Grace Baptist Church
June 24 and 25, 2017
David W. Hegg
Senior Pastor
Social Values Statement: “Sanctity of Life”
Exodus 20:13; Psalm 139
What do we mean when we say “life is sacred”? And what
makes it sacred anyway? Finally, what are the dangers we face as a culture
when life is no longer considered “sacred”? The answers to these questions,
as are those raised by every social issue, depend on where you locate God
in your worldview. As Christ-followers, our view of life is grounded in the
existence God as revealed in the Bible and flows from what God’s Word
says about life and death.
Introduction:
Where We’ve Come
Sanctity of Life:
We believe human life begins at the moment of conception and
continues until God’s predetermined number of days for that life are
completed. Consequently, we are opposed to in vitro and in vivo
abortion, and all forms of euthanasia.
What Do We Believe?
1) Life and death belong to Almighty God, and he sets the rules for it.
2) Life comes from the hand of God, and begins at conception.
3) Length of life is set by God who alone has the right to bring it to an
end.
4) Life is a precious gift from God, and is to be lived out in ways that
glorify Him.
Why Do We Believe it?
The truth of God’s Word
The false wisdom of culture
How Shall We Live Out our Beliefs?
Rooted
Eighth Message
Read ...
Reflect ...
Discuss ...
Retain!
The following readings and questions are meant to help you
reflect on the truths and themes found in today’s sermon:
Psalm 139
Monday:
How does Psalm 139 teach us to value life? In what ways have you been
desensitized to valuing human life? Why is it necessary to allow the
Scripture to teach us the proper view of human life? Ask the Lord to instruct
you from His Word how you ought to value human life.
Psalm 139:13-16
Tuesday:
In these verses the Psalmist rejoices over the thought of the Almighty God
being intimately involved in creating him. How should the thought of the
creator of the universe having intimate participation in creating every living
being create joy and adoration? Take some time to pray for various
organizations and professions that fight to preserve human life.
Wednesday: Job 1:21, 14:1-6; Psalm 139:1-12
Job had a deep conviction that God was in control of all of life.
What comfort can be found in knowing that God is in control of every
aspect of life, including death? How can you comfort someone with the
truths found in Psalm 139:1-12 (His intimate involvement in the details of
our day (1-4); His constant presence (5-8); His fatherly hand guiding our
every move (9-10); His inability to be limited or intimidated by our
circumstances (11-12)? Ask the Lord for an opportunity to do so.
Deuteronomy 30:19-20
Thursday:
This passage in Deuteronomy says that choosing life is obeying God.
What happens when society devalues human life? In what ways do you
see American society living in opposition to this passage in Deuteronomy?
What are some practical things you can do today that would highlight the
true worth of people made in God’s image and demonstrate that your life
is a precious gift from God?
Matthew 5:21-22; Luke 10:25-37; James 2:1-13
Friday:
Jesus deepened our understanding of how we value human life - by
starting at the heart level. Harboring hate in our hearts, not caring for our
neighbor and showing partiality are also ways we devalue the sanctity of
life. How can you uphold the dignity of an image-bearer today? Ask the
Lord to show you any ways you have been living contrary to His Word.
Questions? Need additional help or resources?
Email Pastor David at: [email protected]