Tom Pennington's New Book: The Biblical View of Abortion

What does the Bible say about abortion? How should Christians respond to the pressing issue of abortion in our culture today? In this episode of the Straight Truth Podcast, Dr. Richard Caldwell is joined by special guest Dr. Tom Pennington, author of a book about to be released, The Biblical View of Abortion: God’s Heart for Life in the Womb. Together, they dive deep into the topic of abortion, examining it from a biblical, historical, and pastoral perspective. For Christians wrestling with how to think biblically about abortion or for those seeking to equip themselves to engage in conversations about abortion, this episode offers both clarity and encouragement. This episode does not shy away from the hard truths. Dr. Pennington’s insights are grounded in Scripture. He’s careful in his presentations of the truth and seeks to accurately define terms and language used that are often taken for granted. His wisdom and insight on this subject are shaped by his view of and reverence for the Word of God and by his many years of pastoral ministry, making this a must-watch episode for anyone who wants to understand what the Bible says about abortion and what the Christian understanding and response ought to be.

Dr. Pennington shares how this book originated from a sermon series he preached at Countryside Bible Church as a result of the Dobbs vs. Jackson Supreme Court case and decision handed down. He explains the importance of equipping Christians with a clear understanding of what Scripture says about life in the womb and how to navigate the arguments surrounding abortion in today’s culture. The conversation highlights how this issue is not just a social or political matter but a deeply spiritual one, rooted in our understanding of God as the Creator of life. In the forthcoming book, he lays out six arguments from the Scriptures to help Christians know what the Bible says about life. Today, he walks us through some of those things.

One of the key points of the discussion is the distinction between biological life and personhood—a central argument in the pro-abortion movement. Dr. Pennington carefully unpacks the biblical evidence that life begins at conception and that every human being is made in the image of God. He walks us through some key passages from Genesis, Exodus, Psalms, and Jeremiah, where it is clear that God is the author of life and is intimately involved in the entire process, owning the development of life in the womb, even as He uses secondary causes. Dr. Pennington also addresses how modern science, such as embryology, aligns with the biblical view, further reinforcing the truth that life is sacred from conception.

Dr. Caldwell and Dr. Pennington also discuss the flawed arguments often used to justify abortion, including claims about viability, bodily autonomy, and the so-called “hard cases” involving rape, incest, and diagnosed disabilities while in the womb. While acknowledging the emotional weight of these situations, Dr. Pennington emphasizes the sufficiency of Scripture in guiding our understanding of these complex issues. He reminds Christians that God’s Word is the ultimate authority and that our hope lies in trusting His wisdom and sovereignty. Dr. Pennington candidly addresses the spiritual implications of abortion, pointing to the broader cultural rejection of God and His design for humanity. He explains how Satan has been a “murderer from the beginning” (John 8:44) and how the attack on life is ultimately an attack on the image of God in humanity. Yet, the conversation is also filled with hope as both guests emphasize the redemptive power of the gospel for anyone who has participated in the sin of abortion. Dr. Pennington compassionately appeals to listeners, sharing the gospel, a message of exceedingly good news that offers forgiveness of sins through a new and reconciled life to God through Jesus Christ.

Throughout the discussion, Dr. Pennington demonstrates his pastoral heart, providing encouragement and practical advice for Christians who want to engage with this issue. Whether it’s equipping believers to defend the sanctity of life biblically or helping them share the gospel with those who are pro-abortion, the focus remains on glorifying God and upholding His truth. If you’d like to explore this topic further, be sure to pre-order Dr. Pennington’s book, The Biblical View of Abortion: God’s Heart for Life in the Womb, available currently at TheWordUnleashed.org and will soon be at Amazon. This resource will equip you with biblical arguments, historical context, and practical guidance to address one of the most significant issues of our time. To hear more biblical discussions on faith, culture, and theology, subscribe to the Straight Truth Podcast and join us for weekly episodes. Let’s stand firm in truth and shine the light of Christ in a dark world.