This volume has grown out of years of teaching and research
in the area of Christian ethics. Several years ago I began to realize that
abortion not only is an intensely ethical issue in its own right, but is
also symptomatic of a larger crisis in contemporary American human values.
The abortion controversy reflects tensions and conflicts felt widely in marriage,
the family, role identities, and human sexuality in general. Addressing the
morality of abortion means addressing the very meaning and value of human
life.
Any book about such a complex social reality is bound to have
its limitations, and this book is no exception. I make no claim to having
presented a comprehensive analysis of all the intricate psychological,
philosophical, moral, social, and theological issues involved. I do hope,
however, that I have presented enough information for the reader to formulate,
in the light of Scripture, thoughtful positions on the basic moral issues
involved.
I wish to acknowledge the encouragement and support I have received
from my wife, Robin, and from many students and friends to complete this
book. A special word of thanks is in order for Mrs. Adelaida Schlueter, who
patiently typed the manuscript, and for James Moran, who assisted in reading
the manuscript and in preparing the bibliography.
John
Jefferson Davis
Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary
S. Hamilton, Massachusetts
Chapter One ||
Table of Contents