Manuscript discovery supports anti-abortion position. [View all]

[Admiral Loinpresser]

Alexandria, Egypt (AP)- August 5, 2013

Archaeologists from the University of Munich have announced the discovery of an earlier version of the bible which could have controversial theological ramifications. The manuscript was found in an archaeological site where the ancient Alexandrian library was located. The point of controversy in the discovered bible is a palimpsest located in the Book of Matthew. A palimpsest is an instance where a scribe would scratch a word or phrase and substitute another. The verse in question is the famous quote by Christ at Matthew 19:14: “But Jesus said suffer the little children to come unto me, for such is the kingdom of heaven.” In the earlier version, it appears the word “fetuses” rather than “children” was used. Because of this discovery some biblical scholars are surmising that in this verse Jesus was beckoning to visibly pregnant women, rather than children.

Ralph Reed, former Executive Director of the Christian Coalition, a pro-life group, responded later on the same day of the announcement of the discovery. At a press conference he stated “Christians all over the world feel further vindicated in their uncompromising defense of the unborn. Our scriptural basis in this movement is stronger than ever. Jesus didn't say 'suffer the little children' he said 'suffer the little fetuses.'”

Many critics of the movement have pointed out that pro-life support of the Republican Party seems contrary to Christ's teachings on the poor and marginalized, given the GOP's repeated attempts to cut social programs aiding women, children and the impoverished. Critics have gone so far as to suggest implementing greater restrictions on abortion while cutting such aid programs is hypocritical.


When questioned on that point, Mr. Reed responded with a smile. “I wouldn't go so far as to say 'God loves fetuses, but once you're born, you're on your own' ... but we now know there is a scriptural basis for such a statement.”