Matters of Life and Death
Matters of Life and Death
Christian Beliefs on Life and Death
- Christians believe in the sanctity of life, holding that all life is sacred and a divine gift from God.
- Human life is viewed as inseparable from the soul, with both together constituting a full human being.
- Many Christians believe in life after death, often envisaged as residing in heaven or hell.
Euthanasia
- Euthanasia, or the practice of intentionally ending a life to relieve pain and suffering, is often opposed by Christians as they argue only God should determine the end of life.
- Different Christian denominations have myriad views on euthanasia, with many emphasising the sanctity of life.
Abortion
- Abortion is a practice that is highly contested within Christian circles, with many against it due to their belief in the value and sanctity of human life from conception.
- Some Christians allow for exceptions in cases such as rape, danger to mother’s life, or serious disability of the foetus.
Capital Punishment
- Capital punishment, or the death penalty, is viewed variably within Christianity, with some supporting it and others opposing it.
- Some Christians oppose capital punishment, quoting “Thou shall not kill” from the Ten Commandments.
- Other Christians may support capital punishment, believing it serves as a fitting retribution for certain crimes and deters others from committing them.
Suicide
- Historically, suicide has been considered a sin by any Christian denominations as it’s seen to infringe on the sanctity of life.
- Today, while suicide is still seen as a tragic act, many Christian churches and individuals emphasise compassion over condemnation, recognising the role mental health can play.
War and Peace
- Christians generally promote peace and discourage violence, believing that one should ‘turn the other cheek’ instead of retaliating.
- Some Christians may believe in ‘Just War’ - the concept that war may be justifiable in certain, stringent conditions.