What does the Bible say about mercy killing?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that human life is sacred to God, so deliberately ending an innocent life is not a faithful answer to suffering, though believers are called to provide compassionate care and comfort. Exodus 20:13 forbids murder, grounding the duty to protect life made in God’s image. Romans 12:1 calls Christians to offer their bodies to God as living sacrifices, trusting his wise rule even amid weakness and pain. First Thessalonians 5:14 urges patient, tender support for the weak and discouraged. Revelation 9:5 portrays unbearable suffering without presenting death as humanity’s rightful remedy. Christians should oppose intentional killing while pursuing loving presence, pain relief, prayer, and practical care.
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Exodus 20:13
"You shall not murder.
- Romans 12:1
Therefore I urge you, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:14
We exhort you, brothers, admonish the disorderly, encourage the fainthearted, support the weak, be patient toward all.
- Revelation 9:5
They were given power not to kill them, but to torment them for five months. Their torment was like the torment of a scorpion, when it strikes a person.
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