Counsels on Secular Worldview

Counsel #2 — The Sanctity Of All Life

Picture: Counsel #2 — The Sanctity Of All Life CSe 104.1

Seventh-day Adventist Christians believe that human life is sacred and possesses inherent dignity, as it is part of God's creation (Isaiah 43:7). This biblical concept of the sanctity of life could lead to concerns about the potential devaluation of human life through cloning or genetic manipulation. Some Christians may also consider the quality of life, particularly in cases of severe genetic disorders. They may support ethical practices that alleviate suffering and promote human thriving.^[103] CSe 104.2

In addition to human life, Christians respect all living things that God has created. They may also consider the ethical implications of animal suffering and the potential for genetic technologies to improve animal welfare. CSe 104.3

Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping things that creeps on the earth. So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created them…. Then God saw everything He had made, and indeed it was very good.” Genesis 1:26, 27, 31 NKJV CSe 104.4

“Life is mysterious and sacred. It is the manifestation of God Himself, the source of all life.” Ellen White in The Faith I Live By, p. 167 CSe 104.5

Reflect: Have you ever considered how sacred and valuable your life is? In what ways has God shown you He loves you and wants you to live with Him forever? CSe 104.6