Is Assisted Suicide Ever Right?

By Andrew J. Spencer

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A Concise Christian Response to Assisted Suicide

Assisted suicide is on the rise. In some countries, it has become a legal option for those with a terminal diagnosis and individuals who seek to escape depression, poverty, and loneliness. Western culture has recast elective death as a clinical, compassionate good. How should we, as Christians, evaluate this alarming trend? 

In this brief booklet, Andrew Spencer offers a biblical response to assisted suicide by addressing key moral questions about human dignity, suffering, the image of God, and his purpose for our lives. Combining scriptural reasoning and pastoral sensitivity, Spencer helps believers discern what is morally good, equips Christian leaders to discuss the topic thoughtfully, and points non-Christians to the hope found in the gospel of Jesus Christ.

  • Offers a Christian Perspective: Helps both believers and non-believers engage the moral questions surrounding assisted suicide and find hope in the gospel
  • Grounded in Moral Reasoning: A helpful resource for pastors, counselors, youth leaders, and caregivers seeking a framework for this topic of debate
  • Short, Accessible Format: A concise biblical exploration of human dignity, suffering, the image of God, and his purpose for our lives
  • Part of the TGC Hard Questions Series: Equips readers with answers to difficult questions facing today’s church

Author:

Andrew J. Spencer

Andrew Spencer (PhD, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary) serves as associate editor for books at The Gospel Coalition. He is the author of Hope for God's Creation: Stewardship in an Age of Futility and Doctrine in Shades of Green: Theological Perspectove for Environmental Ethics. Spencer is an elder at Crosspointe Church. He and his wife, Jennifer, have three children and live in southeast Michigan.

Product Details

Format: Paperback
Page Count: 64
Size: 4.5 in x 6.5 in
Weight: 10.0 ounces
ISBN-13: 979-8-8749-1373-1
ISBN-UPC: 9798874913731
Published: April 06, 2027

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Is Assisted Suicide Only a Modern Problem?
Chapter 2: Why Is Human Life Sacred?
Chapter 3: Must We Extend Life Indefinitely?
Chapter 4: What Does Scripture Say About Suicide?
Chapter 5: What About the Golden Rule?
Chapter 6: What Do We Do with Suffering?
Chapter 7: What About Personal Autonomy?
Chapter 8: How Can the Church Resist Assisted Suicide?
Chapter 9: How Do We Talk to Those Considering Assisted Suicide?
Chapter 10: Should We Help People Die?