Christian Values Clash with Ohio’s Recent Constitutional Change
In a recent vote that has reverberated across Ohio and the nation, a constitutional amendment known as Issue 1 has ignited a firestorm of debate about the sanctity of life and the value placed on it. For some, it’s seen as a triumph for abortion, while for others it’s a grievous blow to the pro-life position.
My statement on the tragic passing of Issue 1 in Ohio:
The truth will ultimately prevail. The truth always trumps temporary political victories. What is the truth? Human life begins at the moment of fertilization. Abortion is an act of homicidal violence that kills a living…
— Lila Rose (@LilaGraceRose) November 8, 2023
With 99% of the vote counted, Issue 1 received the support of over 56% of Ohio voters, with over 43% in opposition. The text of Issue 1 asserts that “Every individual has a right to make and carry out one’s reproductive decisions,” including contraception, fertility treatment, continuing a pregnancy, miscarriage care and abortion. The heart of the issue lies in how this amendment interprets the right to abortion.
While the amendment does mention the possibility of prohibiting abortion after fetal viability, it opens a door by specifying that it cannot be prohibited if a physician deems it necessary to protect the mother’s life or health. This caveat has alarmed many in the pro-life community, as it appears to pave the way for abortion up until birth, should a doctor determine it to be in the best interest of the mother.
The Bible clearly teaches that life is a precious gift from God, and we are called to treasure and protect it. In Psalm 139:13-16, we are reminded of God’s intimate involvement in the creation of every individual: “You brought my inner parts into being; You wove me in my mother’s womb.” This passage underscores the sanctity of life in the womb, reinforcing the Christian belief that abortion is the termination of a life created by God.
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The passing of Issue 1 in Ohio marks the fourth state to recognize abortion as a constitutional right since the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2022 Dobbs v. Women’s Health Organization ruling, which stated that the U.S. Constitution does not contain a right to abortion. It’s noteworthy that Ohio, unlike other states with similar amendments, supported former President Donald Trump, known for his pro-life stance, in the 2020 presidential election.
Another unique aspect in Ohio is the pro-life protections that were in place, including a six-week abortion ban. Although this ban was held in abeyance by the courts at the time of the referendum, it was estimated to prevent nearly 15,000 abortions each year. The passage of Issue 1 effectively overruled this protection.
As this issue continues to generate heated discussions, it is crucial for Christians to stand firm in their belief that life is sacred and a gift from God. While the political landscape may evolve, the biblical principle of treasuring the lives God has given us remains steadfast, and it is our duty to uphold this belief with unwavering faith. {eoa}
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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.
