The Sarco Suicide Pods, developed by Exit International, have been designed for assisted suicide and can be operated by the user lying inside it. The Exit International is a non-profit firm that has been advocated for legalisation of voluntary euthanasia. The process takes less than a minute and death occur through hypoxia and hypocapnia, which is intended to allow a person to die relatively peacefully and painlessly. (Indian Express, 7 December 2021) Instead of helping people to live with dignity, they are assisted to die.
There are some suicides in the Bible. Abimelech, Saul, Saul’s armour-bearer, Athithophel, Zimri and Judas. (Judges 9:54; I Samuel 31:4-6; II Samuel 17:23; I Kings 16:18; Matthew 27:5) Except for Saul’s armour-bearer about whom nothing is mentioned, all were wicked. Samson like a suicide bomber, killed himself along with his enemies. His intention shows it was like getting killed in war. (Judges 16: 26-31)
Ten Commandments teach murder is sin, if so, self-murder is also sin. (Exodus 20:13) Believers know that their times are in the hands of God. (Psalms 31:15) In the world, because of distress, a person could be driven to suicide. Prophets like Jonah and Elijah expressed their desire to die. (I Kings 19:4; Jonah 4:8) Paul also was under pressure, and felt it was beyond his ability to endure. (II Corinthians 1:8)
Humans are created in the image of God. Only the Sovereign God has authority to give life and take life. Suicide is rebellion against God and trying to usurp His authority. Suicide is also not trusting God’s love, plan and purpose in life. All humans are in the world according to God’s purpose.
It could be legal but immoral and unspiritual. Believers should trust the Lord and His promise. “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation He will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” (I Corinthians 10:13)
Do I celebrate God-given life?