Christianity and Medical Ethics

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Abortion

Christians believe that life is special and sacred. For instance, all major Christian denominations (or groups) teach that we have a soul(a part of us that lives on after death), and that we have an opportunity to have a relationship with God. The Bible also says that humans have been created in God's image (Genesis 1:27), which means that humans have certain qualities and characteristics that God has (E.g. They can make things, they have the ability to reason, they were created good etc.). Christians also believe that God values human life greatly, and that God has shown this by sending Jesus to die for us:

'But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.' (Romans 5:8)

Many Christians also believe that as God has given us life, so only God has the right to take it away:

'The Lord brings death and makes alive; he brings down to the grave and raises up.' (1 Samuel 2:6)

Other passages in the Bible seem to imply that God has in mind the life someone will live, before they are born:

'Before I formed you in the womb I knew you.' (Jeremiah 1:5)

All these things suggest that each individual person is to be treated with respect and dignity.

The Roman Catholic Church

The Roman Catholic Church is totally and utterly opposed to abortion. In fact, anyone found to have had an abortion, or aiding someone to do so, will be excommunicated from the Church (made to leave it). Direct involvement in abortions is also considered to be a mortal sin. Unlike venial sins, these are sins committed in the full knowledge that they are wrong, and unless forgiveness is sought, will result in eternal separation from God.

The Church of England (Anglican Church)

The Church of England generally condemns abortion. However, unlike the Roman Catholic Church who admits to no exceptions, the Church of England does. Although never a good thing, abortions are said to be morally acceptable in situations where the mother's life is in danger due to the pregnancy. Abortions are also permitted at a late stage if, and only if, 'serious foetal handicap' will result in the child surviving only a short time after being born.

Fertility Treatment

Many Christians are against fertility treatment, they believe that

  • Only God should decide when a humans life begins.
  • Children are a gift from God not a privilege or a right

Quotes

The bible says that "Hannah had no children... Because God prevented her from having children" This means that sometimes God prevents people from having children and so we shouldnt let people who cant have children, have them.

One of the 10 commandments

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