Your questions assume that most abortions are murders but also acknowledge the reality of “hard cases” that surface in many abortion discussions. As our society prepares to mark another anniversary (Jan. 22) of the Roe vs. Wade Supreme Court ruling that legalized abortion, I appreciate the chance to revisit this issue.

Mostly murders

From the biblical perspective abortion always involves the taking of a human life, a killing. The strong majority of abortions in our country are “elective,” and, for Christians, the reasons for them do not constitute “justifiable homicides.” About 75 percent of those choosing abortions cite reasons that have little to do with the preservation of life itself and much to do with preserving personal preferences: having a baby is too expensive, creates problems with a spouse or live-in partner, interferes with work or school or reputation in the community, or necessitates being a single parent. Most abortions are murders.

Exceptions for emotions?

Are abortions justifiable when the pregnancy results from rape, incest, or gives evidence of severe fetal abnormalities? These are emotionally charged questions, and I seek to respond compassionately and sympathetically but truthfully. One sinful act of violence (elective abortion) is not a right response to a prior sinful act of rape or incest. Citing quality of life is not an adequate reason to terminate life. Only about five percent of abortions done in the United States are performed for these kinds of reasons.

So much deserves to be said on this. A brief but helpful article on abortions in emotionally charged circumstances may be accessed at the Web site of Christian Life Resources, a pro-family organization affiliated with WELS: www.christianliferesources.com/?5077.

To save the mother?

Are there times when the killing of a fetus is not murder but a morally acceptable taking of human life? Yes. To use wording that I found helpful, abortion is allowable “to prevent the death of the mother, while doing everything possible to preserve both mother and child.” To say “prevent the death of the mother” is sometimes seen as preferable to “save her life.” Nevertheless, sometimes terminating fetal life needs to be done to prevent the mother’s death, which then will also result in the child’s death.