August 15th, 2024
by Chris Reighley
by Chris Reighley
Life Matters: Abortion and Euthanasia in the 2024 Election
This is Part 2 of the series Navigating Today’s Challenges Through a Biblical Lens: A Comparison of Presidential Platforms
The sanctity of life is a fundamental biblical principle, yet it remains a hotly debated topic in today’s political arena. As we approach the 2024 presidential election, understanding where candidates stand on issues like abortion and euthanasia is crucial for making informed decisions. This blog post aims to explore these life-and-death issues through a biblical lens, compare the positions of the presidential candidates, and evaluate how these stances align with a biblical worldview.
What the Bible Says About the Sanctity of Life
Scriptural Basis
The Bible clearly values human life, from conception to natural death. Psalm 139:13-16 speaks of God’s intimate involvement in our creation:
Jeremiah 1:5 further highlights our purpose from the womb:
“For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother’s womb. I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, And my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret, And skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth; Your eyes have seen my unformed substance; And in Your book were all written The days that were ordained for me, When as yet there was not one of them” Psalm 139:13-16
Jeremiah 1:5 further highlights our purpose from the womb:
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, And before you were born I consecrated you; I have appointed you a prophet to the nations” Jeremiah 1:5
Theological Insights
John MacArthur emphasizes the divine image in every human life, arguing that any action undermining this is contrary to God’s will. He states, “Human life is sacred because it is made in the image of God. To assault human life in any form is to assault God Himself” (MacArthur, 2006).
C.S. Lewis, in his reflections on morality and human value, underscores the inherent worth of every person, made possible by God’s creative work. He writes, “There are no ordinary people. You have never talked to a mere mortal. Nations, cultures, arts, civilizations—these are mortal, and their life is to ours as the life of a gnat. But it is immortals whom we joke with, work with, marry, snub, and exploit” (Lewis, 1947).
C.S. Lewis, in his reflections on morality and human value, underscores the inherent worth of every person, made possible by God’s creative work. He writes, “There are no ordinary people. You have never talked to a mere mortal. Nations, cultures, arts, civilizations—these are mortal, and their life is to ours as the life of a gnat. But it is immortals whom we joke with, work with, marry, snub, and exploit” (Lewis, 1947).
Where the Candidates Stand on Abortion and Euthanasia
Donald J. Trump (Republican Party)
The Republican platform under Donald Trump’s leadership maintains a strong pro-life stance, emphasizing the protection of the unborn. The platform calls for the end of late-term abortions and the protection of infants born alive during failed abortion procedures. It supports policies that advance prenatal care, access to birth control, and in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments while opposing taxpayer-funded abortions and Planned Parenthood (Republican National Committee, 2024).
Direct Quotes from the Platform:
- “We will oppose Late Term Abortion, while supporting mothers and policies that advance Prenatal Care, access to Birth Control, and IVF (fertility treatments)” (Republican National Committee, 2024, p. 20).
- “We proudly stand for families and Life. We believe that the 14th Amendment to the Constitution of the United States guarantees that no person can be denied Life or Liberty without Due Process, and that the States are, therefore, free to pass Laws protecting those Rights” (Republican National Committee, 2024, p. 21).
Kamala Harris (Democratic Party)
Kamala Harris and the Democratic platform advocate for a woman’s right to choose, supporting unrestricted access to abortion services. The platform seeks to codify Roe v. Wade, ensuring that abortion remains legal nationwide and opposes any federal or state restrictions on abortion. The platform also supports the right to physician-assisted euthanasia under specific circumstances, advocating for policies that respect personal autonomy at the end of life (Democratic National Committee, 2020).
Direct Quotes from the Platform:
- “Democrats believe every woman should be able to access high-quality reproductive health care services, including safe and legal abortion. We oppose and will fight to overturn federal and state laws that create barriers to reproductive health and rights” (Democratic National Committee, 2020, p. 32).
- “We will support the right to assisted euthanasia under strict guidelines, ensuring compassionate end-of-life care while respecting the autonomy and dignity of individuals” (Democratic National Committee, 2020, p. 33).
Detailed Analysis
Abortion:
Donald J. Trump: The Republican stance on abortion is firmly pro-life, opposing abortion in almost all circumstances except where the life of the mother is at risk. This position aligns closely with the biblical view that life begins at conception and should be protected.
Kamala Harris: The Democratic stance advocates for the right to choose, supporting unrestricted access to abortion services. This position conflicts with the biblical view on the sanctity of life, which sees every unborn child as a creation of God.
Kamala Harris: The Democratic stance advocates for the right to choose, supporting unrestricted access to abortion services. This position conflicts with the biblical view on the sanctity of life, which sees every unborn child as a creation of God.
Euthanasia:
Donald J. Trump: The Republican platform opposes euthanasia, emphasizing the protection of life until natural death. This aligns with the biblical perspective that life is sacred and only God has the authority to end it.
Kamala Harris: The Democratic platform supports the right to physician-assisted euthanasia under specific circumstances. This stance diverges from the biblical view, which upholds the sanctity of life and rejects the taking of life, even to alleviate suffering.
Kamala Harris: The Democratic platform supports the right to physician-assisted euthanasia under specific circumstances. This stance diverges from the biblical view, which upholds the sanctity of life and rejects the taking of life, even to alleviate suffering.
Evaluation
Overall, Donald J. Trump’s views are more closely aligned with the biblical perspective on the sanctity of life, both regarding abortion and euthanasia. Kamala Harris’s positions, while emphasizing personal autonomy and rights, diverge significantly from the biblical teachings on the value and protection of life.
Applying Biblical Principles in Today’s Context
Reflection Questions:
- How do your personal beliefs align with the biblical view on the sanctity of life?
- What steps can you take to support life-affirming policies in your community and at the national level?
- How can you engage in compassionate conversations with those who hold differing views on these sensitive issues?
Action Steps:
- Support Life-Affirming Organizations: Consider supporting organizations that advocate for the protection of life, such as local pregnancy centers, pro-life advocacy groups, and ministries focused on end-of-life care.
- Engage in Community Education: Educate others about the biblical perspective on the sanctity of life, using scripture and theological insights to foster understanding and respect for life at all stages.
- Volunteer and Advocate: Volunteer at local organizations that support mothers and families, and advocate for policies that protect the unborn and provide compassionate care for those facing end-of-life decisions.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Summary
In conclusion, while neither candidate perfectly aligns with the biblical view on life, it’s important to consider which platform more closely reflects God’s principles. Donald J. Trump’s stance on abortion and euthanasia aligns more closely with the biblical perspective, advocating for the protection of life from conception to natural death. Kamala Harris’s positions, while emphasizing individual rights and autonomy, diverge from the biblical teachings on the sanctity of life.
Encouragement
Reflect on these insights and pray for wisdom as you prepare to vote. Consider how your decisions can reflect your commitment to upholding the biblical view of life’s sanctity.
Call to Action
Share your thoughts in the comments below and discuss how we can advocate for a culture of life in our communities. Let’s commit to making informed decisions that honor God’s design for life.
Commentary
It is crucial to vote with a conscience informed by Scripture, seeking leaders who will uphold the sanctity of life. As believers, we are called to be salt and light in the world, standing firm on the truths of God’s Word and advocating for the protection of all human life.
References
- Democratic National Committee. (2020). 2020 Democratic Party Platform. Retrieved from https://democrats.org
- Lewis, C. S. (1947). The Weight of Glory. HarperOne.
- MacArthur, J. (2006). The MacArthur Study Bible. Thomas Nelson.
- Republican National Committee. (2024). Republican Platform 2024. Retrieved from https://rncplatform.donaldjtrump.com
- Legacy Standard Bible. (2021). Legacy Standard Bible. 316 Publishing.
By applying a Biblical Worldview to contemporary issues, we aim to discern how best to live out our faith in today’s complex and often contentious cultural landscape. This perspective shapes our understanding of justice, morality, and the purpose of human existence. It is my prayer that this series will help you see the importance of evaluating social and political issues through the lens of Scripture, ultimately leading to informed and faithful political engagement.
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