QUESTION: I’ve heard many different terms describing the positions of those who either oppose or favor abortion and euthanasia (pro-life, pro-choice, anti-abortion, death with dignity, etc.). What is CLR’s position on all of these terms?

ANSWER: The position of CLR is always rooted in God’s Word. This means we value human life because Jesus gave us absolute value through his death and resurrection (John 3:16). We believe that God alone holds authority over life and death (Deuteronomy 32:39; 1 Samuel 2:6). We believe that man is responsible for the preservation and protection of human life (Genesis 9:5-6; Luke 10:27). We also believe that the right attitude is critical in making godly decisions (Galatians 2:20; 1 Corinthians 10:31).

The terms you mentioned have certain connotations. We consider ourselves “pro-life” but that does not mean we endorse bombing abortion clinics nor hurting or killing abortionists. Some abortion advocates call us “anti-abortion” because it connotes a damaging image for our opposition to a perceived freedom. Many people use the term “pro-choice” but seldom define the “choices” they promote. The latest story comes from right-to-die groups who say they want to reference “assisted suicide” in terms that are more palatable. They contend that “right to die” or “death with dignity” are neutral terms that more accurately portray their position.

Labels are continually used to identify various agencies and beliefs. CLR’s pro-life label is likely to endure for many years. Yet our real label is that we are Christian, and therefore we teach that all deeds and decisions should be made out of love for God and respect for our neighbor.