Title: "The Mistreatment of Children Throughout Biblical History: A Warning to Our Nation"

Introduction:

Good morning, congregation. I want to address a complex topic that profoundly concerns me, but we must confront it as believers in Christ. I am aware that abortion is a contentious issue in our society, frequently sparking political debates. However, today's discussion will not focus on politics. Instead, we will explore the teachings of the Bible to examine how, over time, societies, leaders, and monarchs have mistreated children—and the divine perspective on this matter.

Let me clarify from the beginning: This is not a sermon to blame anyone, but rather a message of truth, grace, and a plea for repentance. The God who listened to the cries of the innocent in the past is also listening to them today. Similar to ancient times, the blood of innocent children still calls out for justice. It is our responsibility to recognize what Scripture teaches about the value of life and the direction our country is taking (according to my Biblical perspective) if we fail to repent and return to God.

1. The Sanctity of Life in Scripture:

We will begin at the Bible's starting point, which is creation. According to Genesis 1:27, God created humans in his image, male and female.

Human life is marked by God's image right from the start. Every life, starting from conception, mirrors God Himself. Life is not merely a random biological occurrence but a sacred arrangement. God is present in our formation from the earliest stages in the womb.

Psalm 139:13-16 gives us a beautiful picture of God's role in our creation. David writes, "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made."

Dear congregation, let's take a moment to reflect. Each life, whether it'syours, mine, or the baby in the womb, is a precious creation by God. This truth forms the basis of the sanctity of life. Therefore, when we address the heartbreaking issue of abortion today, we are not simply discussing a casual decision or a political debate. We are addressing a matter of life and death, a choice that impacts a life crafted by God Himself.

2. Biblical Examples of Mistreatment of Children:

Now, let's examine the historical mistreatment of children by nations. Regrettably, there exists a lengthy record of countries, kingdoms, and leaders sacrificing or murdering children, frequently under the guise of power, practicality, or misguided worship.

A. The Sacrifice of Children to Pagan Gods:

One of the most horrific examples in the Bible is the sacrifice of children to the God Molek. Leviticus 18:21 says, "Do not give any of your children to be sacrificed to Molek, for you must not profane the name of your God. I am the Lord."

Long ago, pagan societies used to offer their infants and children as sacrifices to Molek, burning them alive. This was done in the belief that it would secure their prosperity, protection, or blessings from their idols. Despite being an atrocious act of brutality, it was widely accepted as a customary ritual.

Despite their knowledge and position, even certain kings of Judah engaged in this sinful behavior. According to 2 Kings 16:3, King Ahaz followed the example of the kings of Israel by offering his son as a sacrifice. This act was carried out by King Ahaz in pursuit of political advantages, forming alliances with pagan nations, and for the sake of convenience.

And what was God's response? In **2 Kings 17:17-18**, it says, "They sacrificed their sons and daughters in the fire... So the Lord was angry with Israel and removed them from his presence."

Friends, let's take a moment to reflect on this. The whole nation of Israel experienced God's wrath due to the innocent lives lost in child sacrifices. God's fury was ignited, and He could no longer tolerate such evil acts.

Insight:

Scripture shows that child sacrifice was frequently carried out to achieve prosperity, evade difficulties, or gain favor from false deities. Today, abortion is often rationalized for the sake of convenience (excluding cases of rape, incest, or endangerment to the mother or baby) - to avoid challenges, financial struggles, or to uphold a particular lifestyle. The similarities between ancient child sacrifice and contemporary abortion are remarkable. In both scenarios, innocent lives are lost, and a cost is incurred.

B. The Killing of Innocents for Power:

Another example of the mistreatment of children comes from rulers who sought to maintain power by killing the innocent.

In Exodus 1:15-22, we see the story of Pharaoh. The Israelites were growing in number, and Pharaoh feared losing control over them. So what did he do? He ordered the killing of every male Hebrew child.

Pharaoh acted out of fear and selfishness, concerned about potentially losing power. However, the midwives, despite being commanded to commit a terrible deed, prioritized their fear of God over their fear of Pharaoh, leading them to reject the order to kill the children. Their obedience to God was rewarded.

We see a similar story in the New Testament with King Herod in Matthew 2:16-18. When Herod heard that the Messiah had been born, he felt threatened. So what did he do? He ordered the massacre of all male children two years old and under in Bethlehem. Again, innocent children were killed, all because of a ruler's fear of losing power.

Insight:

These narratives depict children being viewed as hindrances to be eliminated. Pharaoh and Herod were driven by fear and self-preservation, illustrating that even the blameless can suffer when power is worshipped. In contemporary society, abortion is frequently justified as a means to retain authority over one's life or destiny. Like Pharaoh and Herod, the quest for power or dominance can result in choices that diminish life's worth.

3. The Judgment of Nations that Harm Children:

Now, let's talk about God's response. Throughout Scripture, God does not stay silent when children are mistreated. The mistreatment of the innocent always brings judgment.

In **Jeremiah 19:4-6**, God speaks to the people of Judah, saying, "For they have filled this place with the blood of the innocent. They have built the high places of Baal to burn their children in the fire... So beware, the days are coming... when people will no longer call this place Topheth or the Valley of Ben Hinnom, but the Valley of Slaughter."

God makes it clear: the shedding of innocent blood defiles the land, and He will not let it go unpunished.

In **Ezekiel 16:20-21**, God confronts Jerusalem: "You took your sons and daughters whom you bore to me and sacrificed them as food to the idols... You slaughtered my children and sacrificed them."

God refers to the children as **His** children. He takes it personally. When a nation sacrifices or kills its children, God sees it as an offense against Him.

Insight:

God severely judged nations that spilled innocent blood, especially that of children. The downfall of Israel, the exile of Judah, and the devastation of their territories were consequences of their wicked actions. How does this apply to our nation in the present day?

Application:

Currently, there is a widespread occurrence of the loss of innocent lives due to abortion. By examining historical patterns, it becomes evident that God does not overlook the pleas of the innocent. Should our country persist on this course without seeking forgiveness, we might encounter a destiny similar to that of the ancient kingdoms that abandoned God.

4. The Call for Repentance and Restoration:

But there is hope in the church. God is merciful and always gives His people a chance to repent.

In **2 Chronicles 7:14**, God gives this promise: "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land."

A nation's healing begins with repentance. No matter how far a country has fallen, God's mercy is available if we turn from our wicked ways and seek His face.

Conclusion: A Nation at the Crossroads:

Church, as we look back at Biblical history, we see a clear pattern: the mistreatment of children—whether through sacrifice, neglect, or violence—leads to God's judgment. But repentance can turn the tide.

Today, we find ourselves at a crossroads. The shedding of innocent blood through abortion is not just a political issue; it is a Spiritual one. We must recognize that the same God who judged the nations of old is watching today. The same God who extended mercy to Nineveh also offers us mercy.

Let's be people who stand for life, who speak up for those who have no voice, and who cry out for repentance—not just for the sake of our nation, but for the sake of millions of unborn children whose lives hang in the balance.

God can bring revival and heal our land. But it begins with us—His people—humbly seeking His face and standing firm in His truth.

Final Call to Action (continued):

Together, let's ask God to open the eyes of the blind, soften the hearts of the hardened, and bring healing to those who are broken. We must stand as a light in the darkness, offering hope, love, and the truth that every life is precious in God's sight.

As we pray today, remember Jesus' words in Matthew 25:40: "Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." If we stand for the least among us—especially the unborn—we are standing for Christ Himself.

Let's pray for repentance and revival, trusting that through God's grace and mercy, millions of children will be allowed to live, and our nation will be spared from judgment.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we come before You today with heavy hearts, knowing that our nation has turned away from Your ways. We ask for Your forgiveness for the innocent bloodshed and the times we have remained silent. Lord, we pray for the unborn that You would protect them and for those contemplating abortion, that You would touch their hearts and show them a better way.

Help us, as Your people, to stand boldly for life, to be compassionate to those who are hurting, and to speak the truth in love. We ask that You heal our land, Lord. Turn our nation back to You, and let revival sweep this country. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.