One more word about suicide, for it is as prevalent today among the young and the old as any other ill. Suicide is in many ways the most tragic form of death. It usually entails more shock and grief for those who are left behind than any other. And it leaves us with many questions. However, the Bible can address the matter with three truths.
The practice of suicide is very old. The Bible mentions four people who committed suicide (1 Samuel 31:4-5; 2 Samuel 17:23; Matthew 27:5). Today it is increasing at a tremendous rate, especially among the young.
There is no doubt that suicide is a sin. It is a violation of both law and grace. It is a violation of law, for God said, “Thou shalt not kill” (Exodus 20:13). This includes killing yourself as well as killing someone else. Life is good because it’s a gift from God. It is good and to be enjoyed. Suicide is denying this grace and saying that life is not good.
But while suicide is a sin, it is not the unpardonable sin. There is only one sin in the Bible that is unpardonable (Matthew 12:31-32). This is not it.
Our salvation is not based on the way we die any more than it is based on the way we live. It is determined by our relationship to Jesus Christ. If we are a believer in Christ as Savior when we die, we are saved. If not, we are lost (John 3:16-18). The manner of our death does not enter into the picture.