Faith
Peers Stand Against Assisted Suicide Bill
Faith Facts
- The House of Lords fiercely debated the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, expressing deep concern from all political backgrounds.
- Faith leaders, like the Bishop of London, reminded Parliament of the value and dignity of every life, echoing biblical teaching that God alone holds the power over life and death.
- Legalising assisted suicide threatens to undermine Christian compassion, reduces investment in palliative care, and endangers the most vulnerable in society.
Last Friday, members of the House of Lords raised strong objections to the assisted suicide bill, questioning both its moral foundation and practical consequences. Their criticisms transcended party lines, reflecting a united conviction on the value of human life grounded in Christian faith.
Faithful voices have emphasized that all lives bear dignity granted by God, and that suffering is not without purpose under God’s sovereign care. The words of 1 Samuel 2:6 remind us: “The Lord kills and he brings alive.” Our times rest in His hands.
“I have a friend who calls it the license to kill Bill. It is not an assisted dying Bill. It is an assisted suicide Bill. Suicide is wrong. But this Bill effectively says that suicide is okay. What message does that send to our society? Suicide is not okay. Suicide is wrong. This Bill is wrong and in my opinion it should not pass.”
– Former Prime Minister Theresa May
Christian leaders urged compassion for those who suffer, yet insisted that legalizing assisted suicide diminishes the sanctity of life and changes the heart of culture in harmful ways. Evidence from other nations shows expanding criteria and reduced palliative care follow such laws.
Despite urging for personal choice, the real impact will be felt across the nation, especially among the vulnerable. “Most people die well. I have known people to experience the most valuable days of their life as it comes to an end,” said the Bishop of London, illustrating the hope found even in hardship.
As this bill progresses, faith communities are called to pray for its defeat, trusting in God’s design for every life and upholding the true meaning of compassion.
Stand with believers across the country in prayer and action to protect vulnerable lives and uphold biblical truth in our nation.