In a spirited discussion at the 2025 Life & Liberty Forum in Dallas, Texas, the contentious issue of abortion took center stage, igniting passionate debate among panelists. The event, hosted by The Danbury Institute during the Southern Baptist Convention’s Annual Meeting, featured Oklahoma state Sen. Dusty Deevers, Dr. Richard Land, and David Closson from the Family Research Council. The panelists explored the implications of abortion laws, particularly whether women and their supporters should face criminal charges for seeking abortions.
Sen. Deevers, a Republican and pastor, championed the abolitionist perspective, advocating for laws that treat abortion as homicide. He argued that preborn children deserve equal protection under the law from the moment of conception, citing biblical principles as the foundation for his stance. "God’s word affirms that preborn children are full-fledged human beings created in His image," Deevers asserted, emphasizing the moral imperative to protect life. He criticized incremental approaches to abortion legislation, claiming they merely perpetuate the practice by allowing exceptions and failing to deter self-managed abortions.
On the other side of the debate, David Closson presented a pragmatic approach he described as "smash-mouth incrementalism." Closson contended that while the ultimate goal should be the abolition of abortion, the political landscape necessitates a more gradual approach. He pointed to recent statistics following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, highlighting significant declines in abortion rates in states like Arkansas and Ohio as evidence that incremental legislation can yield positive results.
Dr. Richard Land, the executive editor of the Christian Post, echoed Closson’s sentiments, advocating for a long-term strategy that seeks constitutional protections for life while acknowledging the current political realities. "If we insisted on the abolition of all abortion everywhere in the country, we would get zero because we live in a democracy," Land explained, emphasizing the need for a realistic approach that can garner broader support.
The discussion also touched on the sensitive topic of prosecuting women involved in abortions. Deevers maintained that equal protection laws should hold all parties accountable, including men who may coerce women into making such decisions. However, Land cautioned against overlooking the emotional and social factors that lead women to seek abortions, suggesting that many women are victims of circumstance.
As the debate unfolded, it became clear that the path forward for the pro-life movement is fraught with challenges. While some advocate for immediate legal action against abortion, others stress the importance of a strategic, compassionate approach that takes into account the complexities of individual situations. The panelists’ differing views highlight the ongoing struggle within the Christian community to find common ground on this deeply divisive issue.
For those interested in further exploring the implications of these discussions, organizations like the Family Research Council and the Southern Baptist Convention provide valuable resources and insights into the ongoing debates surrounding life and liberty in America. As the conversation continues, it’s essential for believers to engage thoughtfully and prayerfully in this critical issue, seeking wisdom and guidance from Scripture and the Holy Spirit.