Suicide Forbidden. RCCG Sunday School Manual.

Memory Verse: “Casting all your care upon Him, for He careth for you”– 1 Peter 5:7. 

Bible Passage: Romans 5:1-8. 

Introduction 

Suicide is the act of intentionally causing one’s death or deliberately killing one’s self. Research shows that approximately 90% of people who have died by suicide were suffering from a mental illness at the time. The most common mental illness reported is depression. Also, many suicides happen impulsively in moments of crisis with a breakdown in the ability to deal with life stresses, such as financial problems, relationship breakups or chronic pain and illness. IOn addition, experiencing conflict, disaster, violence, abuse (physical, sexual, emotional, verbal and so on), discrimination or loss and a sense of isolation are strongly associated with suicidal behaviour, intense sadness and hopelessness; not caring about activities; that used to matter, withdrawal from family, friends, sports and social activities; substance (drug, alcohol) abuse are some of the common sign of suicidal thoughts. 

OUTLINES 

1. BIBLICAL VIEW OF SUICIDE

2. ANTIDOTES TO SUICIDAL THOUGHTS/ATTEMPTS

THE BIBLICAL VIEW OF SUICIDE 

The Bible view suicide as equal to murder (self-murder). God is the only one who is to decide when and how a person should die. We should say with the Psalmist, “My times are in thy hand…” (Ps. 31:15). God is the giver of life. He gives and He takes away (Job 1:21). The Bible mentions six specific people who committed suicide: Abimelech (Judges 9:54), Saul (1 Sam. 31:4). , Saul’s armour bearer (1 Sam. 31:4-6). Ahitophel (2 Sam. 17:23), Zimri (1 Kings 16:18). and Judas (Matt. 27:5). 

Suicide, the taking of one’s own life, is ungodly because it rejects God’s gifts of life. No one should presume to take God’s authority upon them to end their life. Some people in Scripture felt deep despair in life. Solomon , in his pursuit of pleasure, reached the point where he “hated life” (Ecl. 2:17). Elijah was fearful and depressed and yearned for death (1 Kings 19:4). Jonah was so angry at God that he wished to die (Jonah 4:8). Even the Apostle Paul and his missionary companion at one point were under great pressure that resulted in despair (2 Cor. 1:8).

However, none of these men committed suicide. Solomon learned to fear God and keep His commandments (Eccl. 12:13). Elijah was comforted by an Angel, allowed to rest, and given a new commission (1 Kings 19:5,15). Jonah received admonition and rebuke from God (Jonah 4:1-3, 8-11). Paul learned that, although the pressure he faced was beyond his ability to endure, the Lord can bear all things. (2 Cor. 1:9). 

ANTIDOTES TO SUICIDAL THOUGHTS/ ATTEMPTS

According to the Bible, suicide is a sin (Ex. 20:13). Therefore, if you or anyone around you expresses suicidal thoughts or exhibits self-harming behaviours, seek pastoral and professional help. In addition, the following steps may help to rescue anyone having suicidal thoughts:

1. Take a few moments to consider letting God prove His love for you (Romans 5:5). 
2. Know that Jesus identifies with you in your time of rejection and humiliation (Is. 52:2-6). 
3. Jesus Christ endured suffering and pain so that you might have all your sins forgiven and your weight of guilt removed. (Romans 5:7-8; Romans 8:32).
4. Know that Jesus will forgive and repair your brokenness and restore your joy if you humbly receive Him as Your Saviour (Is. 1:18; 2 Cor. 5:17). 
5. Be assured that Jesus will always come to your rescue whenever you are in trouble if only you cry to or call upon Him (Ps. 61:1-2; Jer. 33:3; Ps. 50:15).

CONCLUSION: No matter how bad things are in your life, there is the God of love who is waiting for you to guide you through your tunnel of despair and out into His marvelous light.

QUESTIONS

1. What is the Biblical view of suicide?
2. Mention the antidotes to suicidal thoughts/ attempts. 

Action Point
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