#116: Shocking, Unbiblical Nonsense at the Louisiana Baptist Convention
Dec 8, 2022
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In this episode, abolitionist pastors David Goza and Brian Gunter tackle controversial interpretations of biblical teachings on abortion. Goza argues that, based on God's forgiveness of Paul, mothers should face no consequences for terminating pregnancies, a stance that surprisingly gained traction at the Louisiana Baptist Convention. They delve into the ethics surrounding women's accountability and the mismatched rhetoric in pro-life discussions. Additionally, they examine the authenticity of scriptural preaching amidst societal pressures, urging a reevaluation of biblical interpretations.
Pastor David Goza's argument suggesting legal immunity for abortion based on ignorance misrepresents biblical teachings and moral accountability.
The rejection of Brian Gunter's amendment at the Louisiana Baptist Convention reveals a concerning leniency towards existing abortion laws within the pro-life movement.
The discussion emphasizes the need to recognize the moral weight of abortion decisions, challenging assumptions that women lack awareness of their choices.
Deep dives
Controversial Arguments on Abortion
The episode centers around a pastor's argument that abortion should not be criminalized because of the concept of mercy, as exemplified by the Apostle Paul's forgiveness after committing sins. This pastor contends that women who choose to have abortions often do so in ignorance and should be shown mercy rather than faced with criminal charges. He draws a controversial parallel between the biblical forgiveness of Paul for his past actions and the idea of extending that forgiveness to women who have abortions, suggesting that society should reconsider punitive measures against them. The hosts challenge this reasoning by asserting that equating forgiveness with the absence of justice undermines fundamental moral principles.
Resolution Context and Acknowledgment
The conversation addresses a resolution put forth during the Louisiana Baptist annual meeting that praised recent legislative actions regarding abortion but failed to call for a complete ban. An amendment introduced by abolitionist Pastor Brian Gunter sought to ensure full legal protection for pre-born children from the moment of fertilization, highlighting the inadequacies of existing pro-life resolutions. The hosts express concern that without clearly defined and enforceable laws against abortion, the narrative perpetuated by such resolutions misleads congregations into believing that the fight against abortion is essentially over. The overall message emphasizes the need for stronger legislative measures to fully protect life, rather than simply celebrating incremental progress.
Misrepresentation of Women’s Awareness
The episode critiques the argument that women are unaware of the morality of their decision to have an abortion, suggesting it underestimates women's understanding of their actions. The hosts contend that many women who seek abortions are fully aware of the implications, often arguing that they regard the termination of pregnancy as their right and a personal choice. They challenge the prevailing pro-life narrative that frames women as victims of misinformation, emphasizing the need for a more honest acknowledgment of the moral weight of the decision to abort. Citing testimonials from women discussing their choices openly, the discussion refutes claims of ignorance, arguing that many actively embrace their decisions regardless of potential consequences.
Justice Versus Mercy in Abortion Discussion
The episode delves into the complex intersection between justice and mercy in evaluating the actions of those involved in abortion. The hosts argue that mercy should not preclude justice; rather, it should coexist within a framework that recognizes moral accountability. They emphasize the importance of holding individuals legally responsible for actions deemed unlawful, asserting that abolishing laws against abortion sends a contradictory message. This stance contradicts the fundamental values represented in a belief system that holds individuals accountable for their actions, raising critical questions about the implications of advocating for mercy without corresponding legal consequences.
The Broader Implications of Pro-Life Stances
The discussion calls attention to the wider consequences of compromising on the pro-life stance concerning abortion legislation. By advocating policies that shield women from criminal charges related to abortion, the panel argues that such positions inadvertently align with pro-choice perspectives, creating a cultural acceptance of abortion. They contend that this approach not only fails to protect unborn life but also undermines the credibility of the pro-life movement as a whole. Ultimately, the conversation urges a return to a more unequivocal stance that categorically defines abortion as murder, stressing that legal recognition and protection for pre-born life are essential components of any pro-life agenda.
"They can't out-exegete us" has long been a rallying cry for abolitionist pastors in the SBC. Pastor David Goza has proven the slogan accurate once again.
At the Louisiana Baptist Convention, Goza contested that because God forgave Paul for sins he committed in ignorance, mothers should be allowed to murder their babies in the womb without any legal consequence. Shockingly, his argument was persuasive to enough messengers in the room that abolitionist pastor Brian Gunter's equal protection amendment was voted down.
Russell, James, and Rachel tested Goza's argument against scripture and plain reason, and suffice it to say, his argument was found wanting.
