In a rapidly changing world, moral dilemmas like abortion often challenge our Christian values. Today, many things once considered wrong are now deemed right, and society has adapted to these changing standards. Regrettably, wrongs, including abortion, are accepted and justified. Society’s shifting norms have made abortion an accepted practice in many places, including South Africa, where it’s legal within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. But as Christians, we are called to examine this issue from a Biblical perspective.
are we fully aware of the physical, spiritual, and emotional consequences of this choice?
In South Africa, abortion is increasingly normalized. Streets are lined with posters and advertisements that make it seem acceptable. Healthcare providers sometimes offer abortion services even beyond the 12-week mark. How did we reach this point, and are we fully aware of the physical, spiritual, and emotional consequences of this choice?
The Bible doesn’t explicitly mention “abortion,” but it provides a moral framework that emphasizes the sanctity of life. The 6th commandment, “You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13 NIV), clearly conveys that taking a life is wrong. The Bible affirms that humanity is created in God’s image and acknowledges life in the womb (Psalm 139:13-16, Jeremiah 1:5), making it clear that intentionally ending an unborn life violates its sanctity.
The Salvation Army holds that human life begins at fertilization.
As members of The Salvation Army, we firmly believe in the sanctity of all human life, viewing each person as a precious creation of God. Our commitment to Biblical values remains unwavering. The Salvation Army holds that human life begins at fertilization. We believe in society’s duty to care for all, especially the vulnerable, including the unborn.
The Salvation Army believes in supporting parents and their unborn children emotionally, physically, socially, and spiritually.
Unplanned or unwanted pregnancies often result from complex social issues and injustice. While some argue for a mother’s right to choose, this notion contradicts Christian beliefs in defending the weak and marginalized. Human rights must be accompanied by human responsibility. In the face of unwanted pregnancies, The Salvation Army believes in supporting parents and their unborn children emotionally, physically, socially, and spiritually. Abortion should be a last resort, only when the mother’s life is in danger, or in cases of severe fetal abnormalities.
We acknowledge that in some countries, legal provisions for abortion exist, but alternatives should always be fully explored when counselling the pregnant woman. Salvationists should seek to support women who have had abortions with care, respect, love, and compassion. We also recognize the emotional and physical implications of abortion, which may affect relationships and self-worth.
In our ever-changing world, Christians must stand firm in their faith and uphold the sanctity of life. Salvationists are guided by Biblical principles on abortion, promoting love, compassion, and respect for all individuals, including the unborn.
The Salvation Army’s positional statement on abortion can be found here: