Based on the case and other topic Resources, in 300-400 words, how does the concept of suffering in a Christian worldview inform their deliberations about the choices they will make?
| George, after the diagnosis of ALS, knows that it cannot be cured and can only fear the suffering and torture that comes with the condition. He also fears growing more dependent on others after he loses his ability to speak and move around as the ALS progresses. This leads him to think about voluntary euthanasia as an option to help him escape the suffering. Although he views his suffering associated with ALS from a physical perspective and death as an end to the suffering, the Christian worldview on the concept of suffering may influence his deliberations about the choices he makes. For instance, the Christian worldview appreciates the reality of suffering and views suffering as going beyond the physical to the spiritual. The Christian worldview presents suffering as an opportunity for one to grow close to God and redeem oneself, as it is seen as a result of the fallen world (Hoehner, 2020). It is through suffering that Christians tend to grow closer to God as they grow more trusting in the will of God and getting the favor of being cured. Suffering comes with death. Both suffering and death in the Christian worldview are not the end of life at all but are viewed as both payment for the fall of man through sin and the guarantee for resurrection into a life free from suffering. In the case of George, although he fears becoming a prisoner in his own body, the Christian view of suffering as a part of man’s existence in the fallen world and a promise of resurrection and a life free of suffering may change how he views his current life with ALS. Such a worldview can also influence his decision to go for euthanasia and focus on appreciating his life, becoming more connected with God, and living the rest of his life more purposefully. |