Q. I'm looking for scriptures dealing with suicide. I had a brother who took his life not too long ago, and I need to know what the Bible says about a man taking his own life. (Submitted by: C. D.) A. When anyone commits any sin, it is a very sorrowful event. It is especially hurtful to those who know the sinner and even much more the family. We certainly extend our sympathy regarding your brother's death no matter what the cause. The world looks upon suicide in a very twisted manner. People tend to categorize sin, but God does not! In James 2:10 the Apostle said if you keep all of God's Law and break one little point you are guilty of breaking all of it. "For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all." (James 2:10, NIV)
If you just have a thought in your mind with hatred toward your brother you are guilty of murder: " "You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not murder and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, 'Raca,' is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell." " (Matthew 5:21-22, NIV).
Hating yourself, therefore, is murder, and you are breaking the sixth commandment which states "Thou shalt not kill" (Exodus 20:13). Suicide is murder of oneself. It is a sin, but ANY SIN is penalized by death (Romans 6:23). | 