Book Review: ‘Abortion’

This book is part of the ‘Talking Points’ series which aims to provide the reader with a Christian perspective on some of the ethical issues that we face today. They provide the reader with an overview of the topic and how to approach sensitive issues with compassion and wisdom.

Abortion has been a fiercely debated topic for many years and in the UK there has been a progressive relaxation in our laws which has enabled abortion to become accessible – even from home. It is estimated that there were 200,000 abortions in the UK in 2018. This is a staggering figure, and it is likely that we will have met or spoken to someone who may have undergone an abortion. It is a sensitive topic that continues to hit the headlines – but how do we engage as Christians with this topic?

Ling starts by introducing the two prominent voices in the abortion debate, those that oppose abortion known as ‘pro-life’ and those that advocate abortion known as ‘pro-choice’. Ling also highlights some of the medical inconsistencies that we are faced with. On one hand we have dedicated neonatal teams that look after those that are born prematurely but on the other hand there are those that are terminating the lives of those are of a similar age to those on the neonatal ward. It is not just the actions but also the words that are spoken that makes a huge difference. Detached clinical language is used within abortion clinics such as using the term ‘pregnancy’ for a baby to prevent attachment of the mother to the baby that is growing in the womb.

Following the introduction to the subject Ling explores the question ‘who are we?’ and ‘when are we human?’. We are made in the image of God and He is clear in His instruction to us that ‘thou shalt not kill’. Ling explores the science behind the arguments and so much of the abortion debate hinges on ‘when is the embryo/foetus considered to have life’. This is a very controversial topic which much confusion and there have been many theories put forward by scientists. However, the Bible clearly teaches us that we are unique individuals from the moment of conception and that every embryo is a distinct human life – we are God’s creation and are fearfully and wonderfully made.
Ling explains that since the fall, the human race has tried to explain the meaning of life through the means of philosophy and it is through these theories that the phrase ‘I am not my body’ has come into being. This philosophy separates the mind from the body and the pro-choice movement have used this as part of their rhetoric that a woman can do what she wants with her own body. Following on from this is the argument about personhood, Ling presents some of the most worrying views which stem from whether we have lived long enough or have met certain criteria to be considered worthy of saving and to be considered a person.

Ling acknowledges that this is a complex topic but sets out five biblical principles as a framework for us to use to participate in conversation about abortion as Christians. This is followed by exploration of some of the most asked questions in the abortion debate and how as Christians we can respond to them, particularly when faced with a friend or colleague who may be considering an abortion. Ling’s responses are full of compassion but hold fast to the Christian morals and principles. Her responses allow those to express their views but without causing significant upset or pain to those who may be found in a difficult situation as a harsh word can do more harm than providing a listening ear. Ling reminds us of the importance of not forgetting about the man’s role in this debate, their voices may not always be heard but they equally can be hurt or feel guilty about abortion. They also provide support and can be advocates in honouring and protecting women. Abortion is a complex and emotional topic and the debate still rumbles on throughout the world, however Ling provides us with a good overview of the topic and importantly practical advice in how to respond as Christians.

Details: Talking Points: Abortion by Dr Lizzie Ling & Vaughan Roberts (April 2020) published by The Good Book Company (ISBN 9781784984434) RRP: £3.99 Available from booksellers and also stocked by the Christian Bookshop Ossett.