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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: I think if you are looking for Scripture to validate a specific individual action, in which there is much controversy because it doesn’t speak directly to the act, in this case, a silent protest involving tape over one’s mouth, then you have to look at the end result of the act and determine whether or not it brings glory to God. If it doesn’t, maybe it is not the appropriate act to engage in. Personally, I don’t see how taping ones mouth with the word life printed on it is glorifying God. We see many protests today engaging an array of topics in which Christians deem as godless and immoral acts. Many are pushed to the limits and end up perpetrating evil for evil such is the case when things go awry and lead to violence. That’s not bringing glory to our Lord. We have a right to peacefully assemble in protest without fear of persecution. We remain civilly obedient as long as we protest within the parameters of the laws put forth by our governing body. But what are the products, the results, of these protests? Usually they are without results or at least without positive results. But in any case, I think they serve somewhat of a purpose. They show the general public and the lawmakers that there are those willing to make a stand. But where we need to make that stand is in the election booth. Until that happens, I think we can protest all we want to the same results. We have one of the greatest freedoms in the world today. We actually have a voice in choosing our leaders. Until we speak up and make use of that voice, all the protesting in the world isn’t going to change a thing. Putting tape over your mouth and silently protesting, in my opinion, isn’t using our collective voice to accomplish anything. But again, in anything being done, I would look to the end result. Ultimately, does the act itself bring glory to God? Just my thoughts. WOS |