- We deny that a proper understanding of the love and justice of God warrants the hope of universal salvation.
- We affirm that the life of a human being begins at conception (fertilization) and continues until biological death; thus, abortion (except where the continuance of the pregnancy imminently threatens the mother’s physical life), infanticide, suicide, and euthanasia are forms of murder.
- We deny that killing in self-defense, in state-administered capital punishment, or in wars justly fought, is necessarily a violation of the sanctity of human life.
- We affirm that in the marriage pattern ordained by God, the husband as head is the loving servant-leader of his wife, and the wife as helper in submissive companionship is a full partner with her husband.
- We deny that homosexual practice can ever please God.
- We deny the kingdom of God can be established by the power of civil governments.
- We affirm that God, who is just and loving, has a special concern for the poor in their plight.
- We affirm that mankind’s dominion over the earth imposes a responsibility to protect and tend its life and resources.
The Bible and Current Issues
The International Council on Biblical Inerrancy held its final summit of scholars late last year. At the meeting, some 300 inerrantists produced the “Chicago Statement on Application of Scripture.” Following are excerpts from the statement.