Worldviews in Conflict: The Pro-Life Argument Easily Won (published 6-30-2022; article #337)

Introduction

My 6/26/2022 article mentioned the proper 6/24/2022 Ununited Socialist States of America (USSA) Supreme Court decision that overturned the evil Roe vs. Wade decision by a previous Supreme Court. This article expands on the so-called pro-choice versus pro-life debate that this once-great nation continues to endure. The expansion is based on worldviews in conflict.

I do not apologize for using the phrase “the murder of the unborn child” instead of the euphemistic term “abortion.” That is my choice. Your choice is whether or not to read what I write on this topic. I hope that you choose to read.

I will affirm the pro-life position. My reasoning will be based on logic and fact, not on emotion and subjective opinion. Sadly, the rational art of proper reasoning from logic and fact is often overcome by irrational thoughts from emotion and subjective opinion.

Conviction

I will not flip-flop or be wishy-washy as the first president of the USSA is on this topic. I quote from “Psaki dodges question on when Biden believes human life begins: Biden previously said that life begins at conception but changed his mind.” Fox News, by Andrew Mark Miller, 2/1/2022. I added yellow highlights for emphasis.

In September, Biden appeared to change his stance that life begins at conception while discussing a controversial abortion law in Texas.

"I respect those who believe life begins in the moment of conception – I respect that," he told reporters. "Don't agree, but I respect that."

Before making that statement, Biden had said multiple times dating back to at least 2008 that he believes life begins at conception.

"I’m prepared to accept that at the moment of conception there’s human life and being, but I’m not prepared to say that to other God-fearing, non-God-fearing people that have a different view," Biden, who identifies as Catholic, said in 2015.

The divinely inspired James (who wrote to Jewish Christians in the first century) stated:

A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways. (James 1:8 KJV)

Unlike the first president of the USSA, I am not a double-minded man. My ways are stable. I wish that President Biden could say the same.

Definitions

Before my affirmative, I must define my terms, which are in this section and in the sections that follow. Definitions are from Merriam-Webster, or “old man Webster's dictionary,” as I have heard folks in these parts call it for years. I have added my highlighting in yellow and underlined certain words and phrases. My note is in brackets.

Definition of pro: 1: an argument or evidence in affirmation.

Definition of life. [Note: twenty definitions are listed. I list three here as relevant to my affirmative.]
1a: the quality that distinguishes a vital and functional being from a dead body
b: a principle or force that is considered to underlie the distinctive quality of animate beings
c: an organismic state characterized by capacity for metabolism (see metabolism sense 1), growth, reaction to stimuli, and reproduction
8: a vital or living being; specifically, a person
18: an opportunity for continued viability

Definition of person: 1: human, individual

Definition of human: a bipedal primate mammal (Homo sapiens): a person

Definition of Homo sapiens: humankind

Definition of humankind: the human race; humanity

Definition of humanity: 2a: the quality or state of being human

Definition of baby: 1a(1): an extremely young child, especially an infant

Definition of child: 1a: a young person, especially between infancy and puberty

Thus, using Mr. Webster, I define “human life” as a “person” or a “human.” This, of course, should be common knowledge. A young child or baby is a person, according to Mr. Webster.

Merriam-Webster defines “abortion” as (with my highlighting and underline added):

1: the termination of a pregnancy after, accompanied by, resulting in, or closely followed by the death of the embryo or fetus, such as
a: spontaneous expulsion of a human fetus during the first 12 weeks of gestation — compare miscarriage
b: induced expulsion of a human fetus

Merriam-Webster defines “fetus” as (with my highlighting added):

specifically, a developing human from usually two months after conception to birth

Some abortions are miscarriages that happen naturally. Other abortions are induced by medical procedure. I will affirm the pro-life truth against induced abortions.

Note that Mr. Webster defined abortion as the “induced expulsion of a human fetus,” which results in “the death of the embryo or fetus.” Mr. Webster, therefore, affirms by definitions my position that the unborn child is human and that an induced abortion results in the death of the human fetus.

Affirmative from Science and the Declaration of Independence

Science

Despite President Biden's unstable double-mindedness, science verifies that human life begins at the moment of conception. The fact is not in doubt. I am not aware of any current so-called pro-choice argument that claims that life does not begin at conception.

I could cite many sources to prove that human life begins at conception. I quote from the WebMD article “Slideshow: Fetal Development Month by Month,” WebMD, reviewed by Amita Shroff, 2/24/2021. I added my yellow highlights to the quote.

Fertilization happens when a sperm meets and penetrates an egg. It's also called conception. At this moment, the genetic makeup is complete, including the sex of the baby.

MedicineNet, Inc. is “owned and operated by WebMD.” Their “Pregnancy Week by Week (First, Second, and Third Trimester),” medically reviewed on 5/12/2021, contains the following quotes. I added my yellow highlights to the quotes.

First Trimester (week 1 - week 12)
At 4 to 5 weeks:
    Your baby's brain and spinal cord have begun to form.
    The heart begins to form.
At 8 weeks:
     All major organs and external body structures have begun to form.
    Your baby's heart beats with a regular rhythm.

The lengthy article continues to describe the further development and growth of the unborn “baby.” The truth that human life (as a developing baby) begins at conception is proved by science.

Declaration of Independence

In the July 4, 1776, Declaration of Independence, it is written:

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

“Self-evident” is that which is obvious. For example, it is self-evident that one plus one equals two. The Declaration of Independence states that the Creator (God) created all men (humankind) equal, with inherent (unalienable or intrinsic) rights that include the right to life.

Let's ask Mr. Webster (Merriam-Webster) for the definition of “man,” the plural of which is “men.” I highlighted the words in yellow.

Definition of man: 1a(1): an individual human

Mr. Webster has defined a child or baby as a “young person.” He has defined a “person” as a “human.”

The Declaration of Independence states the self-evident truth that the baby—who became human at the moment of conception—has the right to life as endowed by the Creator (God).

Affirmative, Won.

If the unborn child in the womb is human, and if the unborn child has the right to life, then the unborn child must be allowed to live and not have his or her right to life violated by an induced abortion.

Mr. Webster (Merriam-Webster) states (with my highlighting added):

Definition of murder: 1: the crime of unlawfully killing a person, especially with malice aforethought

Definition of unlawful: 1: not lawful: illegal 2: not morally right or conventional

The unborn child in the womb is human, as I have verified. The unborn child has the right to life, as I have verified. The unborn child must be allowed to continue to live.

That right to life should not be violated by an induced abortion. An induced abortion is murder. This is why I call “induced abortion” the murder of an unborn child. Induced abortion is not morally right.

The exception would be to save the mother's physical life, if both the unborn child and the mother would die, if the child were to be born. If the child would live after birth, but the mother would die while in the process of giving birth, then the choice would be based on the decision of the mother only in that situation. That situation is rare. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Maternal Mortality” (last reviewed 4/26/2022), states (with my underlining added), “The death of a woman during pregnancy, at delivery, or soon after delivery is a tragedy for her family and for society as a whole. Sadly, about 700 women die each year in the United States as a result of pregnancy or delivery complications.” The CDC does not state the number of women who die at delivery.

Potential Rebuttals Answered

My verified affirmative victory for the unborn children will generate various rebuttals. I will respond to nine theoretical rebuttals.

Rebuttal 1: “It is my body and my choice. You do not have the right to determine my choice.” Pregnancy involves two bodies, the mother and the separate human life in her womb. The unborn child cannot yet state his or her choice to live or die. The unborn child in the womb has the right to life, which overrules the mother's desire to kill her child. My prior reasoning proves this fact.

Rebuttal 2: “You have a right to your opinion. Don't force your opinion on me.” The topic is not subject to opinion. It is based on fact. The unborn child has the right to life. My prior reasoning proves this fact. You must acknowledge the fact.

Rebuttal 3: “The unborn child is like an acorn. The acorn is not an oak tree yet.” The acorn will become an oak tree, if it is allowed to continue to grow. It is an oak tree “in the womb” of development. The unborn child will become a born child, who will develop further into an adult. If the “fetus” is not human, give it time to grow and to be born. You will see what it becomes. Your argument from analogy is invalid and not sound.

Rebuttal 4: “I made a mistake by getting pregnant. I want to correct that mistake.” Everyone makes mistakes. No one, except the Good Lord, is or was perfect. Do you wish to make another mistake by murdering the unborn child in your womb?

Rebuttal 5: “I don't care for or want this baby!” Your lack of love or care for the unborn child in your womb does not override that child's right to life. As a secondary thought, the father of your unborn child may be unknown or known to you. You and he may or may not be communicating. You and he may have a good or bad relationship. I don't know. Your moment of passion created your unborn child. If that moment of passion was a mistake, then please don't commit another mistake by murdering your unborn child! After your child is born, I think that you will love him or her! (See “Rebuttal 6” for organizations that can help you!)

Rebuttal 6: “Having this baby will cause me emotional, relational, societal, economic, and/or spiritual harm.” Is the right to life contingent on the absence of harm? Many organizations (i.e., churches, pro-life centers, etc.) are available to help you, if you reach out to them. What if you develop a health condition that requires others to care for you? Would you want that care, or would you rather be put to death to prevent the “harm” that your caregivers would face? Please do not cause yourself further harm by living with the memory that you killed your unborn child just to avoid various types of potential “harm” to yourself. Please seek help! Many others and I are ready to help you!

Rebuttal 7: “Various polls indicate that America is divided on the abortion issue. We should defer to the opinions of others and not be dogmatic.” Really? When is absolute morality (i.e., the right to life) determined by opinion polls? What if opinion polls indicated that some people consider theft, the abuse of others, or even murder to be good? Would you defer to their invalid views? Morality is not determined by the majority (or even by opinion polls). Many in this nation have immoral views that accept the murder of unborn children. What if many accept the murder of a different ethnic group (euphemistically called ethnic cleansing)? Would you defer your opinion to them? I didn't think so.

Rebuttal 8: “How can you be for the death penalty and against 'pro-choice'?” This is a false analogy. The death penalty punishes a murderer for his crime(s). I can prove my argument for the death penalty. What crime did the innocent child in the womb commit? Affirm your position that it is morally correct to murder the unborn child if you can.

Rebuttal 9: “What about pregnancy due to rape or incest? Isn't abortion a valid choice then?” We agree to the fact that rape and incest are immoral. Pregnancy by rape or incest is rare, perhaps one percent or less, but it happens, sadly. (I have researched the statistics.) If possible, the rape victim with caring support could receive immediate medical treatment (the removal of the male semen) before conception. If conception occurs, the child conceived in violence is innocent. If the unborn child could speak, he or she might say, “It doesn't matter how I began. What matters is who I will become." The question of pregnancy by rape or incest does not refute the fact that the murder of the unborn child is immoral. In urgent situations, I have violated speed limit laws (with emergency flashers on) to assist family members who were experiencing a significant health crisis. My violation of the speed limit (the lesser evil) was necessary to help my loved one (the greater good). God will judge, not me, the woman who allows her unborn child, conceived by rape or incest, to be murdered to help her overcome whatever real trials that she would face, if she had given birth to her child. God is a just judge. I defer to his judgment.

Of course, other rebuttals can be offered. I can overcome any other theoretical rebuttals. My reasoning, which I have stated, is both sound and valid.

Affirmative from Scripture

From the above, please notice that I won the pro-life argument without the use of inspired scripture. Using the Bible to affirm the pro-life argument is valid. First, however, the affirmative must prove that the Bible is the inspired and infallible word of God. I can and have proved that affirmative. By God's grace, I have led atheists to at least theism or even to salvation. I had to start by proving the existence of God and then prove that the Bible is God's solely inspired word.

My affirmative from scripture assumes that those who read this section believe and know that God exists and that the Bible is his inspired word. This section is to help believers who accept in error the so-called “right to choose” arguments. If you claim to be a Christian, you cannot accept that the murder of an unborn child is scriptural. I will cite scripture references and include my comments.

So God created mankind in his own image; in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it.” (Genesis 1:27,28, NIV)

Mankind, which includes the unborn, is created in God's image. The “divine spark,” soul, or new human is created at conception. Male and female are fruitful when they increase the number of humans by the procreation of their child together. The Creator grants his human creation the right to life, because we are made in his image. This truth is self-evident.

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; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. (Psalms 139:13-14, NIV)

The psalmist David addressed God. By inspiration, David stated that he (not an inhuman mass of tissue) was in his mother's womb. He used “me,” a reference to himself in his mother's womb.

The word of the LORD came to me, saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” (Jeremiah 1:4-5, NIV)

The inspired prophet Jeremiah stated the Lord's word to him. God appointed Jeremiah to be a prophet, before forming Jeremiah in his mother's womb. The physical act of procreation is when God forms the child in the womb. God, who is all-knowing, knows each person before conception. It is a sobering thought to realize that God has always known me, even before I was conceived! God knew my past, knows me currently, and knows my future. He knows my everlasting home!

Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear. But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife, Elizabeth, will bear you a son, and you are to call him John. He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He is never to take wine or other fermented drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even before he is born. He will bring back many of the people of Israel to the Lord their God. And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the parents to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous—to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” (Luke 1:11-17, NIV)

The inspired Luke records the angel Gabriel's statement to Zechariah, the father of John the Immersionist. I highlighted “he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even before he is born.” Reasoning from the specific to the general concludes that each innocent and unborn child is filled with the Holy Spirit, while in the mother's womb. Sadly, once a child reaches the age of accountability and freely chooses to sin, the Holy Spirit cannot be present until salvation restores the presence of the Holy Spirit. The purpose of this article prohibits me from unpacking further the depth of this theological thought.

I hope that my argument from scripture helps change the minds of believers who still accept in error the murder of unborn children. One cannot be a true believer without affirming the right to life.

For Further Pro-Life Reading

This nine-page manuscript cannot encompass every aspect of the conflicting worldviews about the murder of unborn children in their mothers' wombs. In my research, I found and read sections of several websites, both for the murder of unborn children and for the right to life of those children. I will reference two of those websites.

Abortion Facts contains twenty scholarly articles about abortion and provides support for pregnant women who seek alternatives to abortion. The website is pro-life. The accreditation is:

Selected content reprinted with permission from John C. Willke, M.D., Barbara H. Willke, R.N., John Jefferson Davis, Ph.D., David C. Reardon, Ph.D., Abort73.com, Eternal Perspective Ministries, Abolish Human Abortion, Life Issues Institute, BlackGenocide.org, Heritage House '76, Inc., & The Center for Bio-Ethical Reform.

Abortion Procedures is “a project of Live Action.” The website is pro-life and has videos with comments by OB/GYN medical doctors who used to perform abortions. The videos and comments are about first trimester abortion pills, first trimester suction D&C abortion, second trimester D&E abortion, and third trimester induction. Anyone who affirms the right to murder unborn babies should watch the gruesome videos.

Conclusion

Conflicting worldviews are nothing new. Unbiblical worldviews love the world (i.e., the secular, temporal, natural, and evil). The biblical worldview loves the Lord. The world hates the biblical worldview.

Jesus, the Christ, spoke the following words to his disciples on the eve before his crucifixion:

If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. (John 15:18-19, NIV)

I suggest that you read the Gospel of John, chapters 13:1-17:26. You will understand John 15:18-19 in that context.

The inspired apostle John wrote:

Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world – the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life – comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever. (1 John 2:15-17, NIV)

The so-called pro-choice versus pro-life debate is one of many examples of worldviews in conflict. True Christians and true churches need to love the pregnant mother and her baby. They should not look down on or shame the mother, if she is unwed. They need to love the mother by providing her with a loving and supportive ministry. Many churches and pro-life organizations are ready to help.

Those of the world who affirm “the right” to murder unborn children are wrong, even if the majority of the world agrees with them. Morality is not subjective and not determined by opinion polls. Morality is absolute, since it comes from the Divine Lawgiver, God, who never changes. The world vandalizes pro-life clinics, threatens pro-life individuals, and spews irrational diatribe. The world enjoys hearing its thunder. The world tries to force its ungodly worldview by intimidation, not by logic.

We who are not of this world follow the biblical worldview. The Gospel of Matthew, in chapter ten, records Jesus' commissioning of his twelve disciples. In verse 28, Jesus states:

Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. (Matthew 10:28, NIV)

The biblical worldview does not fear the world. We have reverential fear of God, who has saved us from everlasting destruction by our faith (based on evidence) in response to his Son, who was conceived and born of a virgin, according to God's eternal scheme of redemption. I can prove these facts of faith. I have done it many times.

In the Gospel of John 13:1-17:26, which I have referenced, Jesus stated to his disciples:

Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. And where I go, you know, and the way you know. (John 14:1-4, NKJV)

Heaven is a prepared place for a prepared people. I stand with many who are prepared. Our faith is guided by the biblical worldview. We stand with God, who is the majority, against the ungodly world and its evil worldviews. If you have not joined us, will you join us? The invitation is open. You have the free will to choose. Choose wisely.

Biblical Worldview: 1st Century, 21st Century, and 6-24-2022 Pro-Life Victory (published 6-26-2022; article #336)

Introduction

Today is for deep and serious thought. I stated the following in the final paragraph of my article, Biblical Worldview: Book Recommendation by Barna: “American Worldview Inventory 2021-22: The Annual Report on the State of Worldview in the United States” (published 6-7-2022; article #332):

I still have several rough draft articles on “spin the bottle.” I may finish and publish the various “spins,” but they will be within the context of this overarching article that I have published.

This entry will encapsulate those several rough drafts into one article. The dizziness caused by the spinning worldviews must stop!

On Friday, 6/24/2022, the USSA (Ununited Socialist States of America) Supreme Court agreed in a “landmark decision” with God's Supreme Court. This article's “Twenty-First Century Worldview” section below will include more details and commentary. I may write a separate article on the profound topic.

This article, however, focuses on the first-century worldview, the twenty-first-century worldview, and the biblical worldview. The conclusion will encourage the world, with emphasis on this once-great nation, to return in repentance to the biblical worldview.

First Century Worldview: The Inspired Apostle Paul

The Bible is the inspired word of God. Each writer wrote by God's direction and guidance. I can prove and have proved this fact that informs my faith.

The inspired apostle Paul's letter to the Christians in Rome contains a wealth of divine wisdom. Paul's inspired words, which follow, include my highlighting.

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.

Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.

For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error, which was due.

And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them. (Romans 1:18-32, NKJV)

The apostle Paul, who lived and wrote by inspiration in the first century, encapsulated the first-century worldview, which was largely unbiblical. A modern study of first-century culture agrees with the apostle Paul.

In the first century, God gave over the majority who followed unbiblical worldviews to a debased mind. They were without excuse. The knowledge of God and his righteousness was evident. They ignored the evidence and lived ungodly lives.

I do not need to comment further on the eloquence of the apostle Paul's inspired letter to the Romans. Remember that the first century marked the beginning of Christ's church, after Jesus, the Christ, the incarnate Word, had become flesh, lived as the God-man, been crucified, rose again, and ascended back to heaven. The historical record is faith based on fact.

Twenty-First Century Worldview

The unbiblical worldview has not changed much in over 2,000 years. History records moments of spiritual revival, such as the Protestant Reformation and so forth. The inspired apostle Matthew cited Jesus' timeless words:

Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. (Matthew 7:13-14, NKJV)

For centuries, the majority have continued down the broad way to destruction. Few have walked the “straight and narrow” way. The right way is not determined by the majority (such as in opinion polls). The right way has been established by God.

The division in the USSA is based on worldviews in conflict. The broad way is wide and filled with unbiblical worldviews. I will cite only three examples (which were in my rough draft articles). Other examples abound.

“Gun Control”

I have written before that “gun control” is when a moral individual aims and fires his or her weapon for target shooting, hunting, or defense of life. Immoral individuals, not the gun, cause the ongoing abundance of crimes, murders, and mass shootings. Legislation cannot regulate morality. God gives us the right to defend ourselves and others. By the way, The Constitution of the United States agrees with that God-given right under Amendment II (1791):

A well-regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.

On Thursday, 6/23/2022, the USSA Supreme Court agreed with God's Supreme Court. The SCOTUSBlog has the article by Amy Howe, “In 6-3 ruling, court strikes down New York’s concealed-carry law,” SCOTUSblog (Jun. 23, 2022, 10:36 AM). Justices Thomas, Roberts, Alito, Gorsuch, Kavanaugh, and Barrett affirmed. Breyer, Sotomayor, and Kagan dissented. Supreme Court of the United States, Opinions has the link for the PDF download. I am sure that you have heard about the details. I will not comment further.

Also on 6/23/2022, the USSA Senate passed a “gun control” bill. Fox News reported, "Senate clears path for final passage of bipartisan gun bill: Senate likely to vote on final passage for bipartisan gun bill Thursday or Friday.” Fox News, by Tyler Olson, 6/23/2022.

The bill passed the House, and the first president of the USSA signed the bill into law on Saturday, 6/25/2022. Source: “Biden signs gun control bill in wake of deadly mass shootings: 'Lives will be saved.' Biden says gun control law doesn't accomplish all he hoped for, but bill was compromise.” Fox News, by Caitlin McFall, 6/25/2022.

This new “gun control” law will give “Monopoly money” to states to create programs to keep firearms away from people who endanger themselves or others (i.e., red flag laws). Also, it will “enhance background checks” for gun buyers under age 21, further penalize criminals who use guns, and give “Monopoly money” for health and mental health programs. Additionally, the law will close a so-called "boyfriend loophole."

The “gun control” debate in this once-great nation is an example of worldviews in conflict. If the majority would simply follow the biblical worldview, then “morality control” would be enforced by each individual's free choice to do right. Laws on the purchase and use of firearms that do not violate Second Amendment rights make sense. Where, however, are the voices that address the underlying moral decay that has been leading to all the shootings? Why do many cities (e.g., Chicago, etc.) that have “tough gun control laws” have the most shootings?

The apostle Paul stated that the first-century worldview included those who engaged in wickedness and murder. The biblical worldview would stop or greatly reduce “gun violence,” wickedness, and murder. I rest my case.

“LGBTQ Pride Month”

June is lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) “pride” month. June is also Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month. Source: List of National Days, Commemorative Months. The Library of Congress lists June as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Pride Month.

Even the supposedly conservative Fox News has affirmed “Pride Month” since last year. Sources: “Fox Celebrates Pride Month by Adding a 'Little Bit of Color,'” by Steve Gidlow, 6/9/2021. “Republicans Blast Fox News for Promoting LGBTQ Pride Month,” by Andrew Stanton, 6/14/2022. “Fox News Promotes Gender Ideology with Propaganda-Filled ‘Trans’ Family Story,” The Daily Citizen, by Glenn T. Stanton, 6/10/2022.

The small town of Rutledge, Tennessee, even made the news earlier this month. The written article is at WSMV-TV, Nashville, Tennessee, "Pastor files lawsuit against Rutledge church that accused her of ‘practicing homosexuality’ (wsmv.com),” by Camruinn Morgan-Rumsey, published 6/9/2022; updated 6/8/2022. The video is at WVLT-TV, Knoxville, Tennessee, “Pastor files lawsuit against Rutledge church that accused her of ‘practicing homosexuality’ (wvlt.tv)," updated 6/9/2022. I wonder how a female “pastor” can be the husband of one wife? I, however, am digressing into a topic about church organization and leadership, into which I will not delve deeper in this article.

The inspired apostle Paul stated that the first-century worldview included women, who “exchanged the natural use for what is against nature,” and men, who left “the natural use of the woman” and “burned in their lust for one another.” The majority view, even in churches, that contradicts God's morality on this subject is wrong. The biblical worldview is right. I rest my case.

Murder of Unborn Children (Euphemistically Called Abortion)

The rough draft that became this section started on 5/11/2022. On that day, I read Phil Robertson's Substack article, "My Answer to the Most Crucial Question in the Abortion Debate: How we answer this question determines whether or not abortion is moral,” Substack, by Phil Robertson, 5/11/2022. Brother Phil wrote a fine piece. I suggest that you pause to read his article. I affirm every word that he wrote.

Evil individuals have been threatening Supreme Court justices and pro-life groups, even vandalizing the buildings of pro-life groups. Source: CNSNews, “Report: ‘Open Season’ on Pro-Life Groups, 40+ Attacks Since Alito Opinion Leaked on May 3,” by Stephanie Samsel, 6/21/2022.

On Friday, 6/24/2022, the “Supreme Court” decided in agreement with God's Supreme Court! I pause to bend my knee in a prayer of thanksgiving to the Good Lord!

Media sources are filled with information and commentaries. The SCOTUSBlog reports, “Supreme Court overturns constitutional right to abortion.” SCOTUSblog, by Amy Howe, 6/24/2022.

The total number of war fatalities—from the American Revolutionary War (1775-1783) to the ongoing “War on Terror”—is approximately 1,304,702. Source: Statista, Number of military fatalities in all major wars involving the United States from 1775 to 2022. We must honor those brave soldiers who fought and died for freedom!

At age 12, I was still a boy on January 22, 1973, when that USSA “Supreme Court” issued its opinion on “abortion rights” in Roe v. Wade. The estimated number of unborn children who were murdered (i.e., aborted) from 1973 to January 2022 is 63,459,781. Source: Christian Life Resources, “U.S. Abortion Statistics By Year (1973-Current): THE CONSEQUENCES OF ROE V. WADE: TOTAL ABORTIONS SINCE 1973: 63,459,781,” Updated January 2022.

On 6/24/2022, I read the following article from a known sister in Christ. (The links are in her article.)

I am that poor woman of whom the pro-abortion people talk about.

I lost my job.

I lost my car.

I lost my apartment.

I lost many friends and family for a long time.

I had my power turned off in the middle of winter.

I had to go on public assistance and food stamps.

I was sent to collections and sued for my balance from the doctor’s office and dropped as a patient.

I was forced to go to an abortion clinic by the bio. father, and I walked away and went to a crisis pregnancy center across the street called InvestingHope (HOPE Resource Center).

I am a women who has been blessed by God beyond measure because I gave life to my child, [child’s name removed, to protect privacy].

Abortion as a solution is a lie.

For those who purposefully use it as their form of birth control, may God have mercy on you.

Roe v. Wade has been overruled, and we praise the Lord!!

#prolife #crisispregnancycenter #crisispregnancy

I look forward to hugging the neck of my known sister in Christ! Her written words brought a tear to my eye.

The apostle Paul stated that the first-century worldview included those who were unloving and murderers. “Abortion” is a euphemism for the murder of an unborn child. The only exception would be to save the physical life of the mother. That is a rare exception. Media sources for many days will include so-called arguments for the murder of unborn children. They will argue that the mother's so-called “right to choose” overrides the right to life of her unborn child. They will argue that the mother's social, economic, and emotional well-being negate the right to life of her unborn child. Those arguments affirm a worldview that does not value the sanctity of life, and that is not the biblical worldview. I rest my case.

The Biblical Worldview

Luke, the inspired author and companion of the apostle Paul, wrote Paul's statement of his conversion. It reads in part as follows:

“While thus occupied, as I journeyed to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests, at midday, O king, along the road I saw a light from heaven, brighter than the sun, shining around me and those who journeyed with me. And when we all had fallen to the ground, I heard a voice speaking to me and saying in the Hebrew language, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.’ So I said, ‘Who are You, Lord?’ And He said, ‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But rise and stand on your feet; for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to make you a minister and a witness both of the things which you have seen and of the things which I will yet reveal to you. I will deliver you from the Jewish people, as well as from the Gentiles, to whom I now send you, to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.’ (Acts 26:12-18, NKJV)

The apostle Paul changed his worldview from unbiblical to biblical. His eyes were opened. He saw the Light. He was saved. The apostle Paul dedicated the remainder of his life to bringing the unsaved from their dark worldviews to the saving light of the biblical worldview.

Conclusion

My 6/7/2022 article referenced the study by Dr. George Barna. The study is unsettling. It verifies that many, even those who call themselves Christians, are not living according to the biblical worldview. Those who are not Christians are certainly following unbiblical worldviews.

The examples that I have cited in this article (“gun control,” LGBTQ “pride,” and the murder of unborn children) are only three of many, indicating that this once-great nation does not, in majority, hold the biblical worldview.

My written prayer, now and ongoing, is that this once-great nation will see the Light, repent, and be restored to the biblical worldview before it is too late. At least the majority in the USSA “Supreme Court” has the biblical worldview, as demonstrated on 6/24/2022! Praise God for that victory!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, “FAVORITE” SISTER-IN-LAW! (published 6-21-2022; article #335)

Introduction

Well, at 4:11 PM, as I began to type, the morning coolness was gone. The thermometer is punching 92 degrees Fahrenheit and getting hotter—so much for wearing that jacket!

The “My Other Online Platforms” section includes a link to Appalachian Irishman - Podcasts. There are two episodes so far. My first episode was on 5/26/2022, when I recommended Data Tech 11, my computer guy. I wanted to let local readers know about his excellent prices and outstanding customer service!

Happy Birthday, “Favorite” Sister-in-Law!

Today, my second episode was for my “favorite” sister-in-law. Today is her “I ain't saying the year” birthday! I was “at the beach” while making the recording.

The episode is “Happy Birthday to 'Favorite' Sister-in-Law! (published 6-21-2022; episode 2; 1 min. 38 seconds).” I'm just glad that she did get up early enough to milk the cows this morning!

Conclusion

I have to have some fun! Mrs. Appalachian Irishman and her family have known—and have been putting up with—my sense of humor for a few decades. “Favorite” sister-in-law was the target of my humor this morning on my YouTube channel and now in this article!

Hey, “favorite” sister-in-law, I wouldn't “devil” you with my humor if I didn't love you. I love all my in-laws. I reckon that they tolerate me well enough!

WAS SUNDAY “JUNETEENTH,” OR FATHER'S DAY, OR BOTH? (published 6-21-2022, article #334)

Introduction

Well, howdy, dear readers! On 6/21/2022, Tuesday, about 9:26 AM, as I began to type, the weather was a cool 67F, with crisp and clear sky. I may need to wear a jacket! I had become accustomed to last week's temperatures in the mid 90's. By the way, today is “favorite” sister-in-law's birthday. Earlier this morning, when Mrs. Appalachian Irishman had called her, I chimed in, by asking her if she had milked the cows yet! I think that she figured out my humor.

What day was Sunday? Was it “Juneteenth,” or Father's Day, or both? I was confused!

“Juneteenth”

Image by Wynn Pointaux from Pixabay

I have known and continue to respect the historical origin of “Juneteenth.” History.com has a good article. See “What Is Juneteenth? Juneteenth commemorates the effective end of slavery in the United States,” by Elizabeth Nix, updated 6/17/2022, original 6/19/2015.

General Lee had surrendered to General Grant, on 4/9/1865. News then, however, did not span the globe, or the nation, in seconds – as it does now.

The article states that “Juneteenth” is a shortened word for “June Nineteenth.” June 19th, 1865 was the date, in Galveston, when federal troops took control of the state of Texas. That action secured the freedom of the enslaved people in Texas.

While I honor the history behind the term “Juneteenth,” the saying of the word is awkward to my ear and confusing to my mind. June has the 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th, and 19th. I ask, in jest, “Which day is Juneteenth? It has to be one of seven days! I wish that the historical day could be called “the Nineteenth of June” – not “Juneteenth.” We call the Fourth of July, “the Fourth of July” – not “Julyth.”

The “Fourth of July” (1776) and the “Nineteenth of June” (1865), however, are both important dates – to remember independence declarations – from Britain and from slavery in Texas. Ireland declared independence from Britain, on 1/21/1919. Ireland became independent, on 4/18/1949. See "Republic to Republic: Ireland’s international sovereignty, 1919-1949: An exhibition of documents from the collections of UCD Archives,” by University College Dublin Archives, on Google Arts & Culture.

I hope that my national readers enjoyed a good “Nineteenth of June,” on Sunday! Yes, I will start the national trend, by this article! Start saying the “Nineteenth of June!” It sounds better to the ear!

Father's Day

Image by Hannah Edgman from Pixabay

Last year, I “talked with” my Dad (Earl Ferrell, 9/17/1927 - 1/25/2008), on Father's Day, in my article, “DAD, DO YOU REMEMBER THE 2003 WATER WELL CONVENTION? (Happy Father's Day, (6/20/2021).” I wrote my “About Me” section on 3/6/2006, when I published my first article (which still gets views almost daily). That section contains:

Raised in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, of hearty Irish stock, under the godly influence of my mother and the independent, fiery temperament of my father.

Dad certainly could get his dander up! So can I! Dad could and I still can blow off steam then relax, after “getting it out of our system.” Hey, Dad, I'll see you at Home – eventually.

On Sunday, Mrs. Appalachian Irishman and I visited her folks. Her Dad was there. We had a good time of family togetherness. I wished my father-in-law a “Happy Father-in-Law's Day!” I've done that for a few years. He still seems to like to hear me say that.

I enjoy conversing with my father-in-law. We talked about farm work in the hot weather. He talked about cutting wheat and oats, when he was a boy and a young man, on his parents' farm. He talked about thrashing wheat. Mrs. Appalachian Irishman, her sisters, her cousin, and our niece heard the conversation.

I wish that Mrs. Appalachian Irishman and her sisters would start a website journal, to record their family heritage articles and photographs. I have offered to help. Before my article today, my “Topic Sections” showed that I had 101 listings under “family” and 74 under “heritage.” I hope that a next generation of the Fearghail clan will continue my website, after I go Home. Family heritage is important and needs to be remembered in written and/or recorded form. I wish that I had video recorded Dad talking. He went Home, on 1/25/2008. I didn't start this website journal and commentary, until 3/6/2006. I didn't have enough time to “learn the ropes,” to do video recordings. I know how to do that now.

Before leaving, my father-in-law asked if it was Father's Day or “Juneteenth.” My response was a humorous point of confusion – on “Juneteenth.” I stated that I knew the day was Father's Day. I speculated, in jest, that “Juneteenth” could have been either the 13th to the 18th or that day (19th). I wasn't sure! I think that he enjoyed my humor.

Conclusion

Yesterday morning, while preparing this article, I came across the 6/16/2022 Newsweek article, “Black Boys Need Fathers. This Juneteenth and Father's Day, Let's Commit to Them,” by Patrice Onwuka, Director of the Center for Economic Opportunity, at Independent Women’s Forum; 6/16/22 at 1:28 PM EDT. Further research found Independent Women's Forum: Center for Economic Opportunity. Patrice Onwuka is the Director. I read that 6/16/2022 article. Patrice Onwuka wrote a very good article.

Mrs. Appalachian Irishman and I are both glad that we were raised by godly parents. She still has her father with her. Children do better – morally and financially – when they are raised by godly parents. All the “societal studies” that affirm this fact are mere repetitions of the inspired record.

I suggest that you read the God-inspired Old Testament book of Joshua, chapters 23 and 24, to understand the context of Joshua 24:15. Joshua, the leader of the nation of Israel, was near death. Chapter 24, verse 15, includes his affirmation:

But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.

Men who sire children need to become fathers, who serve the Lord and who lead their family (wife and children) in the service of the Lord. Families will be restored. Society will be restored. This once great nation will re-focus correctly on the biblical worldview. I pray to the Good Lord, now, that men will be godly fathers, that mothers will be godly mothers, that their children will be raised to honor them and God, and that, consequentially, this once great nation will be restored to godliness.

This is my written sermon for the day. Tune in again. I may record a podcast sermon, one of these days!

LANCE CUNNINGHAM FORD: RECOMMENDED (published 6-15-2022; article #333)

Introduction

Howdy, to my national and international readers! I hope each of you is doing well, by God's grace! That is my written prayer. Here in these parts, our outside temperature gauge is showing about 95F, on a mostly sunny day. It's a scorcher. I'm glad that I am not loading baled hay in a wagon today! I did that enough, in my teenage years.

In my June 7, 2022, article, I had stated, in the introduction:

As a quick aside, our car hunt saga (mentioned in the introduction to my Monday, May 30, 2022, article) is over! On the anniversary of D-Day, we completed the purchase of our new, 'ol car. Our “long-suffering” '08 Honda Civic was replaced by a new, to us, car. In a few days, I plan to write and publish an article, on the details.

I am writing and publishing the article on the details today.

Temporal life includes moments in time that make lasting memories. Some memories are not pleasant, such as the passing of a loved one. Some are pleasant, such as graduation, marriage, and so forth.

How does car buying rate as a moment in time? It can vary. I have unpleasant and pleasant car buying memories.

Mrs. Appalachian Irishman and I enjoyed a car purchase experience that will be a lasting and pleasant memory! This article is to recommend Lance Cunningham Ford (865-317-6211) – for car purchases and for service after the sale!

The gentleman, whose name that I mention, in my following remarks, has given me approval to mention him by name. I am honored to do so!

Purchase Experience

I had searched Lance Cunningham Ford's website, among several other websites, for pre-owned sedans. I had seen the 2012 Nissan Sentra SR on Lance Cunningham Ford's website.

As an aside, Mrs. Appalachian Irishman and I plan, Lord willing, to pay in full a substantial principal balance later this year. We, therefore, had to limit our funds, to purchase a pre-owned sedan, to fit our plan. We hope, in the Lord, to be debt free, later this year.

On Tuesday, 5/31/2022, I called Lance Cunningham Ford and reached Travis Thomas, salesman. We conversed well. Travis emailed me his live video of the 2012 Nissan Sentra! His “going the extra mile” effort impressed me! The car would be ready for our viewing, after some detail work was done.

On Friday, 6/3/2022, Travis called, as he promised, to state that the detail work was done. I had planned to call him the next day, to set the time that Mrs. Appalachian Irishman and I would arrive to inspect the car.

On the morning of 6/4/2022, I had delayed my call to Travis, as I explored a few other online automobile search options. Travis called me – which I appreciated. He was not, and never was, “pushy.” His call was just to touch base on the plans, since I'd not called him yet.

On that Saturday afternoon, my wife and I enjoyed about three hours, at Lance Cunningham Ford! We met Travis Thomas and an outstanding Sales Manager. The Sales Manager and I are of the same generation. Travis is a younger man. Our rapport with those men was excellent! The Sales Manager and I, being in the same generation, talked as brothers, as if we had known each other for years. Travis and I talked as good friends. They interacted with us professionally and personally.

After the test drive, Mrs. Appalachian Irishman gave her “thumbs up,” for the purchase. (That was important, since she will drive the car mostly!) The price negotiation started. I was prepared. I had a printout with my typed notes on it. (Hey, Sales Manager, thanks for telling me how impressed you were, with my detailed notes!) The negotiation was a mutual agreement. There was no “used car salesman” type games. It was straight forward and fair, with several points of courtesy and humor interjected! The “price was right.” We “made a deal.” Since we had driven to Lance Cunningham Ford in my 2006 Nissan Frontier, we made a down payment, on the 2012 Nissan Sentra.

Monday, June 6, 2022, was the anniversary of D-Day. Mrs. Appalachian Irishman and I drove our “long-suffering” 2008 Honda Civic to Lance Cunningham Ford. (Wouldn't you know that the air conditioner cooled all the way there! The A/C hadn't been doing that!) We finalized the trade-in of our Civic for the Sentra. That was easy. All the routine paperwork signing did not take that long. We fully understood all the details. There were no “hidden surprises.”

Photograph by Travis Thomas, using Mrs. Appalachian Irishman's “smart” phone.

Travis Thomas took the above photograph, using Mrs. Appalachian Irishman's “smart” phone. Our “long-suffering” 2008 Honda Civic is on the left. Our 2012 Nissan Sentra SR is on the right. Who are those folks in the middle? Wait! I know! They are Mr. and Mrs. Appalachian Irishman – very satisfied Lance Cunningham Ford customers!

Service After the Sale Experience

During our 6/4/2022 inspection of our 2012 Nissan Sentra, I had noticed that the tires needed to be rotated, from back to front. On Friday, 6/10/2022, I drove our newly purchased sedan back to Lance Cunningham Ford, for a scheduled tire rotation, balance, and alignment check.

The Christian young man, in the service department, provided professional and personal service. I got to know him, when we had opportunities to converse. He knows that God will be the unseen presence in his home. After the service was completed, as I prepared to leave, I asked him, “Who will be the unseen presence in your home?” He replied, instantly, “God will be.” The wedding date for his fiancée and he was upcoming, in a few more days. This young man and his bride will include God, as the guiding source, in their home!

By the way, the cost, for the rotation, balance, and alignment, was very reasonable. We may take up the young man's suggestion, to select Lance Cunningham Ford, for routine oil changes and service! Who knows? I may come with her! I hope to see the young man again.

Conclusion

I hope to keep in touch with Travis Thomas, the Service Manager, and the Christian young man. They are each welcome to come by to visit or to hike House Mountain with me!

Mrs. Appalachian Irishman and I met several other employees of Lance Cunningham Ford. On 6/10/2022, I met and conversed with more employees. Without mentioning them by name, the two receptionists are fine and Christian ladies. The “too tall” young lady, who provided the “sign here and here” sales transaction service, on 6/6/2022, appreciated my sense of humor! The “sign here and here” part was professional and personal. Mrs. Appalachian Irishman, on 6/4/2022, became reacquainted with a young man, who had been one of her students. He is a salesman and appears to be “turning right and going straight” in life! I hope that they keep in touch! We met other staff and sales representatives. To a person, each one was congenial and friendly.

I believe that Lance Cunningham Ford, as led by their General Manager, knows how to build a team of professional and personable employees. I do not care for “car commercials,” on radio or TV, as they are often unrefined and insulting. The Lance Cunningham Ford commercials have never been crass. They have class. The jingle runs through my mind, at times, with a lasting memory of a pleasant moment in time!

Travis Thomas and Lance Cunningham Ford both have my written permission, here and now, to share this article -- as published, without redaction, on any media format -- to benefit him and that fine company. I want to freely share our memory of our purchase and service after the sale experiences.