As evangelicals we hear much about being “pro-life.” I’ve struggled to understand exactly what that means. Does it mean that we are simply anti-abortion, or does it mean something more? Yes, I take a firm stand against abortion, but that cannot be the extent of holding the pro-life position. Not only must we stand against abortion, we must stand for adoption. My wife and I have talked much about adoption and pray that we will be able to, Lord willing, adopt a child in the future. How can we as believers, especially Gentile Christians, not have a heart for adoption? Need we be reminded of the fact that we who were once far off have now been brought near by the blood of Christ? The Scriptures are replete with reminders that we have been adopted into the family of God (Romans 8, Galatians 4:1-7, Ephesians 1:5). Adoption is one of the many beautiful facets of the gospel. Thus, the gospel is our motivation for adoption. We see ourselves as the child without a father, having no hope. That is who we once were and would still be, if not for the shed blood of Christ as He stood in our place for our sin. With this understanding, along with clear commands to care for orphans (James 1:27), we must lead the way in adoption. Only then can we claim the title of ”pro-life.”
I haven’t had the chance to read it yet, but Russell Moore’s book, Adopted for Life, has gotten great reviews.
Also, check out the ministry, Together for Adoption, for more information on the subject.
