The law of non-contradiction states that contradictory statements cannot both be true. Concepts diametrically opposed may both be wrong … but both cannot be right.
Bearing that in mind, read the following quotes made by pro-choice and pro-life groups relative to Conservative MP Stephen Woodworth’s Motion 312.
From the webpage of Abortion Rights Coalition of Canada, we read, “Crush Motion 312! A dangerous anti-abortion motion was debated in Parliament in April and is coming up for a second round of debate and a vote in September.”
They think the motion is an attempt to re-criminalize abortion.
Life Canada, a pro-life group, encourages support of Motion 312. Their webpage says, “Sign Up, Connect and share with the people in your life. SIGN THE PRO-LIFE PETITION IN SUPPORT OF MOTION 312.”
They believe that the motion might bring a new awareness to the abortion issue and encourage Parliament to reconsider 400-year-old legislation that defines the unborn.
Woodworth is challenging Section 223 of the Criminal code entitled, “When a child becomes a human being.”
It states that “(1.) A child becomes a human being within the meaning of this Act when it has completely proceeded, in a living state from the body of its mother whether or not (a) it has breathed (b) it has an independent circulation (c) the navel string is severed.”
That means that the baby is not human in the womb and only becomes a person or human when it has totally emerged from its mother’s body. (Incidentally, Canadian women were not considered persons until 1929).
I’m not without empathy for those caught in the predicament of an unplanned or unwanted pregnancy. And I am particularly burdened for those who have conceived through rape or who, through medical complications or disease, might face their own demise through a full-term pregnancy. I’ve counselled, consoled, prayed and wept with them. However, I cannot sacrifice principles upon the altar of particulars.
What do I say? I’m pro-life and have been for a long time. I am simultaneously amazed by early stage preemies being saved and perplexed by late stage abortions being performed.
Experientially, I’ve seen the signs and felt the movement of the life of our three children in my wife’s body. More recently, I’ve viewed ultrasounds of my grandchildren.
One was so clear that there are recognizable features today that were evident in the image; she did everything but smile and wave!
What does the Bible say? The scripture unequivocally teaches that life begins at conception. Of the many passages affirming that view, I will share just one. Psalm 139:13 says, “You formed my inward parts; you knit me together in my mother’s womb ... I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”
What do you say?
Pastor Ross Helgeton is senior pastor at Erskine Evangelical Free Church.