Tag Archives: Pro-life

christian life, culture

Sanctity of Human Life and the Dangerous Divide of Politics and Faith

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Let me be up front, I am not a fan of American politics. I think they are divisive and reductionistic, focused less on doing what is right (or searching for what is right) and more on getting re-elected. I hate the false dichotomy that Americans have been fed for so long that one party has the moral high ground compared to the other. Both parties have proven to be tribalistic and self-focused with more concern for personal gain than the common good.

That being said, one issue on which I just can’t move is the issue of abortion. I believe that the protection of all human life is not a political issue but a divine mandate by God (e.g., Gen. 9:5-6; Deut. 27:25; Ps. 127:3; Psalm 139:13-15; Deut. 30:19). I believe the government should protect the freedom of all people, but I don’t buy into the argument that this is a “women’s choice” issue. One of the strongest denouncements of abortion came from the mouth of John Piper a number of years ago. In response to President Obama’s statements on the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, Piper spoke with prophetic eloquence and power. What I love about his response is that is drenched in love and respect for the then newly elected president (a sentiment not all can echo). Listen carefully to a passionate plea to protect the most innocent among us. The video is only a few minutes long but every word is drenched in prayer, power, and Biblical conviction.

Our church supports a local organization that helps women in crisis pregnancy situations. I would encourage you to seek out such organizations that are on the front lines of helping pregnant women and their babies. Pray for them and give to them because it is more than a cause.

culture

Tim Tebow, CBS, Pro-life Politics, and Freedom of Speech

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This whole Tim Tebow pro-life commercial fiasco is particularly odd to me.  I understand why Tim Tebow might rub some people the wrong way.  He makes all of us look bad (e.g., handsome, athletic, nice, etc.).  The wisdom of Tebow’s evangelistic tactics can be debated:  Are eye black Bible verses really helpful?  Does Tebow come across as preachy and unapproachable?  That being said, I have never doubted that Tebow believes what he says.  Further, he has demonstrated genuine Christian character on and off the field.

All of this is neither here nor there.  CBS (who is televising the Superbowl) has every right to approve any commercial they think will get them better ratings.  If people do not want to support CBS because of their decision to air a Focus on the Family funded commercial starring Tebow and his family, then they have every right to do so.  I am very comfortable watching commercials with which I do not agree.  I expect varying points of view in a pluralistic society.

What bothers me with the Tebow Commercialgate conversation is the way sports writers, radio hosts, and special interests groups have been phrasing the question in moral terms.  Abortion is a moral issue to be sure, but freedom to produce and air a commercial is probably not.  I don’t think it is wise when Christians make a big deal about boycotting Pepsi or Disney and I don’t think making a big deal of a Tebow Pro-Life commercial is wise.

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Here are some recent articles on Tebow that might be helpful and interesting: the first is on ESPN.com by Jemele Hill and the second is by Sally Jenkins in the Washington Post.