"it is about whether or not he is to be blamed for the suicide of his roommate."


(dramatic pause)


(removing eyeglasses, drawing a deep breath)

(after another unusually long pause, politely clearing throat)

No.

 

No way.

 

This scenario reminds me of the account I read some time ago about John Newton & wife staying constantly with William Cowper when he was suicidal. They were diligent and were able to help him through the crisis.

I know that doesn't answer the question, but to be honest, I don't know the answer to the question.

 

Interesting scenario! I think either way we answer we'll get nailed. :)

Actually, by virtue of our nature each one of us is a reprobate. Suicide is the greatest act of selfishness a person can commit, and although we don't all arrive at the extreme position, nevertheless we are all capable of such deeds in our flesh.

Even though John Newton and his wife helped William Cowper immensely, ultimately it was the Lord and His sovereign grace that kept Cowper from jumping into the river one night.

Sadly, this situation is all too common in our society today. While "good" people can spend their lifetime watching suicidal people, unless they see their need for Christ and the finished work of His shed blood, they will continue to look only at themselves.

Cowper's most famous song "There is a fountain" was written after one of his worst bouts with suicide. He realized how fully Christ's blood had washed him from his own vileness and sin.

So no, this man was not guilty for the act of his friend committing suicide, but obviously felt extreme guilt in leaving him at such a weak moment. I think we all have had moments in our life when we let friends and family down at critical junctions. It is just a mystery how God has chosen to use his created beings to declare His glory and impact humanity.