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NASB | 1 John 3:17 But whoever has the world's goods, and sees his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him? |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 1 John 3:17 But whoever has the world's goods (adequate resources), and sees his brother in need, but has no compassion for him, how does the love of God live in him? |
Bible Question: I know some people who participate in abortion clinic protests by placing tape over their mouths with the word LIFE written on them. Based on I John 3:17, I don't see this as a scriptural response. Offering the young ladies help or another way other than abortion seems to be more scriptural. A silent protest such as just described would seem to fit better at courthouses and legislative offices where one could pray for those making decisions to choose life giving and affirming laws and judgements. I know this is a "hot" topic, but I would appreciate some comments, especially if someone can show a scriptural basis for these types of protests. |
Bible Answer: Bows44: Placing a tape over the mouth with the word "Life" written on it is little if anything more than a Band-Aid approach. It does nothing to solve the underlying problem, which is sin against God and His commandments. In this case it is specifically the Sixth Commandment, "You shall not murder" (Exodus 20:13). We cannot by protesting evil turn it into holiness any more than our legislature can enact laws that turn sinners into saints or our courts ajudicate righteous living and moral conduct from the bench. Christians must learn that the gospel is God's power for salvation to everyone who believes (Rom. 1:16), and regeneration comes from God and from no other (see John 3:3-8). It is therefore our burden to make disciples of all nations, teaching them to observe the Lord's commandments (Matthew 28:19,20). This is what Christians are commanded to do, and this gospel is what God uses to change lives. God changes lives from the inside out through regeneration. And we are called to be heralds of God's Good News which has power to regenerate. We cannot proclaim the message of the gospel by sticking a tape over our mouths. --Hank |