Does the Bible Talk About Abortion? 4 Things Every Christian Woman Should Know

“The word abortion isn’t even in the Bible.”
I’ve heard this phrase more times than I can count—especially since Roe v. Wade was overturned. Maybe you’ve heard it too. Maybe it’s even made you wonder what God really thinks about abortion.

If you’ve ever felt confused about what the Bible does or doesn’t say—or if you’ve had an abortion and you’re trying to figure out where you stand with God—this post is for you.

We’re going to clear the air today. Because while the Bible may not use the word “abortion,” it absolutely has something to say.Read on for 4 things every Christian woman should know about abortion and the Bible.

1. Abortion Did Exist in Biblical Times

You might be surprised to learn that abortion isn’t a new issue.

In ancient Rome—during the time the New Testament was being written—abortion was actually common. Philosophers like Aristotle encouraged it as a way to manage population growth. And while some Roman emperors disagreed with it for political reasons, the practice was considered amoral, not immoral.

Early Christians, however, saw it differently. Writings from the early church and archaeological findings show that abortion tools existed and were used in ways eerily similar to modern procedures.

👉 Just because the word “abortion” isn’t used in Scripture doesn’t mean it didn’t exist—or that God was silent about it.

2. The Bible Is Clear About When Life Begins

Even though the term “abortion” doesn’t appear in in the Bible, Scripture is crystal clear about when life begins—and how God sees that life.

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you…” – Jeremiah 1:5
“You knit me together in my mother’s womb… I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” – Psalm 139:13–14
“Your Redeemer, who formed you in the womb…” – Isaiah 44:24
“The baby leaped in her womb…” – Luke 1:41

From the Old Testament prophets to the Gospel account of John the Baptist, God paints a vivid picture of life beginning in the womb.

Not at birth.
Not at the “first breath.”
But at conception.

Our feelings or opinions don’t change that fact. Scripture affirms the sanctity and personhood of life from its earliest moments.

3. God Didn’t Need a Separate Word for Abortion

One of the hardest verses for many women to face is this one:

“You shall not murder.” – Exodus 20:13

That’s a big word. And I want to be gentle here, because I’ve been there too.

But let’s consider what murder is: “The premeditated killing of one human being by another.”
If the Bible is clear about when life begins, then ending that life intentionally falls under what Scripture calls murder.

That’s why God didn’t need a separate word for abortion—because He had already spoken to the heart of the issue.

👉 This isn’t about condemnation. It’s about truth, which then leads us to healing.

4. God’s Grace Covers Abortion

Here’s the good news. The best news. The kind of news that changes lives and lifts shame off shoulders:

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” – 1 John 1:9

Yes, abortion existed in Bible times.
Yes, it’s a sin.
But Jesus already knew about it when He died on the cross.
He didn’t need a special Greek word for it to pay for it with His blood.

Ecclesiastes 1:9 says there’s “nothing new under the sun.” And that includes abortion.

If you’ve had one, you are not disqualified from grace.
You are not forgotten by God.
You are not beyond forgiveness.

In Him, there is freedom.
In Him, there is healing.
In Him, there is new life.

Final Thoughts

This topic is heavy. I know. But I hope it brought you clarity—and maybe even some comfort.

To recap:

Abortion did exist in Bible times
The Bible clearly teaches that life begins in the womb
God didn’t need a separate word for abortion—it’s already addressed
God’s grace is more than enough to forgive and heal

You don’t have to live in confusion or shame. The Bible does speak—and it offers both truth and love.

And if you’re ready to talk about your abortion, process what happened, and take steps toward healing with God—I’d love to walk with you.
Click here to see how we can work together to point you in the direction of the healing God has for you!

You’re not alone.

P.S. What’s something that surprised you about what the Bible says (or doesn’t say) about abortion?
I’d love to hear from you in the comments or over in the Facebook group.