Expert: Messianic Rabbi Yochanan Levine - 6/6/2007

Question
I recently had a family member that committed suicide. I would like references to any bible verses that pertain to this subject. I have never personally read any verses that deal with the subject. I have always been taught that suicide is a quick trip to hell. I have also heard that this was implemented by the catholic church during the times of the plague to reduce the amount of self imposed deaths as a result of the plague. Can you please tell me what bible verses to reference this topic.

Answer
Hi Dave,
First, please accept my condolences. I too have lost a loved one this way several years ago. I know how difficult such losses can be.

There is nothing in the Bible directly dealing with this topic.
The reason Christians sometimes say that suicide is "a quick trip to Hell" is as an attempt to keep people from doing it. Also, they reason that as murder is a sin, self murder would be as well.

However... We must ask the question: What is salvation?

Eph. 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

You probably know the so-called Romans Road to Heaven and other simplified explanations on how to become a Christian. These are the scriptures to consider.

Salvation is a free gift of God, not of works lest one might boast. If your family member accepted Jesus as defined in the Bible he/she was saved and received the after life awards of that salvation. As a Christian, his/her fate is the same as anyone else who has died of whatever cause.

The important thing here is to remember that:
I John 1:10 "If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us."

Your loved one was a human being and as all of us, was subject to human weaknesses. God understands.

Remember,

John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved."

God is our eternal well wisher and beloved Parent.

Hope this helps,
Write back any time,
~John of AllFaith