Photo from DOJ Epstein files library.
Recent document dumps surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein scandal have highlighted evils that shock the conscience: trafficking and sexual abuse of vulnerable girls by powerful men, as well as how connected those in power are behind the scenes of nations across the globe. But these headlines also reveal something deeper about morality in Western Civilization.
Historically, the treatment of women and children in the ancient pagan world was often brutal. Pre-Christian societies treated sexuality as largely unrestricted and frequently exploitative. Philosophers and historians have documented how sexual exploitation was common in the Greek and Roman world, and even accepted among elites.
Christianity introduced a radically different vision of human dignity. By teaching that human beings are created in the image of God and that sex belongs within the covenant of marriage between a man and a woman, Biblical morality placed restraints on sexual behavior that had rarely existed before. These teachings elevated the status of women, protected children, and re-centered sexuality around love and commitment rather than domination and exploitation. Critics of Christianity certainly try to make the case that the Scripture and early church leaders were similarly oppressive toward women, but that view simply doesn’t hold water. In the face of the sexually exploitative culture of the Greco-Roman world, Christian teachings were actually liberating.
This history matters today. As our society reacts with outrage to the crimes revealed in the Epstein files, it is appealing to moral principles that largely came from the Christian worldview. Ironically, many who reject Christian sexual ethics still rely on those same moral assumptions when condemning abuse and exploitation.
Ultimately, justice for victims requires two things: exposing wrongdoing and holding perpetrators accountable. As millions of pages of Epstein files are researched and cross referenced, we should not only work toward transparency of the elite and seek justice for crimes committed. We should also pray that our culture recognizes the moral values of our founding. Our American heritage and Western Civilization is deeply rooted in lasting Biblical truths. May these political headlines lead those reading them to understand the moral truths that bring forth our outrage over despicable, criminal behavior.
If America turns its back on our Christian heritage, we shouldn’t be surprised when values like honesty, justice, and freedom are abandoned. At PhyllisSchlafly.com, we still believe in “rights endowed by our Creator.” If you agree, find out more at PhyllisSchlafly.com. Thanks for listening to the Phyllis Schlafly Report.
