Sanctity of Life

Cecil W Thorn

In a world where the value of life is often debated, the Scriptures present an unwavering perspective on its sanctity. From the beginning, God established human life as sacred, weaving His divine image into each soul and setting humanity apart with inherent dignity. His provision, care, and intentional design extend to all—both the born and the unborn. By examining God’s Word, we can see that every life holds unique worth and purpose in His eyes. Through His love, we are called to honor, protect, and value life in all its stages, acknowledging that each person is part of His divine plan. This study will explore the sanctity of life as revealed in Scripture, God’s intentional provision for every person, and the high value He places on life, inviting us to reflect on our role in honoring His creation.

1. Sanctity of Life

Genesis 1:27
“So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.”

Commentary
This foundational verse establishes the sanctity of human life, as it reveals that humans are created in God’s own image. This divine imprint endows every person with inherent worth and dignity. The sanctity of life stems from this divine creation, underscoring that every life, from conception, holds sacred value because it reflects the Creator Himself. Human life is, therefore, not merely biological but imbued with spiritual significance and worth.

Psalm 139:13-16
“For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb… Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.”

Commentary
David’s words emphasize God’s intimate knowledge and care for each life, even in the womb. This passage highlights that God not only creates life but also actively shapes and knows each person before birth. The detailed care God takes in forming each individual underscores the sanctity of every human life, as each one is precious and purposed by God Himself.

2. God’s Provision for Both the Born and Unborn

Jeremiah 1:5
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.”

Commentary
God’s words to Jeremiah reveal that He not only forms each person in the womb but has purposes and plans for each life even before birth. This affirms the worth of the unborn and God’s intimate involvement in each life. The notion that God knows and calls individuals before they are born emphasizes His provision and value for life from its very inception.

Isaiah 46:3-4
“Listen to me, O house of Jacob, all the remnant of the house of Israel, who have been borne by me from before your birth, carried from the womb; even to your old age I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save.”

Commentary
This passage highlights God’s provision and care from conception through every stage of life. The imagery of God carrying His people from the womb to old age reflects His unfailing support and provision. It underscores the value He places on each person’s life journey, affirming that His concern spans all of life, born and unborn alike.

3. Value God Places on Life

Deuteronomy 30:19
“I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live.”

Commentary
God’s exhortation to “choose life” indicates that He values life as a precious gift. This choice reflects His desire for individuals and communities to embrace life in alignment with His will. It speaks to the communal aspect of valuing life, encouraging actions that honor and sustain life not only for the individual but for future generations.

John 10:10
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

Commentary
Jesus’ words in John emphasize His mission to bring abundant life, contrasting sharply with the destruction caused by sin. Jesus’ desire for people to experience fullness of life underscores God’s ultimate value on life itself—not just existence, but a life enriched by His presence and purpose. It is a call to live lives that reflect God’s image, value His creation, and uphold the sanctity of life in every form.


My Thoughts

The Scriptures present an unmistakable message about the sanctity and value of life. Through verses that span the Bible, we see God’s intentional creation, provision, and plan for every person, from conception to old age. Life is more than biological existence; it’s a sacred reflection of God’s image, woven with purpose and worth by the Creator Himself. This calls us not only to recognize life’s value but to act as stewards, protecting and honoring life in all stages. As we journey through this study, may we deepen our understanding of God’s heart for humanity and feel compelled to uphold the dignity and sacredness of every life. Through honoring life, we honor Him who is the source of life itself.