A Christian teaching that could be used in a discussion about euthanasia is “The lord gives and the lord takes away”. This means that nothing apart from God has the right to give or take life, and euthanasia is therefore wrong. It also shows that if any human takes life, it is playing God and is indirectly disrespecting God. Roman Catholics would say that this teaching is talking about life and therefore euthanasia is wrong and should not be done, however, the Church of England may say that this is referring to material possessions and so it doesn’t apply to euthanasia.
Another Christian teaching that could be used in a discussion about euthanasia is “Do not kill”. This is one of the 10 commandments given by God. That means that they are sacred and should not be broken. For Roman Catholics, this would apply to all killing including euthanasia, even if it is done out of love. The Church of England would say that euthanasia may be an exception if it is the last resort and is being done out of love. They would also say that if it is the most loving response and if the person is going to have no or a poor quality of life, then euthanasia may be acceptable.
“All humans are made in the image of God”, is also another teaching that can be used in a discussion about euthanasia. This teaching means that everyone is made in the image of God, so we are all like God spiritually. Roman Catholics would say that this teaching means all life is sacred, even people who are terminally ill and only God has the right to take their life and that if someone wants their life to be taken (euthanasia), they are being ungrateful to God and disrespecting God. The Church of England may agree with Roman Catholics, but some may say that God is loving and forgiving and if someone has no quality of life then euthanasia would be the most loving response.
“God is there in times of need to give you strength” could also be used in a discussion about euthanasia. This teaching means that God is there for you when you need help and that Christians should turn to god for help. It also shows that euthanasia is wrong and shows lack in faith. It also shows that you should turn to God or Hospices when you need help instead of euthanasia. Roman Catholics would say that this teaching means that euthanasia is wrong as it is disrespecting God.