Some scientists and policymakers claim that the moratorium on the use of human embryos for stem cell research has stifled the development of possible cures for debilitating diseases. Thankfully, a true breakthrough seems to have been reached as two labs have recently developed an alternate source that uses cells from adults. Viruses were used as a vector to deliver transcription factors that converted adult somatic cells into pluripotent stem cells. (The virus technique will never be used to actually make these available for clinical use, but creating pluripotent cells from adult somatic cells can be done!) The future finally looks hopeful for stem cell research.
The November issues of various leading science journals explained the procedure, evoking strong reaction from scientists and politicians--not all of it positive. One would think that all concerned would welcome the news. Moral and political objections have been overcome, and the ethical concerns that hampered funding have been virtually eliminated. But many still call for the use of human embryos to harvest stem cells. So why doesn't everyone involved embrace the new technique?
Could it be that a deeper issue has come into play? Could there be a hidden agenda, either on the conscious or subconscious level, in embryonic stem cell research?
Let me call your attention to a biblical war that has been raging almost since the beginning. Lucifer was the highest created being in the angelic hierarchy. He held great power and influence, ranking second only to the Godhead. Along with the other angels, he had praised God for His creative acts "when the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy" (Job 38:7). But he must have smarted as God created His own image in man (Genesis 1:27) and began a new relationship of grace with mankind, relegating angels to the role of "ministering spirits" (Hebrews 1:14).
Scripture doesn't provide the details, but we know that Satan (as he is now known) attempted to usurp God's kingship of the universe. But God will not allow pride or rebellion in His presence, and He banished Satan from the heavenly realm to the newly-formed planet earth.
No doubt he arrived in a rage against God, His work of creation, and God's image in man. In Adam and Eve he saw the potential to mock God's creative work. Thus his first order of business was to tempt them to reject God and His authority. Since that time, his empty promises have led mankind into pain, suffering, disease, and the grave.
Nothing brings Satan such great enjoyment as seeing mankind experience misery and death. Might this be the mentality undergirding embryonic stem cell research, not to mention abortion, euthanasia, and even racially-motivated genocide? Could it be that Satan is empowering and energizing his followers, either knowingly or unknowingly, to carry out his desires?
If these connections are accurate in any regard, then we would expect this negative reaction on the part of certain scientists and leaders to a scientific breakthrough that avoids the destruction of human life. After all, individual doctors may rejoice when human life benefits, but the forces of darkness do not.
*Dr. Morris is President of the Institute for Creation Research.
Cite this article: Morris, J. 2008. A New Source for Stem Cells. Acts & Facts. 37 (1): 3.
