The Bible Difficulties and Answers Podcast

Exodus 21:22-23 – Unpacking The True Value of Unborn Lives

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Welcome to episode 150 of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast. Join host Lance Smith as he dives into the complexities of Exodus 21:22-23, questioning whether unborn children are valued less than adults in Biblical texts. With a focus on the New Living Translation, this episode explores ancient laws, Hebrew words, and the broader Biblical context to unravel the truth.

Smith examines how translations like the New Revised Standard Version and interpretations by scholars such as John MacArthur and Russell Fuller contribute to the ongoing debate about the personhood and value of unborn children. From fines for premature births to the concept of 'life for life,' listeners are encouraged to explore whether these ancient texts provide a pro-life affirmation or an unintended loophole.

Through a theological lens, uncover the layers behind what fines truly represented in ancient times and how justice was served to protect both mother and child. Tune in to reflect on these ancient judicial practices and how they resonate with today's perspectives on the right to life.

References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following:

The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website

The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page

Email Address: [email protected] 

  1. Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI 
  2. MacArthur, John. The MacArthur Study Bible. Thomas Nelson, 1997. Available at: https://a.co/d/0aWQrOv 
  3. Fuller, Russell T. “Exodus 21:22-23: The Miscarriage Interpretation and the Personhood of the Fetus.” Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society 37, no. 2 (1994): 169–184. https://etsjets.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/files_JETS-PDFs_37_37-2_JETS_37-2_169-184_Fuller.pdf 
  4. “Valuing the Life of the Unborn Child: A Bible Study of Exodus 21:22-25.” Lutherans for Life. https://lutheransforlife.org/article/valuing-the-life-of-the-unborn-child-a-bible-study-of-exodus-2122-25/ 
  5. “The Misuse of Exodus 21:22-25 by Pro-Choice Advocates.” Desiring God. https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/the-misuse-of-exodus-21-22-25-by-pro-choice-advocates 
  6. “What Does Exodus 21:22-23 Say About Abortion?” Got Questions. https://www.gotquestions.org/Exodus-21-22-23-abortion.html 
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