Did Paul Condone Suicide? Implications for Assisted Suicide and Active Euthanasia

The author attempts to refute three main arguments made in defense of the position that the Bible does not condemn suicide: one, that suicide was commonly practised & approved of in Paul’s day; two, that the mystery surrounding Paul’s death suggests the possibility that he may have committed suicide; & three, that Philippians 1:19-26 is the key New Testament passage supporting the view that Paul saw nothing wrong with suicide. The author concludes that although the desire to die can be strong, Christians should turn aside from that temptation, as he did, & find ways to love others & glorify God. (17 refs)