Prayerful Reflection: The Christian Response to the Normalization of Euthanasia
A Global Shift
In the Netherlands, euthanasia is allowed under certain conditions outlined in the Termination of Life on Request and Assisted Suicide (Review Procedures) Act. These conditions include ensuring the patient's request is voluntary and well-considered, their suffering is unbearable with no prospect of improvement, and the procedure is performed by a physician who complies with due care criteria. Physicians are not obligated to perform euthanasia but must report cases to a regional euthanasia review committee, and failure to adhere to due care criteria may result in investigation and potential prosecution. Additionally, certain cases, such as withholding medical procedures at the patient's request or administering medication to alleviate suffering, are not considered euthanasia under the law. For non-residents, physicians must ensure they meet the same due care criteria, including sufficient knowledge of the patient's medical history and the voluntary nature of the request.
Euthanasia laws vary across the globe. Aside from the Netherlands, countries where euthanasia or assisted dying is legal under certain conditions include Belgium, Canada, Colombia, Luxembourg, and Switzerland. In some states of the United States, such as Oregon, Washington, Vermont, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Maine, New Jersey, New Mexico, and Montana (via court decision), physician-assisted dying is also permitted. Each jurisdiction has its own specific regulations and criteria for eligibility.
Theo Boer was a member of a Dutch euthanasia review board from 2005 to 2014, after which he chose to step down. Reflecting on his tenure, he observed a transformation in the Dutch euthanasia approach, noting that over time, death shifted from being seen as a final recourse to becoming the preferred choice for many cases.
The normalization of euthanasia has been observed globally through changes in legislation, cultural attitudes, and medical practices. Here's a rough timeline of significant events contributing to its normalization:
Netherlands (2002): The Netherlands becomes the first country to legalize euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide under certain conditions, including unbearable suffering with no prospect of improvement.
Belgium (2002): Belgium also legalizes euthanasia, following similar criteria as the Netherlands.
Switzerland (1942 - present): Switzerland has a long history of allowing assisted suicide under certain conditions, contributing to the normalization of end-of-life choices.
Oregon, United States (1997): Oregon becomes the first state to legalize physician-assisted dying through the Death with Dignity Act, allowing terminally ill patients to request and receive a prescription for medication to end their lives.
Canada (2016): Canada legalizes euthanasia and assisted suicide, allowing eligible adults with a grievous and irremediable medical condition to request medical assistance in dying.
Luxembourg (2009): Luxembourg legalizes euthanasia and assisted suicide, following similar criteria as Belgium and the Netherlands.
Expansion of Criteria: Over time, some countries and regions have expanded criteria for euthanasia to include not only terminal illness but also severe physical or mental suffering, contributing to the normalization of end-of-life choices for a wider range of conditions.
Public Discourse and Advocacy: Increased public discourse, advocacy efforts by organizations supporting end-of-life choices, and media coverage have played a role in normalizing discussions around euthanasia and presenting it as a legitimate option for individuals facing suffering and terminal illness.
Medicalization: Euthanasia and assisted dying have become increasingly medicalized, with healthcare professionals being involved in the decision-making process and administration of end-of-life interventions.
Global Debate: The global debate on euthanasia continues to evolve, with ongoing discussions about ethical considerations, patient autonomy, healthcare provider roles, and the potential implications for society.
Facing rising costs of care for the elderly, Luc Van Gorp, the chairman of the largest Belgian health insurance fund, ‘Christelijke Mutualiteit’ (Christian Mutual Insurance), is proposing euthanasia as a money-saving solution.
Overall, these factors have contributed to the gradual normalization of euthanasia as an option for individuals facing unbearable suffering or terminal illness in various parts of the world.
Psychologist becomes first person in Peru to die by euthanasia after fighting in court for years
Zoraya ter Beek, a 28-year-old from the Netherlands, plans to undergo euthanasia in early May due to her struggles with depression, autism, and borderline personality disorder. Despite having a loving relationship and a comfortable life, she feels exhausted by her mental health challenges and has decided to end her life. She describes her decision as a liberation from suffering and hopes for a peaceful death at home, surrounded by her loved ones. Her story reflects a growing trend of individuals, especially young people with psychiatric disorders, opting for euthanasia as a way out of their pain, even when treatments are available. Critics argue that such cases reveal a concerning shift in societal attitudes toward suicide, with laws and cultural factors potentially contributing to a normalization of ending one's life.
Franklin Graham has brought this to light with an Facebook post 4/6/24:
Zoraya ter Beek from the Netherlands is 28 years old and she’s tired of living. She has made an appointment with death—she’s going to be euthanized, which is legal in her country. She told the media, “I'm a little afraid of dying, because it's the ultimate unknown. We don't really know what's next—or is there nothing? That's the scary part." God tells us in His Holy Word what’s next. Our soul lives forever, either in heaven in the presence of Almighty God, or in hell separated from Him for eternity. I wish Zoraya knew how much God loved her—and I pray someone can get to her and tell her that He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, from heaven to earth so she could have forgiveness of her sins and have a relationship with Him. I wish she could know His peace in her heart and that she could cast her cares upon Him. Would you join me in praying for Zoraya ter Beek today?
The responsibility for Christians to pray about the normalization of euthanasia is rooted in their faith and the teachings of Scripture. While specific verses addressing euthanasia may not exist, several principles from the Bible guide believers in addressing ethical issues and societal trends:
Sanctity of Life: Christians believe in the sanctity of human life, as each person is created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). This foundational principle underscores the importance of valuing and preserving life from conception to natural death.
"So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them."
Prayer for Guidance: The Bible encourages believers to pray for wisdom and guidance in all matters (James 1:5). As such, Christians are called to pray for discernment and understanding regarding complex ethical issues like euthanasia.
"If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking."
Responsibility to Speak Out: Christians are called to be salt and light in the world, advocating for righteousness and justice (Matthew 5:13-16). This includes speaking out against practices that devalue human life and advocating for compassionate alternatives to euthanasia.
"You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? Can you make it salty again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless. You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden."
Compassion and Empathy: While affirming the sanctity of life, Christians are also called to demonstrate compassion and empathy towards those who are suffering (Matthew 25:35-40). This includes supporting individuals facing end-of-life decisions with love, care, and practical assistance.
"For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me... 'I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!'"
Submission to God's Will: Ultimately, Christians trust in God's sovereignty and submit to His will, even in difficult circumstances (Proverbs 3:5-6). Through prayer, believers seek alignment with God's purposes and guidance in navigating complex ethical dilemmas.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take."
In response to the normalization of euthanasia, Christians are called to pray fervently for discernment, wisdom, and courage to uphold the sanctity of life and advocate for compassionate alternatives. They should also engage in compassionate dialogue, education, and advocacy efforts within their communities to promote a culture of life and dignity for all individuals, especially those facing end-of-life challenges.
Franklin Graham used his influence as a call to prayer on social media. How can each one of us speak up, leveraging our influence in the earth today for the Gospel of Jesus Christ?
Further Implications
Euthanasia is what we formerly called doctor assisted suicide for people facing chronic illness with no hope or cure. As this becomes more accepted, be aware of a reality. This sounds conspiratorial, however these are real conversations first hand. I first remember hearing about overpopulation and how humans were harming the earth in 2010 during a visit to San Diego. The environmentalists hushed one another so others couldn’t hear them talking. I was part of the conversation and like a deer in headlights. Humans, the problem? I later learned this concept was brought to light with certain writings in the 1960’s.
I wondered why euthanasia is becoming so prevalent and accepted among the nations. Can you imagine a world where a person can plan their death just because? We are here now. Let’s take this a step further.
In 2022 I was part of another conversation with supporters of the Green New Deal. As they introduced themselves, they shared how they couldn’t wait to die and be buried in nature for their bodies to compost the earth. I found myself again like a deer in headlights.
In the news 4.9.24 Associated Press AP: UN climate chief presses for faster action, says humans have 2 years left ‘to save the world’
Imagine giving up our bodies for the ‘greater good,’ to save the Mother Earth.
There are current conversations in 2024 about Artificial Intelligence (AI) replacing humans. Interesting that anyone with coaching content can clone themselves and create their own AI, and for $99 a month paid for by the coach, that AI can coach people in their replacement. Imagine this with education, as Microsoft can use a photo and voice sample to remarkably generate AI content. This could easily replace teachers by inputing the content to be taught.
If the goal of environmentalists is to depopulate the earth in order to save the earth, could euthanasia be a method? Once our contribution is cloned into an AI, why does the human body need to exist? The AI with all our content will live forever with our legacy. We can sacrifice this body for compost for the earth’s benefit, so it will no longer utilize resources putting stress on the earth.
Deeper reflection
New York Times 4.22.24, Generative A.I. Arrives in the Gene Editing World of CRISPR: Much as ChatGPT generates poetry, a new A.I. system devises blueprints for microscopic mechanisms that can edit your DNA. The article discusses a new AI technology developed by Profluent, which generates blueprints for microscopic biological mechanisms capable of editing DNA. This technology is inspired by ChatGPT and is based on analyzing vast biological data, including CRISPR methods. Profluent's AI has created a gene editor called OpenCRISPR-1, which the company is open sourcing. While this technology holds promise for precision gene editing, it's still in early stages and requires further testing before practical application. The implications include potential advancements in personalized medicine and treatments tailored to individual genetic profiles, but there are also concerns about ethical use and potential side effects, such as cancer.
From a Christian perspective, editing of DNA changes humans and we as humans are playing god. The God of heaven and earth will intervene. He alone is God.
The earth suffers for the sins of its people,
for they have twisted God’s instructions,
violated his laws,
and broken his everlasting covenant. -Isaiah 24:5
Watching to see where this goes. This is evolving quickly. Just putting pieces of the puzzle together with some critical thinking.🤔
Our focus as Christians is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. He is coming soon. People need salvation through Jesus regardless of how they die. We all will live in an afterlife forever outside of this body, either in Heaven or Hell.
Heaven:
1 Corinthians 2:9 - "What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived—the things God has prepared for those who love him."
Philippians 3:20-21 - "But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body."
Revelation 21:4 - "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death' or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."
John 14:2-3 - "My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am."
Hell:
Matthew 10:28 - "Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell."
Mark 9:47-48 - "And if your eye causes you to stumble, pluck it out. It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into hell, where 'the worms that eat them do not die, and the fire is not quenched.'"
Matthew 25:41 - "Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels."
Revelation 20:15 - "Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire."
AI offering an eternal existence on this earth, as depicted in the documentary, ENDEVR, is a lie. One world religion, as declared by the CONGRESS OF LEADERS OF WORLD AND TRADITIONAL RELIGIONS, is not of God. Jesus is the way, truth, and life and no one comes to the Father except through Him. John 14:6
Receive Jesus as Lord and Savior today!
Heavenly Father,
I come before you humbly, recognizing my need for a Savior. Your word tells me in Romans 10:9 that if I confess with my mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in my heart that you raised him from the dead, I will be saved. I believe that Jesus Christ died for my sins according to the Scriptures, and that he was buried, and that he rose again on the third day according to the Scriptures (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).
I repent of my sins and ask for your forgiveness. I accept Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, inviting him into my heart and life. Please cleanse me, renew me, and guide me by your Holy Spirit from this day forward. Thank you for your love, grace, and mercy.
In Jesus' name, Amen
We are in a spiritual battle. The Bible describes and can enlighten you with understanding of current events. I recommend reading the Bible like a book.
Jesus in the gospel of Matthew 4:17 began His message to the world and this is what He led with:
From then on Jesus began to preach, “Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.