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What I would like to ask, however, is given your statement above - what is your opinion on those few Christians (even here in the USA) that make the news every year or so that refuse to allow medical treatment on their children by instead opting for faith healing?
Simple..it's child abuse. Nowhere in the Bible does it say not to seek medical treatment; in fact one of Christ's parables outlines medical treatement (See Luke 10:30-37). In this parable, the Samaritan pours oil and alcohol on a wound to soften, cleanse, and provide antiseptic. He then bound the wound in bandages, and paid the innkeeper to keep watch over and continue the treatment. In Matthew 9:11-13 Jesus even honors physicians. Timothy used medicine, there are numerous passages in the Old Testament referring to the use of medicine.
The big argument toward faith healing is James 5:13-20. Yet this passage clearly is indicative of a spiritual sickness causing a physical ailment; not a mere physical ailment. As an example: Animals do not sin, they always do the perfect will of God. Yet, Animals become ill, and die. Illness is a symptom of this fallen world, and is used to show us the Light of Christ. Thorns will grow in the fields and gardens of the righteous and even the most faithful will grow old and die.
It is not much different than this child in India--but here we have laws that protect the children. There is a lot of 'gray area' and proverbial lines in the sand where faith is concerned--but the one thing most fail to remember is that the rights of one individual end where another individuals' rights begin. Children who are left in need of medical care are, for the most part, not able to make an informed, intelligent decision; they have to depend upon their parents to protect them. If that parent fails to care for them properly, then they have done that child harm; and should be punished.
Note, these are my opinions--my feelings on the matter. I've read the theology from other sources, and frankly I find I agree with it. I'm not arguing 'right or wrong', just calling 'em as I see 'em..YMMV
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Refusing Medical Treatment for Reasons of Faith
Taking #2--Culturally, I am appalled at this behavior. This child obviously needs medical attention, and (much like AIDS is so rampant in Buddhist countries) will not receive it because of flawed religious beliefs.
It's somewhat what I was expecting (although I thought more people would pipe up) and I'm not going to argue the who's religion is "right" on this one.
What I would like to ask, however, is given your statement above - what is your opinion on those few Christians (even here in the USA) that make the news every year or so that refuse to allow medical treatment on their children by instead opting for faith healing? (I think CNN had a headline about one recent child that died from such a situation just a few weeks ago.) Is it that much different?
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