ATSS: Andreas Bochmann, “Is Suicide the Ultimate Sin?”
14 March 2024 |
When suicide happens, people are shocked. There is disbelief, if not outright denial. While this true for almost any news of death – it is part of a natural grief reaction — in cases of suicide the reaction appears to be stronger, deeper, and far more difficult to handle. Suicide is one of the last societal taboos, and for many Christians the ultimate sin—unthinkable and unpardonable.
Suicide is indeed a complex topic – theologically, philosophically, medically, as well as therapeutically. It raises questions around the issue of free will vs. mental illness, or even demonic forces, and for those left behind there are feelings of inadequacy and guil. “Why didn’t I notice it?” “Could I have saved the person’s life?”
Social scientists may look at prevalence, doctors and therapists at prevention, theologians for biblical precedence. But how about relatives, friends, fellow Christians? How can they communicate, find comfort, provide compassion?
The focus of our ATSS will be on sharing our experiences with the topic, rather than providing all the answers, let alone solutions of the problem. Acknowledging our helplessness, our pain, perhaps even anger may bring us closer to an understanding of the subject matter than mere facts.
To be sure – the presenter does not believe suicide to be the ultimate sin and will try to argue against such notions from biblical examples and in the light of the gospel. Dealing with the topic should be an exercise in brutal honesty and compassionate reflection.
However, if you have lost someone close to you through suicide rather recently, be advised, that the discussion may trigger more emotions than you can handle alone. If you choose to attend, please have someone with you to hold and comfort you.
Teacher:
Moderator:
Linda Nottingham is a retired businesswoman from Florida.
How to join:
One-click link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88093386697
Passcode: SAUL
ATSS starting time depends on where you are. If you’re on the west coast of the United States, it’ll be 10:30 AM. On the east coast, 1:30 PM. Times in Europe, Africa and elsewhere will vary with local time changes. Please double-check the correct time where you live.
The class is intended to last about 2 hours, though the conversation often continues to 4 PM (Eastern time).
About our class:
- The AT Sabbath Seminar is intended to be a courteous forum. We discuss and ask questions politely. We don’t accuse, get angry, put people down, or judge the state of their salvation.
- Stick to the topic in both comments and chat discussion.
- Make your comments and questions short—don’t dominate.
- Keep your microphones muted unless you are called upon to make your comment or ask your question.
- Indicate your interest in speaking by raising your electronic hand—under the “reactions” button.
- Please use your name when you sign in! Not your phone number, not your initials. This will help us differentiate you from unwelcome guests who want to disrupt us. You can set your name after signing on by clicking on the 3 dots next to your picture, which drops down a menu.
We look forward to getting acquainted with you!
YouTube channel:
You can see all of our previous ATSS recordings here.
Coming up:
- Stephen Chavez
- Bryan Ness
- Sigve Tonstad
- Horace Alexander
- Tom deBruin
- Reinder Bruinsma
