The National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference (NHCLC), a predominantly Hispanic, faith-centered, biblically based, non-partisan organization, holds the sacred nature of human life to be a fundamental tenet of our faith.
Our constituents are pro-life, believing strongly in the inherent value and dignity given to each individual by God. This belief is deeply rooted in the teachings in the Hebrew Bible and New Testament, which emphasize the intrinsic value and divine purpose of human life.
In the Hebrew Bible, the sanctity of human life is established from the beginning. Genesis 1:27 says: “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them” (NIV). This passage underscores the unique status of human beings, created in the very image of God, endowing each person with inherent dignity and worth. It is this divine imprint that demands the utmost respect and protection of all human life.
Furthermore, the sanctity of life is reinforced in the Torah through the commandment found in Exodus 20:13, “Thou shalt not kill” (NIV). This directive not only prohibits the act of taking a life, but also underscores the value of preserving life. The commandment serves as a moral foundation, reminding us that all human life is precious and must be protected.
In the Psalms, the sacred nature of human life is celebrated through poetic expression. Psalm 139:13-14 declares: “For you formed my inward parts; you made me in my mother’s womb. I will praise you; for your works are wonderful and marvelous; I am astonished, and my soul knows it well” (NIV). These verses acknowledge God’s intimate involvement in the creation of each person, emphasizing the miraculous and wondrous nature of human life from its very beginning.
The New Testament continues to affirm the sanctity of human life through the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. In Matthew 5:21-22, Jesus expands on the commandment against murder, saying, “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder, and whoever kills shall be liable to judgment. But I say to you, whoever is angry with his brother will be guilty of judgment” (NIV). Jesus elevates the principle by addressing the attitudes and intentions of the heart, reinforcing the idea that respecting life goes beyond actions to encompass our thoughts and emotions.
The apostle Paul, in his letters, also emphasizes the sacred nature of human life. In 1 Corinthians 3:16-17, he writes: “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If anyone destroys the temple of God, God will destroy him; for the temple of God, which temple you are, is holy” (NIV). This passage emphasizes the holiness of human life, drawing a parallel between the holiness of the physical body and the spiritual presence of God.
In addition, James 3:9-10 stresses the importance of respecting human life through the power of speech: “With the tongue we bless God and the Father, and with the tongue we curse men, who are made in the likeness of God. Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, this must not be so” (NIV). This admonition reminds us that every person, created in God’s likeness, deserves to be treated with honor and respect.
The NHCLC firmly believes that the sacred nature of human life is a fundamental principle woven throughout the Scriptures of the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament. From the creation narrative in Genesis to the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, the Bible consistently affirms the divine worth and dignity of every human being. As we reflect on these sacred texts, we are called to uphold and protect the sanctity of life in all its forms, recognizing the divine image within each person.
In conclusion, the NHCLC remains committed to promoting and defending the sanctity of human life. We stand united in faith, guided by Scripture, to advocate for the protection and respect of every human being, from conception to natural death.
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