Chapter Two
Biblical Rationale
Introduction In order to give chaplains a clear guide on how to help those suffering with thoughts of suicide, they must first see suicide as it is addressed in the Bible. To do this, a person must be aware of the various aspects of suicide that are seen in society as well as within scripture. Ultimately, suicidality begins when a person expresses an ideation or desire to die. A suicidal ideation is defined as any self-reported thoughts of engaging in suicide related behaviors without an attempt.[footnoteRef:1] The person expressing an ideation can range widely from one who has developed a plan and set the plan into motion or they could merely have expressed the willingness to die. Beyond an ideation, is the …show more content…
It is precisely at this point that the position shift is abundantly apparent for all biblical readers. Kistemaker points out that “Subtly Luke contrast the prisoner’s vigil and the jailor’s sleep; the confidence of Paul and the perplexity of the jailor.”[footnoteRef:23] The quake had quit literally shaken the jailor physically and emotionally. This has caused the jailor’s previous situation to turn rapidly and lead him to draw his sword. The jailor realizes that his situation has changed. Prior to falling asleep, his prisoners were secure behind a locked door. His job, livelihood, and mission were all intact. Upon realizing that his situation has drastically changed, the text does not give an indication that he considered his options. With the drawing of his sword and either placing it to his heart or neck, the jailor is prepared to drive it into his body in order to end his life. This act of the jailor is based upon his belief that the prisoners have all escaped and he will pay with his life. In his Commentary on the Book of Acts, F.F. Bruce noted that “For a man brought up to a Roman soldier’s ideas of duty and discipline there was only one course open – suicide.”[footnoteRef:24] This devotion to duty that the Roman veteran held was common throughout the book of Acts. It can be seen prior to this event is Acts 12:19 and later in Acts 27:42. This Roman custom attached to prison guards ensured that they understood that their lives would be required if they lost a prisoner left in their charge. This jailor had gone to bed assured that his job had been done and that his mission would be a success. However, the violent earthquake changed the situation and his perception about life. He now wanted to escape the agony and pain he was sure this accident would bring him. [23: Ibid. pg. 599] [24: F.F. Bruce, pg.
Biblical Rationale
Introduction In order to give chaplains a clear guide on how to help those suffering with thoughts of suicide, they must first see suicide as it is addressed in the Bible. To do this, a person must be aware of the various aspects of suicide that are seen in society as well as within scripture. Ultimately, suicidality begins when a person expresses an ideation or desire to die. A suicidal ideation is defined as any self-reported thoughts of engaging in suicide related behaviors without an attempt.[footnoteRef:1] The person expressing an ideation can range widely from one who has developed a plan and set the plan into motion or they could merely have expressed the willingness to die. Beyond an ideation, is the …show more content…
It is precisely at this point that the position shift is abundantly apparent for all biblical readers. Kistemaker points out that “Subtly Luke contrast the prisoner’s vigil and the jailor’s sleep; the confidence of Paul and the perplexity of the jailor.”[footnoteRef:23] The quake had quit literally shaken the jailor physically and emotionally. This has caused the jailor’s previous situation to turn rapidly and lead him to draw his sword. The jailor realizes that his situation has changed. Prior to falling asleep, his prisoners were secure behind a locked door. His job, livelihood, and mission were all intact. Upon realizing that his situation has drastically changed, the text does not give an indication that he considered his options. With the drawing of his sword and either placing it to his heart or neck, the jailor is prepared to drive it into his body in order to end his life. This act of the jailor is based upon his belief that the prisoners have all escaped and he will pay with his life. In his Commentary on the Book of Acts, F.F. Bruce noted that “For a man brought up to a Roman soldier’s ideas of duty and discipline there was only one course open – suicide.”[footnoteRef:24] This devotion to duty that the Roman veteran held was common throughout the book of Acts. It can be seen prior to this event is Acts 12:19 and later in Acts 27:42. This Roman custom attached to prison guards ensured that they understood that their lives would be required if they lost a prisoner left in their charge. This jailor had gone to bed assured that his job had been done and that his mission would be a success. However, the violent earthquake changed the situation and his perception about life. He now wanted to escape the agony and pain he was sure this accident would bring him. [23: Ibid. pg. 599] [24: F.F. Bruce, pg.