Sanctity of Life
- Since abortion takes a human life it is not a moral option, except as a tragically unavoidable by-product of medical procedures necessary to prevent the death of the mother. The living but unborn are persons in the sight of God from conception and stand under God’s full protection.
- Sanctity of life is essential when considering euthanasia, assisted suicide and abortion.
- Lutherans for Life promote and support the emphasis of God’s sacred gift of human life.
Scripture References
Genesis 1:26-27; Genesis 9: 6; Exodus 20:13; Numbers 35:33; Psalm 22: 9-10; Psalm 51; Psalm 82:3-4; Psalm 139: 13-17; Job 3:16; Job 10: 9-11; Jeremiah 1: 5; Ecclesiastes 11:1; Luke 1: 41-44; John 3:16; Acts 7:19; Acts 17:26; 2 Corinthians 5:19; 1 John 2:2; 1 John 3:15
Related Resources
While LCC’s CTCR has recommended these resources as generally helpful for LCC members in terms of guidance on biomedical and life issues, it should be noted that they are ultimately prepared by and hosted by external agencies. Readers should particularly note the distinction between Lutheran and non-Lutheran sources in the list, and exercise discernment accordingly.
- Lutherans For Life – Canada is a pro-life, pro-family ministry whose mission is to “witness to the sanctity of human life through education based on the Word of God.” LFL-C provides pro-life news and events from a Canadian Lutheran perspective, including information on the March for Life in Canada.
- Lutherans For Life equips Lutherans to be positive, life-affirming voices that uphold the truth of the God-given value of human life, both in local congregations and in society. LFL (USA) provides resources and publications on pro-life issues within an American context.
- Word Of Hope provides After Abortion Care, Pregnancy Assistance, and Spiritual Care to those in crisis.
- Euthanasia Prevention Coalition provides up to date resources on physician assisted suicide and euthanasia in Canada.
- Evangelical Fellowship of Canada seeks to support the protection and promotion of life, to oppose practices that destroy or devalue human life, and to uphold the dignity of every person.
- LCMS “Life Library” includes papers, articles, and information on sanctity of life issues (including abortion, bioethics, euthanasia, and more) prepared by The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod.
- Meilaender, Gilbert. Bioethics: A Primer for Christians. 4th Edition. Wm B. Eerdmans Pub. Co. 2020. Rev. Dr. Gilbert Meilaender, a prominent American bioethicist and a member of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, is the author of this text on bioethics widely hailed as the best Christian introduction to the subject. Chapters include discussions of abortion, prenatal screening, suicide and euthanasia, refusing medical treatment, and more.
The Environment
- Stewardship of the environment includes the proper use of all the earth’s resources. This is essential for congregations and all people.
- Energy stewardship is essential for churches and schools.
Scripture References
Capital Punishment
- Capital punishment is permitted, but not mandated by God’s Word.
Scripture References
Family
- Scripturally-based parenting condemns physical abuse and recognizes corporal punishment as an alternative form of discipline.
- Christian family education is needed to nourish and strengthen families and congregations.
Scripture References
Proverbs 13:24; Proverbs 19:18; Proverbs 22:15; Proverbs 23:13; Proverbs 29:15; Ephesians 6:4
Related Resources
Concordia Publishing House – For Home includes free devotional material to re-center on Christ while at home at home with your family.
Lutheran Laymen’s League of Canada – Kid’s Resources provides a wide variety of material that can be downloaded for free!
The Role of Men and Women
- Men and women are called in baptism to the priesthood of all believers. They serve our Lord as they use their gifts and abilities. Women may not hold the office of pastor-teacher-bishop-elder and/or perform those functions distinctive to that office.
Scripture References
Acts 2:38; 1 Corinthians 12:13; 1 Peter 2:9
Marriage
- Scriptural definition of marriage is the union of one man and one woman.
Scripture References
Genesis 1:27-28, 2:18-25; Matthew 19:4-6
Sexuality
- Sexual relations outside of marriage is sin.
- Homosexuality is sinful. God’s redeeming love of Christ is offered to all through repentance and faith in Christ. A ministry of healing and restoration is needed.
Scripture References
Romans 1:26-27; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, 13, 18; 1 Corinthians 10:8; Galatians 5:19; Ephesians 5:3, 5; Colossians 3:5; Hebrews 13:4; Revelation 21:8; Leviticus 18:22
LCC Facebook
LCC Twitter
LCC Instagram