Is Suicide the End or Just the Beginning? Pastor Chris Oyakhilome has addressed this problematic question, emphasizing that suicide is not just a personal decision but a spiritual matter with eternal consequences. His teachings clarify what the Bible says about life, death, and the fate of the soul after suicide.
Suicide is one of the most heartbreaking topics in today’s world, leaving many wondering what happens to the soul afterwards. Throughout history, even biblical figures like King Saul took their own lives. But does suicide lead to eternal damnation? Or is there hope for those who have taken this tragic step?
Understanding the Spiritual Reality of Life and Death
According to Chris Oyakhilome, life is a gift from God, and it is not ours to take. The Bible clearly states in Ezekiel 18:4, “All souls are mine,” meaning that every human life belongs to God. This means that ending one’s life is not just a physical act but a spiritual one.
The world may see suicide as an escape from suffering, but in reality, it does not bring relief. Instead, it brings the soul into another realm—one where consequences are eternal. This is why Oyakhilome warns that suicide is never a solution and urges those struggling with despair to seek help from God rather than give in to darkness.
The Biblical View on Suicide
Many people ask if suicide is an unforgivable sin. Some believe that taking one’s own life automatically leads to hell. In contrast, others argue that God’s grace is sufficient even in these cases. Pastor Chris explains that the real issue behind suicide is not just the act itself but the state of the soul at the time of death.
The Bible shows examples of people who took their own lives—like Judas Iscariot and King Saul—but it does not explicitly say where their souls ended up. However, Pastor Chris points out that suicide is often driven by hopelessness, fear, and unbelief, all of which go against faith in God. When someone gives up on life, they are essentially rejecting God’s ability to help them through their troubles.
Is Suicide an Unforgivable Sin?
One of the most debated questions is whether suicide condemns someone to hell. Oyakhilome teaches that while suicide is a grave sin, it is not automatically an unforgivable one. The key question is: Was the person in Christ at the time of death?
If someone is born again, they belong to Jesus Christ, and His sacrifice covers their sins. However, Pastor Chris warns that suicide is still a dangerous choice because it removes the opportunity for repentance. The Bible teaches that forgiveness requires repentance, and if someone dies in the act of taking their life, they may not have a chance to ask for forgiveness.
For those who are not in Christ, the situation is even more serious. If a person dies without salvation, whether by suicide or any other means, their soul is lost. The Bible states in Hebrews 9:27, “It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.” This means that once life ends, the opportunity to choose God is gone.
The Role of Demonic Influence in Suicide
Pastor Chris has spoken about the spiritual forces behind suicide, explaining that suicidal thoughts often come from the devil. Jesus said in John 10:10, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy,” showing that Satan’s goal is to convince people that life is not worth living.
Many who struggle with suicidal thoughts hear voices telling them they are worthless or that death will bring peace. But Oyakhilome teaches that these voices are not from God. Instead, they are lies from the enemy, designed to separate people from God’s purpose.
He encourages believers to fight these thoughts with God’s Word and prayer, emphasizing that suicide is never God’s plan for anyone’s life. No matter how dark things seem, there is always hope in Christ.
Hope for Those Who Have Lost Someone to Suicide
For families who have lost loved ones to suicide, the pain can be unbearable. Many struggles with guilt, wondering if they could have done something differently. Others worry about the eternal destiny of their loved one’s soul.
Pastor Chris reminds believers that God is just and merciful. While the Bible warns against suicide, it also teaches that only God knows the heart of each person. No one can say with certainty where a person’s soul has gone, as only God knows what happened in their final moments.
Instead of living in regret, Oyakhilome encourages families to find comfort in prayer and trust in God’s wisdom. He also stresses the importance of reaching out to those who may be struggling, reminding them that life is precious, and that God can bring healing to even the most broken heart.
How to Overcome Suicidal Thoughts
For anyone struggling with suicidal thoughts, Pastor Chris offers hope. He teaches that the answer is not in death but in Jesus Christ, who gives life, peace, and purpose. Here are some of his key recommendations:
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Turn to God in Prayer – Talk to God about your struggles. He hears and cares.
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Read the Word of God – The Bible is full of promises that bring comfort and strength.
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Surround Yourself with Faithful Believers – Find a church community that can support and encourage you.
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Reject the Lies of the Enemy – Recognize that thoughts of suicide come from the devil and resist them in the name of Jesus.
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Seek Help – If you are struggling, don’t be afraid to talk to a pastor, counsellor, or trusted friend.
God has a plan for your life
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome’s teachings on suicide remind us that life is a precious gift from God. While the Bible does not explicitly say that suicide leads to automatic condemnation, it does warn that taking one’s own life is a serious and dangerous act.
Suicide is not just a physical decision but a spiritual battle. The devil seeks to destroy, but Jesus Christ came to give life and hope. No matter how difficult life may seem, God’s love is greater, and He offers a way forward for those who seek Him.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, remember that God has a plan for your life. Choose to hold on, seek help, and trust in His promises. Life is worth living, and with Christ, there is always hope.
