Bound By Truth

Few issues reveal the heart of a society more clearly than how it treats its most vulnerable members. In South Carolina, that question now stands before us in the form of Senate Bill 323, known as the Unborn Child Protection Act. This legislation, introduced in the 126th Session of our General Assembly, seeks to bring our laws into closer alignment with both medical science and the timeless truth of Scripture: that every human life—no matter how small or hidden—is precious and worthy of protection.

What the Bill Proposes

S. 323 is a comprehensive measure that clarifies, strengthens, and expands existing pro-life protections in South Carolina law. Among its many provisions, the bill:

• Defines life clearly and scientifically. Section 44-41-610 explicitly recognizes an unborn child as “an individual organism of the species homo sapiens from conception until live birth.” By anchoring its language in the moment of conception (fertilization), the bill reflects what both embryology and common sense affirm: a new, unique human being begins at fertilization, possessing his or her own DNA and trajectory of development.

• Closes dangerous loopholes. Previous statutes allowed for abortions under exceptions that were often stretched beyond their intended scope. The new act removes exceptions for rape, incest, and so-called “fatal fetal anomalies,” while still providing clear allowances for genuine medical emergencies where the life of the mother is at stake. In such rare cases, doctors must make every reasonable effort to preserve the life of the child whenever possible.

• Strengthens accountability. Physicians who perform or attempt abortions in violation of the law face felony penalties and the loss of their medical license. Reporting requirements ensure careful documentation and review for any procedure performed under a medical-emergency exception.

• Educates the next generation. Beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, public school instruction on human growth and development must include a high-quality, medically accurate presentation of human development from fertilization to birth. This simple yet powerful step will help students understand the miracle of life and the humanity of the unborn. Taken together, these provisions send a clear message: South Carolina values life. Far from being a mere restriction, the bill is an affirmation of what the law should protect—the right of every child to be born.

The Witness of Scripture

While science confirms the humanity of the unborn, Christians must ultimately look to the Word of God for our deepest convictions. The Bible speaks with remarkable clarity about the personhood of the child in the womb.

Psalm 139:13–16 declares, “For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb… your eyes saw my unformed substance.” Here David praises God for His intimate involvement in the earliest moments of human existence. Life in the womb is not a potential life, but a personal life known and loved by the Creator.

Similarly, the Lord says to Jeremiah, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you” (Jeremiah 1:5). God’s calling of the prophet before birth demonstrates that His purposes and knowledge extend to the unborn. To take innocent life, then, is not merely a medical procedure; it is a moral offense against the God who creates and sustains that life.

Throughout Scripture, God consistently calls His people to defend the vulnerable. Proverbs 24:11 commands, “Rescue those who are being taken away to death; hold back those who are stumbling to the slaughter.” The unborn cannot speak for themselves. It is the duty of a just society—and certainly of Christ’s church—to speak and act on their behalf.

Answering Common Objections

Critics often claim that such legislation is “extreme.” Yet what could be more extreme than a culture that allows the deliberate destruction of its own children? The Unborn Child Protection Act is careful and balanced. It allows physicians to act decisively in true medical emergencies. It specifically states that contraception is not threatened, clarifying that measures to prevent fertilization remain fully legal. It focuses penalties on those who perform or aid abortions, not on mothers who are often frightened, pressured, or misinformed.

Others argue that laws cannot change hearts. While it is true that only the gospel can transform a person’s deepest desires, Scripture also teaches that righteous laws restrain evil and protect the innocent (Romans 13:1-4). Just as laws against theft or abuse express society’s moral consensus and protect the vulnerable, so too should laws protect unborn children. Legal protection is not the final goal, but it is a necessary step toward a culture that cherishes life.

A Moment of Moral Clarity

Some may prefer to avoid the discomfort of legislative debate, but moments like this demand courage. We cannot plead ignorance. Modern ultrasound technology shows us the undeniable humanity of the unborn child. We watch tiny hearts beating just weeks after conception. We see little fingers and toes long before birth. We hear the cries of those who regret abortions and the testimonies of those who chose life and now rejoice in their children.

To remain neutral in such a moment is to side with the status quo—a status quo that has already cost countless lives. As the prophet Elijah once asked Israel, “How long will you go limping between two different opinions?” (1 Kings 18:21). We cannot waver between life and death, between God’s truth and cultural convenience.

The Role of the Church

For Christians, supporting this bill is not merely a political stance; it is an expression of discipleship. James 1:27 defines pure religion as caring for orphans and widows in their distress. The unborn are the ultimate orphans—fatherless, voiceless, and defenseless. To love them means more than passing laws. It means providing tangible support for mothers in crisis, offering adoption services, counseling, and practical help. Legislation sets a protective boundary, but the church must fill that boundary with compassionate care.

Thankfully, many ministries across South Carolina are already doing this work. Crisis pregnancy centers, adoption agencies, and local churches stand ready to walk alongside women and families. The passage of S. 323 would not end their mission; it would make their work even more vital.

A Call to Action

The Unborn Child Protection Act now resides in a Senate subcommittee. From there it must advance to the full Senate and signed into law. Legislators will hear arguments from every side. They will feel pressure from lobbyists and political interests. But the most powerful testimony they can receive is the united voice of citizens who value life.

If you are a South Carolinian, I urge you to contact your senators respectfully but firmly. Express your support for S. 323. Share the truth that every unborn child is a person created in the image of God. Pray for our leaders—that the Lord would grant them wisdom and courage to do what is right.

Hope Beyond Legislation

Finally, let us remember that our hope does not rest in government alone. Passing this bill will save lives, but only the gospel of Jesus Christ can change hearts. In Christ, forgiveness is available even for those who have participated in abortion. The cross offers healing for mothers, fathers, and families wounded by past choices. Our advocacy for life must therefore be marked by both conviction and compassion—holding out the truth without compromise and the grace of Christ without limit.

What will YOU do?

South Carolina stands at a crossroads. Will we protect the smallest among us, or will we continue to permit their silent destruction? The Unborn Child Protection Act is an opportunity to affirm what God has already declared: that every human being, from the moment of conception, bears His image and deserves our defense. May we seize this moment with courage, clarity, and Christ-like love, for the glory of God and the good of generations yet unborn.