Christians deal with moral issues so often that there is the danger of wearying of the fight. The daily bombardment of unrighteousness requires vigilance on our part, but I fear that some Christians simply tire of hearing about topics like abortion, homosexuality, racism, pornography, and other troubling societal problems. We must remember, however, that our enemy is relentless. He never ceases in furthering his agenda, and has been described by Peter as walking “about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8). Therefore, God’s people must be constantly on guard, constantly defending what is right (cf. Jude 3), and constantly applying Paul’s exhortation, “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart” (Galatians 6:9).
This week I came across an appeal from a pro-abortion advocate, asking for a change in the dialogue about abortion. (Carter Eskew, Its time for a new dialogue on abortion, Washington Post, 8/19/14). He maintains that the language used regarding the abortion controversy must be changed, because:
“The problem is ‘choice’ will never trump ‘life.’ Choice is valuable, but life is precious. As long as there is no competing affirmative value for abortion, then life will always win.”
He contends that pro-abortion advocates should stop their defensive strategy, that abortion should be “safe, legal and rare” — and instead opt for words that “affirm the true value of abortion.” What are those words? Basically, a description of the personal benefits that come to a woman who chooses to abort her child! For example, in Eskew’s words:
“such as waiting until one is willing and able to care for a child, and societal benefits, such as women who are able to finish high school and college and join the workforce.”
He concludes by writing,
“Control over one’s reproduction is a deeply affirmative value. It’s time to assert it.”
So there you have it. Pro-abortionists are now wanting to progress beyond, “we have a right” to “abortion is a good thing!” We saw the same thing with sexual relationships outside of marriage — from “we have a right” to “Its better to be sure you’re compatible before marrying.” Also with regard to homosexuality —from “we have a right” to “homosexuality is as equally good and natural as heterosexuality.”
Interestingly, the “personal benefits” that Eskew mentions regarding abortion are benefits that Christians have espoused regarding sexual abstinence. We tell our young people not to have sex until marriage so that they will be willing and able to care for a child, will be able to finish high school and college, and (if they want) will be able to join the work force!
The difference is that many in society want all of the privilege, with none of the responsibility. And, they are willing to trump the call to value and protect the life of the unborn, if it will personally “benefit” (convenience) them. That is what the Devil has been able to do in our society!
Brethren, if we are not consistent, insistent, vocal and untiring in our opposition to immorality in our day, it will continue to spread unchecked. Even most politically conservative people lack the conviction of faith that is required to stand against the raging tide of ungodliness that afflicts our land. Consider the words of the great apostle Paul, “Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong” (1 Corinthians 16:13). Amen!
