
Abortion
We are committed to the dignity and worth of all humans, including the unborn, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, color, socio-economic status, disability, or any other distinctions (Acts 10:34-35) and will respect them as persons made in the image of God (Genesis 1:26-27) and redeemed by Christ’s death and resurrection. —“The Dignity and Worth of Persons” — Free Methodist Book of Discipline, 2019
The Old Testament law commands such respect (Deuteronomy 5:11-21). Jesus summarized this law as love for God and neighbor (Matthew 22:36-40). He ministered to all without distinction and His death on the cross was for all (John 3:16; Romans 5:8).
We are therefore pledged to active concern whenever human beings are demeaned, abused, depersonalized, enslaved or subjected to demonic forces in the world, whether by individuals or institutions (Galatians 3:28; Mark 2:27; 1 Timothy 1:8-10).
We are committed to give meaning and significance to every person by God’s help. Remembering our tendency to be prejudicial, as Christians we must grow in awareness of the rights and needs of others.
See also the subsequent points of this paragraph from the Book of Discipline:
· With Regard to Poverty
· With Regard to Racism
· With Regard to Immigrants, Refugees and Those in Bondage
Main Point: The Creator of human life calls us to value and care for people of all ages and circumstances with compassion and grace.
The Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37)
Luke 10:25-37
Who is my neighbor?
· Unborn child
· Abortion-vulnerable women (and men)
· Post-abortive women (and men)
· All women (and men)
· All babies and children
· People on all sides of the political spectrum on this issue
How did the Good Samaritan show mercy?
· With pity
· Without prejudice
· Personally
· Sacrificially
How can we “go and do likewise”?
· Spending time with God
· Becoming like Jesus
· Learning, listening, and obeying the Holy Spirit
On the one hand we are called to play the good Samaritan on life’s roadside; but that will be only an initial act. One day we must come to see that the whole Jericho road must be transformed so that men and women will not be constantly beaten and robbed as they make their journey on life’s highway. True compassion is more than flinging a coin to a beggar; it is not haphazard and superficial. It comes to see that an edifice which produces beggars needs restructuring. —— Martin Luther King, Jr.
Takeaway: To best demonstrate a love for life, don’t (just) hold up a sign – reach out a hand. Love the living.