Abortion is one of the most debated moral issues in society today. For Christians, it raises a deeper question: What does the Bible say about abortion? While the word “abortion” is not mentioned directly in Scripture, the Bible offers strong principles that guide believers in forming a biblical worldview on the sanctity of life.
In this article, we will explore what the Bible says about life in the womb, how it treats unborn children, the ethical implications, and how God offers grace and forgiveness to all who seek Him—even in the aftermath of abortion.
Does the Bible Directly Mention Abortion?
The Bible does not explicitly use the word “abortion,” but it addresses matters of life, personhood, and morality in ways that can help us understand God’s heart on the issue. Instead of looking for a single verse, we must study the full counsel of Scripture to discern what it teaches about unborn life and the act of ending it.
Biblical View of Life in the Womb
1. Life Begins Before Birth
The Bible makes it clear that God recognizes and values life before birth:
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Jeremiah 1:5 (NIV) – “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”
→ This verse highlights God’s intimate involvement with human life from the earliest stages. -
Psalm 139:13–16 (NIV) – “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb… Your eyes saw my unformed body.”
→ David acknowledges that God sees and values human life even when it is still being formed.
2. The Sanctity of Life
Life is sacred because humans are made in God’s image:
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Genesis 1:27 – “So God created mankind in his own image…”
→ This gives every human, born or unborn, inherent dignity and worth. -
Exodus 20:13 – “You shall not murder.”
→ While some debate whether this applies directly to abortion, the principle affirms that the intentional taking of innocent life is a sin.
Old Testament Laws Related to Unborn Life
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Exodus 21:22–25 speaks about a situation in which a pregnant woman is injured and gives birth prematurely. Some translations imply a miscarriage, while others indicate premature birth followed by injury or death. Regardless of interpretation, the passage shows that causing harm to a pregnant woman and her unborn child was taken seriously and carried legal consequences.
→ Implication: The unborn were seen as valuable lives worthy of protection under the law.
Jesus’ Teachings and the Value of Children
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Matthew 19:14 (NIV) – “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
→ Jesus consistently uplifted the weak, vulnerable, and innocent—values that easily extend to unborn children. -
Mark 9:37 (NIV) – “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me…”
→ Jesus identifies closely with children, showing their immense value in the kingdom of God.
Forgiveness and Grace for Past Abortions
Abortion can leave deep emotional and spiritual scars. Thankfully, the Bible offers hope and forgiveness through Christ:
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1 John 1:9 (NIV) – “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
→ There is no sin beyond God’s mercy. Anyone who repents and turns to Jesus is completely forgiven. -
Romans 8:1 – “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
→ Shame and guilt do not define you. Redemption is possible for all who seek it.
Ethical and Theological Considerations
When Does Life Begin According to Scripture?
While the Bible does not give a biological definition, verses like Psalm 139 and Jeremiah 1 point toward life beginning at conception or even before, from God’s perspective. The consistent theme is that unborn life is known and cherished by God.
Pro-Life vs. Pro-Choice in the Christian Context
Many Christian denominations affirm a pro-life stance, believing that life is sacred from conception to natural death. Some Christians argue for compassion in complex cases, but most agree that life should not be taken lightly or without spiritual consideration.
Compassion, Truth, and the Role of the Church
Christians are called to be truthful and compassionate. It is not enough to oppose abortion morally—we must also offer real support:
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Pregnancy resource centers
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Counseling services
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Financial assistance
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Adoption and foster care support
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Non-judgmental pastoral care
Churches must be safe places where grace and truth walk hand in hand.
FAQs About What the Bible Says About Abortion
1. Does the Bible condemn abortion?
Not directly, but it strongly supports the sanctity of life and condemns the taking of innocent life.
2. What if the mother’s life is at risk?
This is a complex moral situation. Many Christian ethicists encourage preserving life where possible and seeking God’s guidance through prayer and wise counsel.
3. Is there forgiveness after abortion?
Yes. God’s grace covers all sin, including abortion. Many women and men have found healing and restoration through Jesus Christ.
4. What should Christians do about abortion laws?
Believers are called to speak up for the voiceless (Proverbs 31:8) and support laws that protect life, while also promoting compassion and support for mothers in crisis.
5. Can a Christian be pro-choice?
Some believers identify as pro-choice due to personal convictions, but Scripture strongly emphasizes the value of unborn life, which generally aligns with the pro-life perspective.
Conclusion
While the Bible may not mention the word “abortion” directly, its teachings on the value of life, the sanctity of the womb, and the need for compassion provide a clear foundation. Abortion is a deeply personal and spiritual issue, but God’s Word offers wisdom, grace, and truth.
Whether you are seeking clarity, healing, or guidance, remember this: God values life—and that includes yours.
