Christian Views on Abortion: An Overview

This page delves into the complex topic of abortion from a Christian perspective, offering a comprehensive examination of various viewpoints within the faith. The document begins by defining abortion and its significance in Christian theology.

Definition: Abortion is the removal of a foetus from the womb to end a pregnancy before the child is born. This can occur naturally through miscarriage, but typically refers to the deliberate termination of pregnancy through medical procedures.

The text emphasizes the Christian belief in the sanctity of life and the concept that humans are created in God's image, which forms the foundation for many Christian views on abortion.

Highlight: Christians believe in the sanctity of life and that humans are made in the image of God.

The document then explores the diverse perspectives on abortion within different Christian denominations:

1. The Catholic Church and many evangelical Christians hold that life begins at conception, making abortion morally wrong except in cases where the mother's life is at risk.

2. Some Christian denominations oppose abortion but consider it acceptable under certain circumstances, such as in cases of rape or severe fetal disability.

3. The Church of England and Methodist churches take a more nuanced approach, viewing abortion as sometimes being "the lesser of two evils" and potentially the kindest option in cases where the quality of life for the baby would be extremely poor.

Quote: "It does not matter whether you take away a life that is born, or destroy one that is coming to the birth. In both instances, destruction is murder." - Tertullian, a Christian writer, 197 AD

This historical quote from Tertullian illustrates the long-standing Christian tradition of equating abortion with murder, highlighting the deep-rooted nature of this belief within the faith.

Vocabulary: Sanctity of life - The belief that human life is sacred and should be protected and respected at all stages.

The page provides a balanced overview of Christian views on abortion, acknowledging the diversity of opinions within the faith while emphasizing the underlying principle of the sanctity of human life that informs these perspectives.