p. 32 | God’s Love and the Prevention of Suicide

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Apr 4, 1907

God’s Love and the Prevention of Suicide

THE Western Recorder (Methodist) says: “The way to lessen the number of suicides is to teach men the terrors of the Lord. A sane man who believes that an eternal hell of anguish and pain awaits the unrepentant murderer will not kill himself.” But that being a complete misrepresentation of God and the teachings of his Word, it would be impossible that it would have the desired effect. Furthermore, as it is inconsistent with the love and mercy of God, it can not draw men to him or cause them to seek salvation in him. The untruth of a ceaseless, burning hell where souls are to groan in unending anguish has never yet stirred in any human breast a sentiment of love toward God; and none will have part in the eternal kingdom save those who love him and are able to praise him for his goodness. Rev. 5: 13. Eternal death — the punishment for sin — and eternal torment — a libel on the love of God — are as far apart as the opposite ends of the universe. “The soul that sinneth, it shall die.” “The wicked . . . shall be ashes.” The love of God toward sinners is the best teaching we know of to prevent suicide.