex question. No matter what your interpretation and beliefs are, the important take away is that unborn children are considered human beings from creation, protected under God’s law.
The NKJV does not explicitly use the word “abortion” but it clearly states that unborn children are considered human beings. In Psalm 51:5
it states “Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, And in sin my mother conceived me”, conveying that a baby is a life from the moment of conception. This implies that abortion, to the biblical eye, is extremely wrong.
The bible also speaks to a mother’s heart. When faced with an unplanned pregnancy and considering an abortion, women may feel guilt or shame. Thankfully women are assured of God’s forgiveness when faced with such decisions. Isaiah 1:18 states, “Come now, and let us reason together,” saith the LORD, “Though your sins are as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” This gives comfort to anyone who needs to hear it, and grants hope for the futures of both mother and child.
In that sense, the bible doesn’t necessarily “speak out on” abortion, but it does provide comfort for those who may be facing a difficult decision. Ultimately, the bible affirms that every life has intrinsic value and is deserving of love and protection, regardless of circumstances.
What Does the Bible Say about Adoption?
When considering options for an unplanned or difficult pregnancy, the bible supports adoption as an alternative to abortion. The bible embraces love and compassion toward the unwanted child, drawing from the example of God’s adoption of us as His beloved children. “For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father.’” (Romans 8:15)
In addition to adoption, there is a biblical call to individuals, families, and churches to support expectant mothers in need. This call extends to the church community as a whole to not only physically and financially care for the mother in need, but also financially provide for the child if needed. This could come in the form of food baskets, diapers, housing assistance, and more, as stated in Proverbs 31:8-9. In this, the church can use each individual’s gifts and specialties to glorify God as they provide support to both child and mother.
In the bible, great is the responsibility of the believer to care for the orphan and widow, and to show forth love and mercy. This call to provide strong spiritual leadership and assistance outside of an abortion decision is a great task, but one that can be easily reached if taken on with joy. All of us, especially the church body as a whole, have a part to play in this matter.
What Does the Bible Say about Forgiveness?
When women, men and couples choose the path of abortion, God’s grace and forgiveness is available to them. Our loving Father provides abundant grace and forgiveness to those who’ve participated in abortions, as he does with any sin. 1 John 1:9 states, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
If you or someone you know is hurting from a past abortion, the bible offers hope through the redemptive power of Jesus Christ. Isaiah 53:5 reads, “But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed”. Jesus offers us complete forgiveness, and healing from our hurt and shame. If you’ve experienced abortion – personally or through someone you love – we implore you to seek His healing power.
Grief in any form is a difficult process. But we find comfort and hope in the words of Isaiah 61:1-3:
“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; to appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified.”
What Does the Bible Say about Healing?
The bible is full of stories of God’s healing and restoration, including in the wake of difficult decisions—throughout scripture, we’re reminded that no situation is too hard for Him. During the process of healing, it’s important to lean on the Lord for help and guidance in all steps of the journey. And if the road to recovery is long, don’t forget that God promises to never leave us nor forsake us.
Psalm 71:20 reminds us that our hope resides in God: “Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again”. And Hebrews 13:5-6 encourages us: “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you. So we say with confidence, The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.”
The Lord has a unique plan for each and every one of us and he calls us to trust him with that power. In Exodus 14:14 it says: “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” God is always near to us – no matter what – and always there to give His healing and love freely, deeply, and perfectly.
We Can Help
At [our organization], we exist to stand alongside those in need of counsel and care at whatever stage of healing they’re in. We desire to come alongside families in their process to find hope and healing. Whatever your situation may be, you don’t have to go through it alone.
We want to connect those who have experienced abortion in some way to biblical truths and resources that can enable them to find healing and hope. Our team of dedicated counselors are here to help you discover direction and healing in the wake of an unplanned pregnancy. We believe in care, compassion, and nonjudgmental existence.
If you or someone you know is seeking help and healing after an abortion decision, come to us for knowledgeable guidance and resources. You don’t have to face this struggle alone, support is available.
A husband of one wife, father of two beautiful girls, laborer of Lord, Jesus Christ, and a servant to God’s His saints. I hope to encourage you by God’s grace. Thank you for stopping by.
