WHAT NOW?

A GOSPEL-FOCUSED RESPONSE FOR THE OVERTURNING OF ROE V. WADE

BY THE TEACHING PASTORS OF MARS HILL CHURCH

We commend the decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, and are thankful to God for this accomplishment (Ps 107), but we do so in sobriety, compassion, and wisdom.

In our family of faith, we know women who have had abortions for myriad reasons. For those haunted by the decision, guilt and shame press them into sorrow and lament. Yet, we affirm confidently the restorative mercy and grace of the Lord Jesus. Therefore, our words to this issue should be humble, compassionate, and caring (1 Thess 2:7; Gal 6:1–2; Heb 5:1–2). Knowing that humility and grace are far more persuasive and influential to lasting gospel influence, our words should also be kind, gentle, and free from boasting (Rom 2:4; 2 Tim 2:23–26; Titus 3:2; 1 Peter 3:15). Knowing that Israel was warned to abstain from and abhor the sacrifice of children (Jer 7:5–10), that they ceased for a season (2 Kings 23:10) but then reintroduced infanticide to the glory of false gods (Jer 18:12; 19:3–5), we should weep and pray (Psalm 119:136; Phil 3:8; 2 Peter 2:7–8). Knowing there have been very real physical threats of violence towards churches and places of care for women and children, we should act and speak wisely (Matt 10:16).

“There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” Prov 12:18

“When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.” Prov 10:19

As a congregation, we rarely react, respond quickly, or add commentary from the pulpit on matters of political or intense social interest in an effort to avoid distraction from what is primary and central, the good news of Jesus Christ (Prov 17:27; Eph 1:17–19; 3:8). However, we have a role to play in equipping ourselves for the works of ministry, in prayer, and in directing our church family towards ways we can step into the new and greater needs that will present themselves to care for women, children, and families (Micah 6:8; James 1:27). This role takes wisdom and enduring intentionality. So, our response must be biblical, measured, and lasting beyond an impermanent cultural moment. With the overturn of Roe v. Wade, we’ve crossed a starting line few ever expected and into a race we must steward well (Heb 12:1). Let us channel our delight into dedication to the support of life by continuing our efforts as a church in resourcing, participating, and praying for avenues such as women’s care, fostering, and adoption.

Recent helpful resources to consider:

• Roe v Wade Has Been Overturned. Now What? Crossway Interview w/ Scott Kulsendorf, author of Case For Life • This Is The Day That The Lord Has Made, Al Mohler • After Roe, Choose Compassion over Culture War, James Forsyth • After Roe, How Do We Stand For Life, Lauren Green McAfee • Three Ways To Sympathize With Woman Considering An Abortion, Andy Jones • To End the Killing of Babies, We Need a Loving Revolution, Rebecca McLaughlin

“Keep up a humble sense of your own faults, and that will make you compassionate to others.”

Richard Baxter