Sacred State
Whoever sheds human blood, by humans his blood will be shed, for God made humans in his image.
Genesis 9:6 (CSB)
The battle over the sanctity of life has centered on the issue of abortion for years. Using abortion as the primary focus of the sanctity of life does not give us a complete view of the truth. When discussing the sanctity of life, believers need to address the sanctity of life in its entirety. The topic of abortion is part of this truth, but so are issues like euthanasia and assisted suicide. A proper understanding and arguments in these areas stem from knowing who man is according to the Lord.
THE BASIS OF THE SANCTITY OF LIFE
The basis of any understanding of the sanctity of life and an argument for the sanctity of life rests in the truth that all humanity is created in the image of God. This understanding comes from recognizing that people are the crown of creation, wonderfully and fearfully made. God has strategically designed individuals for a purpose according to His plan. When we begin to see all people from this perspective, we understand the foundation of the sanctity of life.
THE LIVING OUT THE SANCTITY OF LIFE
When the truth of the sanctity of life is understood, it must then be put into practice in one’s life. When believers live out this truth, they approach people with dignity and recognize their great value. They respond to others through the eyes of Christ and strive to represent Him in all they do. Living out the sanctity of life occurs when we integrate the various components of humanity as part of God’s design and purpose.
THE TOTALITY OF THE SANCTITY OF LIFE
The issue of the sanctity of life is not solely an abortion issue. Believers must see value in all people at every stage of life, regardless of their condition or state. The reality is that all believers should view individuals as created in the image of God. Believers must advocate for life at the end of life as fervently as they do at the beginning. They should strive to engage others at every moment in life to help them recognize their worth because of the Lord.
QUESTIONS
How can we be better individually at responding to the issue of sanctity of life at both the beginning, middle, and end of life?
How is the sanctity of life argument dependent upon who God is and how He has created humanity?
