Biblical Answer

The Bible's Teaching on Suicide

The Bible does not explicitly condone or encourage suicide, but rather presents it as a serious violation of God's commandment to not murder (Ex. 20:13). Suicide is considered a sin that requires repentance and God's forgiveness. The Bible teaches that our bodies are temples of God (1 Corinthians 6:12), and therefore, violence to our own bodies is a serious offense.

Understanding the Complexity of Suicide

There is tension between two biblical principles regarding suicide. On one hand, believers are not the owners of their bodies, and life is a gift from God, whether one acknowledges God or not. On the other hand, our lives belong to us in a sense that others do not, making it seem less sinful to harm one's own body than to harm another's. However, the Bible teaches that our lives are precious and not to be taken lightly. The act of suicide is a sin that can have elements of pride, self-exaltation, and hurt to others, leaving a lasting impact on those left behind.

The Gospel and Hope in the Face of Suicide

The gospel provides hope and a way out of suicidal thoughts and feelings. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the ground for hope, and those who commit suicide are still assured of eternal life because of their faith in Christ. The Bible teaches that our bodies are not our own, and we must not take our own lives, even in the midst of pain or suffering. The only unpardonable sin is rejecting Jesus Christ as our Savior, not committing suicide. Therefore, we must seek help, counseling, and support from others, and trust in God's goodness and sovereignty over our lives.