“So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them” (Genesis 1:27). You won’t find in this or any other passage of Scripture an exception to the fact that all humans are created in the image of God. Yet what is seemingly the case more and more is that every pro-life politician who puts forth anti-abortion legislation aimed at protecting the unborn excludes those conceived as a result of rape or incest. The latest politician is Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.).

               A few days ago, Senator Graham commented on a bill he introduced that would ban abortions after 20 weeks. In a statement he said, “It is time for someone to speak up on behalf of these babies”. I agree with the Senator; it is time to speak up on behalf of them, ALL of them. You see, the bill introduced makes exceptions in the case of rape, incest and the life of the mother. I’m reminded of how during the campaign in 2012, there were several Republican Senate candidates who were painted as insensitive toward women because their anti-abortion stance made no exception in cases of rape or incest. Naturally, they took criticism from the Obama campaign, the pro-choice candidate, liberal politicians and the liberal media. But they also took criticism from Republicans, conservatives and the like. Governor Romney, who ran on a pro-life platform even called for one of these Senators to withdraw from the Senate race based on his view. The Romney campaign’s official pro-life position held out an exception in cases of rape, incest and the life of the mother. While maybe taking the higher moral ground than the Democratic platform position, neither position was biblical.

               And so here we are again with Republican Senator Lindsey Graham’s proposed bill. Let me say a few things, first; I can appreciate any legislation or for that matter anything that lessens abortions. Ultimately, we should wish there be no abortions, but the fewer the better. Secondly, though a Christian position, the pro-life position is not necessarily reserved for Christians. There are those who don’t follow Christ who consider themselves pro-life. Lastly, we cannot pretend there aren’t any challenges ahead for all involved when a child is conceived in cases rape or incest. And the ethical dilemma faced when the life of the mother is at stake is heart wrenching. But this doesn’t change the biblical truth; all humans are created in the image of God. God’s care for the unborn makes no exception for time or the manner of conception. Scripture is abundantly clear on this point. We only have to consider it in our policies and personal convictions.

               As a nation, we can’t expect God’s blessings when we ignore His will. And we can’t expect those opposed to God to have any concern for the authority of Scripture. But as Christians, we also cannot afford to remain silent. Though the truth must always be stated with grace, it must be stated. As Christians, we must consider all that God has said. Many may claim that to be opposed to abortion in the case of rape or incest is a radical position. I would contend the most radical position is one that is opposed to God thinking we know better than He. A pro-life position with exceptions for rape and incest may be the view many Christians hold, but it’s not a Christian view. As believers in Jesus Christ, we must accept His authority. And we must urge and pray that our political leaders do the same. Our God is a gracious and patient God who has spoken on this issue. Let us open our hearts to His Word and here from Him.