The new abortion law in Texas: How might Jesus respond?
A new “heartbeat” bill in Texas commenced on September 1, 2021, when the U.S. Supreme Court opted to not intervene, allowing the law to go into effect.
What does the new Texas abortion law mean?
The new abortion law in Texas bans abortions after a heartbeat can be detected. A baby’s heartbeat can typically be detected in the sixth week of pregnancy. The Texas law doesn’t make exceptions for cases of rape or incest and allows private citizens to sue abortion providers or anyone who helps a woman obtain an abortion. Currently, this law is only in the state of Texas, but the impact of the law is still unclear.
What would Jesus say?
Maybe you know where you stand on the topic of abortion, but maybe you’re not sure. Or, maybe you’re just trying to understand what the new abortion law in Texas really means. Are you dancing in the street, claiming victory? Let’s consider how Jesus might respond.
Can you cast the first stone?
What? We don’t stone people anymore. That’s mostly true, but we’re gleaning guidance from the story in John chapter 8. Here’s the short version: The Pharisees bought in a woman for adultery with the intent to stone her. Jesus stepped in and told the angry crowd, “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her” (John 8:7 ESV). The Bible is clear: It’s not up to you to judge someone else’s sin or choices. Before you consider judging someone for their choices, ask yourself: Are you without sin? Are you willing to throw that first stone? The answer to those questions should be a resounding no. None of us can claim to lead a sinless life, and none of us should cast that stone.
Show love
Jesus has strong opinions (He flipped tables, remember?). He has also always shown love. In Ephesians 4:15 (NLT), the Bible encourages us to “speak the truth in love” so that we will grow as the body of Christ. Put yourself in the position of the young girl or woman who is faced with the idea of having to abort her baby. Do you think she wants to be in this position? The odds are good that she didn’t intend for this to happen. So before you comment or act, remind yourself that she is hurting.
Understand life is precious
As you’re navigating your belief system in terms of where you stand on the new abortion law in Texas, let’s look at what the Jesus has to say about life and children:
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.” Jeremiah 1:5 (ESV)
“Children are a gift from the Lord. They are a reward from Him.” Psalm 127:3 (NIRV)
“When men strive together and hit a pregnant woman, so that her children come out, but there is no harm, the one who hit her shall surely be fined, as the woman’s husband shall impose on him, and he shall pay as the judges determine. But if there is harm, then you shall pay life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, stripe for stripe.” Exodus 21:22-25 (ESV)
If you’re thinking that none of those verses speak specifically about abortion, well, you’re correct. There are verses in the Bible that talk about how each life is valued, and there are verses that discuss what should happen if someone tries to kill a woman’s baby. Life is precious, but it’s essential that as we fight for life, we show kindness and love.
Centerpoint Church is ready to walk with you on your faith journey
At Centerpoint, our community believes in purpose and passion, and we would love to walk with you on your journey in finding yours. Do you want to grow in your faith, or are you simply curious about who this Jesus guy is? You’re not alone. We encourage you to listen to our series online and welcome you to come to one of our Sunday morning services in Valrico, Florida.