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Human life is a precious gift from God, imbued with inherent dignity and worth. The Bible, from its earliest pages to the New Testament, affirms the sanctity of human life, providing a clear perspective on how God views this invaluable gift.

God as the Source of Life

The Bible begins with the affirmation that God is the Creator of life. Genesis 2:7 states, “Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.” This act of breathing life into man signifies not only the beginning of human existence but also the divine origin of life, underscoring its sacredness and God’s sovereignty over life and death.

The Sanctity of Human Life

The sanctity of human life is further emphasized in the commandment found in Exodus 20:13, “You shall not murder.” This commandment, given as part of the Law to Moses, underscores the value God places on human life, delineating the protection of life as a fundamental moral principle.

Jesus’ Teachings on Life

Jesus Christ underscored the value of human life through His teachings and actions. In Matthew 10:29-31, Jesus states, “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” Here, Jesus highlights God’s intimate knowledge and care for each person, affirming the immense value placed on human life by God.

Life as a Stewardship

The concept of life as a stewardship entrusted by God is another theme present in the Scriptures. In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Paul writes, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” This passage encourages Christians to view their lives and bodies as gifts from God, to be used in a manner that honors Him, recognizing the stewardship they have been given.

The Value of Every Life

The New Testament further illustrates the value of every life, regardless of societal status, age, or ethnicity. In Galatians 3:28, Paul declares, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” This passage underscores the equality and worth of every individual in the eyes of God, challenging societal norms that may devalue certain lives.

Respect for Life in Christian Conduct

Christian conduct, as guided by the Scriptures, reflects a deep respect for life. This includes providing care for the vulnerable, such as widows and orphans (James 1:27), and extends to loving one’s neighbor as oneself (Matthew 22:39), a principle that encompasses the protection and respect of all human life.

Conclusion

The Bible consistently affirms the sanctity and value of human life, portraying it as a divine gift to be cherished and protected. From the creation narrative to the teachings of Jesus Christ and the apostles, Scripture provides a clear and consistent message about God’s view of human life. As Christians, understanding and embracing this perspective is essential, guiding our actions and attitudes toward the respect and value of every human life, reflecting the love and care of the Creator Himself.

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).