Did you know that about 39 percent of evangelicals believe that “mercy killing” for someone who’s suffering is morally permissible?
That raises another question: How many Christians today understand the Bible’s perspective on suffering?
Few people have the credibility to address issues as poignant as suffering and the value of human life like Joni Eareckson Tada. Fifty years ago, she broke her neck in a diving accident and was left a quadriplegic. Since then, she’s been a tireless advocate for people with disabilities and has stood against the growing movement that promotes suicide for disabled and disadvantaged people.
Joni and I recorded a conversation a few months back that will help you better understand why we should oppose the termination of human life for issues related to one’s perceived quality of life.
On the face of it, providing a way out of suffering for those who are in pain seems compassionate. But there is a lot beneath the surface, with ramifications across all aspects of civilized society.
The Bible says in Genesis 1:26 that we are created in the image of God. Thus, each one of us reflects Him from the moment of conception until the final day of our lives.
As Focus on the Family declares in our statement on the sanctity of human life:
“We believe that human beings are created by God in His image. Therefore every person, from conception to natural death, possesses inherent dignity and immeasurable worth – including preborn children, elderly individuals, those with special needs and others marginalized by society. Christians, then, are called to defend, protect, and value all human life.”
Joni has great insight into the value of human life, and has great wisdom for families navigating end-of-life decisions. I appreciate the boldness with which she addresses this issue. She walks – and I use the word “walk” there quite intentionally – the path of suffering every day. She also walks an ever-deepening journey with Christ every day.
It’s a powerful conversation that you won’t want to miss. Tune in for “Understanding God’s Plan for the End of Life” on your local radio station, online, on iTunes, via Podcast, or on our free phone app.
I also encourage you to get Joni’s book When Is It Right To Die?: A Comforting and Surprising Look At Death and Dying. Right now, for a gift of any amount, we’ll send you a copy. (Check our website for details.)
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