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Departing in Peace: Biblical Decision-Making at the End of Life
Decisions at the end of life create deep anxiety for those involved. But it is possible to find peace and comfort amid the hard choices.
As a church elder and hospital ethics consultant, Bill Davis has talked, walked, and prayed with many people in end-of-life situations. Employing varied case studies and biblical, ethical insight, he guides you in making decisions for yourself and others, preparing advance directives, taking financial concerns into account, and navigating new realities in American hospitals.
As a church elder and hospital ethics consultant, Bill Davis has talked, walked, and prayed with many people in end-of-life situations. Employing varied case studies and biblical, ethical insight, he guides you in making decisions for yourself and others, preparing advance directives, taking financial concerns into account, and navigating new realities in American hospitals.
328 pages, Paperback
Published October 31, 2017
53 people are currently reading
163 people want to read
About the author
Bill Davis
3 books3 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author by this name in the Goodreads database.
Bill Davis (MA, Westminster Seminary California; PhD, University of Notre Dame) is professor of philosophy at Covenant College, adjunct professor of systematic theology at Reformed Theological Seminary, and an elder in the Presbyterian Church in America.
Bill Davis (MA, Westminster Seminary California; PhD, University of Notre Dame) is professor of philosophy at Covenant College, adjunct professor of systematic theology at Reformed Theological Seminary, and an elder in the Presbyterian Church in America.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
August 18, 2023
Many years back I was hired on as a part-time hospice chaplain in Midland Texas. Sometimes emotionally exhausting, at other times extremely enriching. It was during that 1 ½ year time I gained a deep appreciation for end-of-life occurrences and comprehension that came in handy as my own father reached the end of his days. And that period as a hospice chaplain has confronted me with my own mortality and brevity of life. That’s what makes “Departing in Peace: Biblical Decision-Making at the End of Life” such a valuable volume. This 328-page paperback, penned by Bill Davis, professor of philosophy at Covenant College, adjunct professor of systematic theology at Reformed Theological Seminary, and an elder in the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), brings readers to address important questions for themselves and their loved ones when they approach their final season. It may well bring one to tears, but more importantly, it will give a person biblical and practical tools that will help readers immensely. For those in my Christian denomination (the PCA), they will appreciate that Bill Davis employs and interacts with the 1988 PCA Report on Heroic Measures.
The first three chapters lay down the biblical perspective on death, dying, preserving life and end-of-life treatments. Basically, the skeletal and muscular aspects of the volume are formed in these pages, so that once a reader grasps this material, the remainder of the book will make greater sense and become resource material for future decisions. Chapter 4 are six real-life scenarios, true stories, that are broken up into alternative decisions and which part of the path is the better direction and why. The author even guides readers through the proper and inappropriate language used in these settings. The next three chapters get into the nitty-gritty of advance directives, money, and hospital experiences. The final, short chapter concludes the book with a few “now what” ideas. And there is more helpful material in the appendices and glossary. Though the book looks “big” it is easy to read and reason through.
Throughout the manuscript Davis highlights various biblical principles that are God-honoring, Scriptural, and thoughtful. One of the underlying premises of the volume is that “God’s Word permits us to decline life-sustaining medical treatment that is ineffective or that we, as servants of Christ, judge to be excessively burdensome” (11). Most of the book comes back around to this premise and works it out in various situations. Yet, in the end, we are “not to hasten our own death or the death of others… but avoiding death should not be our primary goal. We are made to glorify God and enjoy him forever, and the end of physical life will be only one moment in that greater objective” (41). I found this manuscript meaningful in its conclusions and thought-provoking approach. If I have any reason to pause and wonder about any particular subject in the book it would be the chapter on the role of finances and making promises to pay medical expenses that one can’t possibly remunerate with regard to medical treatments and end-of-life matters. I get what the author was stating that not only is one’s life precious, but so is one’s integrity and the honor of God’s name (205). Yet the chapter made me stop, think, and left me undecided about its conclusions. I think Davis is on to something, I just haven’t decided how much I agree. Nevertheless, it is a well-thought-out set of observations.
“Departing in Peace” will add peace-of-mind to many who are in troubled circumstances related to death and dying. It is essential in aiding us in remembering our own deaths, and that none of us are getting out of here alive. Yet it is also a vital resource in assisting us as we face decisions about our own, or our loved one’s dying moments. I wished I had had this volume when I was a hospice chaplain but am glad to have digested it now that I am moving out to the edges of mid-life. This book should be picked up by every Christian. And it needs to be read and discussed by every elder and deacon board. I highly recommend the book.
The first three chapters lay down the biblical perspective on death, dying, preserving life and end-of-life treatments. Basically, the skeletal and muscular aspects of the volume are formed in these pages, so that once a reader grasps this material, the remainder of the book will make greater sense and become resource material for future decisions. Chapter 4 are six real-life scenarios, true stories, that are broken up into alternative decisions and which part of the path is the better direction and why. The author even guides readers through the proper and inappropriate language used in these settings. The next three chapters get into the nitty-gritty of advance directives, money, and hospital experiences. The final, short chapter concludes the book with a few “now what” ideas. And there is more helpful material in the appendices and glossary. Though the book looks “big” it is easy to read and reason through.
Throughout the manuscript Davis highlights various biblical principles that are God-honoring, Scriptural, and thoughtful. One of the underlying premises of the volume is that “God’s Word permits us to decline life-sustaining medical treatment that is ineffective or that we, as servants of Christ, judge to be excessively burdensome” (11). Most of the book comes back around to this premise and works it out in various situations. Yet, in the end, we are “not to hasten our own death or the death of others… but avoiding death should not be our primary goal. We are made to glorify God and enjoy him forever, and the end of physical life will be only one moment in that greater objective” (41). I found this manuscript meaningful in its conclusions and thought-provoking approach. If I have any reason to pause and wonder about any particular subject in the book it would be the chapter on the role of finances and making promises to pay medical expenses that one can’t possibly remunerate with regard to medical treatments and end-of-life matters. I get what the author was stating that not only is one’s life precious, but so is one’s integrity and the honor of God’s name (205). Yet the chapter made me stop, think, and left me undecided about its conclusions. I think Davis is on to something, I just haven’t decided how much I agree. Nevertheless, it is a well-thought-out set of observations.
“Departing in Peace” will add peace-of-mind to many who are in troubled circumstances related to death and dying. It is essential in aiding us in remembering our own deaths, and that none of us are getting out of here alive. Yet it is also a vital resource in assisting us as we face decisions about our own, or our loved one’s dying moments. I wished I had had this volume when I was a hospice chaplain but am glad to have digested it now that I am moving out to the edges of mid-life. This book should be picked up by every Christian. And it needs to be read and discussed by every elder and deacon board. I highly recommend the book.
February 24, 2019
This book is very helpful in thinking though end-of-life decisions from a biblical perspective. Davis explores some of the ethical quandaries that have arisen due to recent advances in medicine and healthcare. Just because someone could be made to live longer, is that a biblical necessity? He understands the value of human life made in the image of God, but he also gives good balance to other considerations that come into play.
March 3, 2021
On one of the last pages of the book, the author gives this sentence:
"Having gospel hope expressed in thoughtful planning may be the greatest blessing that we can give to those caring for us or our loved ones as we near death."
Although that statement was expressed in the last chapter entitled, "Things to Do Now," for me, it expressed the importance that we have in thoughtfully planning "end of life decisions" wrapped in gospel hope. And when we do this, what a great blessing we will be to our loved ones and caretakers!
By the time I had finished reading the introduction, I 1) was challenged to learn more about this important topic and 2) realized that I know next to nothing about this important topic.
What an important resource for those of us who 1) die (that is all of us) and 2) are Christians. Davis gives a solid, Biblical overview of many of the different situations that people face when it comes to death. Sometimes, these situations come about naturally at the end of a long life. Sometimes, these situations come about suddenly. However, nearly all people who end up in a hospital (whether naturally at the end of their life or some other life-threatening malady/sickness/disease) will have serious considerations to mull over due to the medically technological age we live in today in the 21st century. We live in a far different day and age, from a medical perspective, than anyone in human history has lived. We have the technology to keep many people "alive" much longer than any time in history. Due to this, we have many more choices that need to be made. The authors posits that making these decisions ahead of time, as much as possible, is the best way for all involved when it comes to these difficult times.
I had never considered the question put forth by Davis: Are we obligated Biblically to do all we can to do everything medically possible to extend earthly life as long as possible? Like most Christians, I probably would have answered "yes" to that question. However, Davis shows that not only is that not true, he gives Biblical reasoning behind his answers.
He begins the book by giving us an intimate insight into the details surrounding the death of his father. He also shows his erroneous (and self-identified pride) views that he held on this topic earlier in life. I love the transparency and gentleness that the author conveys when dealing with this topic.
Every chapter was helpful! The case studies (or end-of-life character sketches) really brought about an authenticity and interest in a subject that can be rather sad and morbid (no pun intended). The chapter on "Money and End-of-Life Decisions" adeptly addressed a topic I have never seen addressed in the Christian world. In addition, the chapter on "Hospital Realities" gives a good reminder on how hospitals and caregiving has changed in recent years.
The closing practical chapter entitled "What to Do Now" challenges the readers to take action. That is what I plan to do! I hope to breach this subject with both my in-laws and my parents in the near future. In addition, the publisher has made available for free, downloadable lesson guidelines to have conversations in a small group setting either in Sunday School or a series dedicated to these truths.
I highly recommend this book!
"Having gospel hope expressed in thoughtful planning may be the greatest blessing that we can give to those caring for us or our loved ones as we near death."
Although that statement was expressed in the last chapter entitled, "Things to Do Now," for me, it expressed the importance that we have in thoughtfully planning "end of life decisions" wrapped in gospel hope. And when we do this, what a great blessing we will be to our loved ones and caretakers!
By the time I had finished reading the introduction, I 1) was challenged to learn more about this important topic and 2) realized that I know next to nothing about this important topic.
What an important resource for those of us who 1) die (that is all of us) and 2) are Christians. Davis gives a solid, Biblical overview of many of the different situations that people face when it comes to death. Sometimes, these situations come about naturally at the end of a long life. Sometimes, these situations come about suddenly. However, nearly all people who end up in a hospital (whether naturally at the end of their life or some other life-threatening malady/sickness/disease) will have serious considerations to mull over due to the medically technological age we live in today in the 21st century. We live in a far different day and age, from a medical perspective, than anyone in human history has lived. We have the technology to keep many people "alive" much longer than any time in history. Due to this, we have many more choices that need to be made. The authors posits that making these decisions ahead of time, as much as possible, is the best way for all involved when it comes to these difficult times.
I had never considered the question put forth by Davis: Are we obligated Biblically to do all we can to do everything medically possible to extend earthly life as long as possible? Like most Christians, I probably would have answered "yes" to that question. However, Davis shows that not only is that not true, he gives Biblical reasoning behind his answers.
He begins the book by giving us an intimate insight into the details surrounding the death of his father. He also shows his erroneous (and self-identified pride) views that he held on this topic earlier in life. I love the transparency and gentleness that the author conveys when dealing with this topic.
Every chapter was helpful! The case studies (or end-of-life character sketches) really brought about an authenticity and interest in a subject that can be rather sad and morbid (no pun intended). The chapter on "Money and End-of-Life Decisions" adeptly addressed a topic I have never seen addressed in the Christian world. In addition, the chapter on "Hospital Realities" gives a good reminder on how hospitals and caregiving has changed in recent years.
The closing practical chapter entitled "What to Do Now" challenges the readers to take action. That is what I plan to do! I hope to breach this subject with both my in-laws and my parents in the near future. In addition, the publisher has made available for free, downloadable lesson guidelines to have conversations in a small group setting either in Sunday School or a series dedicated to these truths.
I highly recommend this book!
July 8, 2018
An important topic with lots of biblical wisdom!
November 6, 2018
An essential resource for thinking biblically through the decisions necessary to die (and live) well. Even for those who are not facing a terminal illness, it is crucial that we begin now to prepare for the end-of-life, because we do not know when it will come. Dr. Davis's thorough biblical scholarship as well as his application of biblical principles to real-life cases helped me to understand the issues and inspired me to begin planning now.
October 16, 2021
Davis provides a helpful and carefully thought through perspective on the end of life from a theistic perspective. Simultaneously practical, theological, philosophical, and pastoral, the book equips with a succinct approach to end of life issues from a professor of philosophy.
His perspective will likely be surprising (and empowering) to those raised in certain traditions that have often viewed so-called "pulling the plug" in one particular way.
This kind of consideration and preparation for death is much needed in our day, as for most (I'd suspect) death finds us unprepared: Not so much for what is on the other side (although that) but for what those caring for those about to depart ought to be thinking, doing, and even (quite literally) how they ought to be spending their time in the hospital, waiting with those whose end is imminent.
His perspective will likely be surprising (and empowering) to those raised in certain traditions that have often viewed so-called "pulling the plug" in one particular way.
This kind of consideration and preparation for death is much needed in our day, as for most (I'd suspect) death finds us unprepared: Not so much for what is on the other side (although that) but for what those caring for those about to depart ought to be thinking, doing, and even (quite literally) how they ought to be spending their time in the hospital, waiting with those whose end is imminent.
September 20, 2024
A helpful read for Christians about the morality of end of life decisions. He works through a clear biblical argument for the morality of stopping medical aid like an oxygen machine. He rightly defines it as allowing death to overcome one. Removing lift support is not committing suicide. Committing suicide would be actively administering some kind of lethal dose to a person. Removing medical aid is simply letting death take effect. He cites examples of Jesus, Stephen, and Paul who refused aid in various ways and allowed death to overcome them. The author also emphasizes the goal of a Christian to glorify God in all that we do even medical decisions. Death does not need to be avoided at all costs. Rather, heaven is ahead of us and so we should make decisions in the light of that deep joy. This means there is a place for Christians to refuse medical aid rather than try every last effort to stay alive. The author also discusses the responsibility we have to be honorable with our money while making medical decisions. The author also walks through the importance of Advance Directives so loved ones can know your desires before you end up in a critical situation and unable to express yourself. All of these things are important for Christians to understand. I have a few quibbles with the author about his seemingly easy trust of doctors. I agree that doctors are knowledgeable experts that are helpful guides but we should recognize they make mistakes and/or follow wrong incentives. This means we should get second opinions and also be willing to pushback on doctors. However, most of the book offers insightful aids that will get Christians thinking biblically about the end of life.
April 14, 2020
Not a particularly 'fun' book to read, but a good book to read. Thinking through end of life scenarios for yourself or your loved ones is hard, but necessary, and this book will help guide your thoughts. Even if you don't fully agree with him on everything it will get the ball rolling. I highly recommend that at least one or two members of every family read this book so intelligent and wise conversations can be had about death long before they're needed.
January 26, 2018
An exceptionally competent and objective discussion of what we should consider about death, dying, and obedience to our Creator.
As a past student of Dr. Davis, I can hear his voice and measured tone in these words, and I am grateful for the sound Biblical guidance through a difficult yet ineluctable issue.
As a past student of Dr. Davis, I can hear his voice and measured tone in these words, and I am grateful for the sound Biblical guidance through a difficult yet ineluctable issue.
March 2, 2023
This book is so very helpful to think through what the Bible says on the topic of end of life decisions. I heard the author speak briefly about the topic on a podcast and was glad to learn much more when I read the book.
September 28, 2021
Helped me to understand better the complexities of life and death in a world of modern medicine.
October 9, 2024
Setting this one aside for now. The chapters I finished were helpful in making the appropriate end of life decisions for my father recently. Good medical and biblical advice here.
September 2, 2018
Overall this is a very valuable book. The case studies and instructions on filling out an advanced directive were very helpful. It did seem at times that too many words were used to make a point. However, for anyone who knows someone approaching end of life the information presented the information is well presented and helpful.
September 6, 2019
Crucial thoughts and help in making end of life decisions
We all die, but few make decisions about end of life plans beforehand. Very helpful in preparing for an event we all will face, and with a Biblical worldview.
We all die, but few make decisions about end of life plans beforehand. Very helpful in preparing for an event we all will face, and with a Biblical worldview.
January 16, 2021
excellent practical Biblical advice for end of life decision making written by a seminary graduate that teaches Philosophy at a Christian College, sits on hospital ethics boards, and is involved at church as an Elder.
October 23, 2021
Important, practical, clear, thorough, and helpful discussion for Christians of being a faithful servant through possibly complex end-of-life decisions.
March 5, 2020
Review in Amazon.com
March 2, 2018
Many of us have heard of situations where people had to make tough medical decisions pertaining to a terminally ill patient. Should we extend medical care at all costs just to keep the person alive? What if the person is brain dead? What if the only way to stay alive is through hospital ICU care and expensive equipment to sustain life? How can we make biblically sound decisions pertaining to extending or ending life? As far as euthanasia is concerned, is it our role to play God? Is there ever a justification to take away life? These are tough questions to answer, let alone navigate. That is probably why there are so few books and resources available to help us answer such tough questions. Thankfully, Bill Davis fills in the gap with this very helpful resource that is biblical and thoughtful. In this book, we have an A to Z guide on what to do with such issues. The list includes:
Biblical Principles: Stewardship; Authority to Decide; Honouring Life and Accepting Death
Medical Issues: Making EOL medical decisions (Coma; Mental consciousness; Terminal Illness; Permanent Tube feeding;...)
Ethical Issues: Knowing the limits and the wisdom of making decisions when one is mentally healthy
Legal Matters: Advanced Medical Directives
Philosophical Issues:
Financial Considerations: Is it ok to commit to sky-high medical expenses beyond our means?
Deciding between curative care vs comfort care
Deciding between extending earthly joy vs entering spiritual joy
Hospital Realities: Not exactly what Hollywood has painted them to be.
Questions to Ask Doctors
The key principle in this book can be described as follows: "Permission to Decline Treatment: God’s Word permits us to decline life-sustaining medical treatment that is ineffective or that we, as servants of Christ, judge to be excessively burdensome." It is drawn from the 1988 PCA Study Committee Report on Heroic Measures at the End of Life. Davis also draws two foundational biblical principles: Stewardship of God's resources and Honouring God in all decisions. Davis goes through in detail many steps to make the life and death decisions.
Each chapter has a list of very thought provoking questions to consider.
My Thoughts
First, this is a topic which we need to be prepared for. Some of us may dislike salesmen. Whether it is a car salesman, insurance agent, or a sales representative watching over you at the store, we tend to shy away from them. Yet, one of the most helpful things from an insurance agent I met is this: "If you think of me, don't think of insurance. If you think of insurance, think of me." That is a catchy and enticing statements which put things in perspective. Life insurance is essentially helping us to plan our finance for the people we love. It is probably one of those things we could do to help those who will probably live longer than us. In some way similar, many people tend to shun topics of death and dying, until reality hits home through personal experience or when a loved one is suffering. When that happens, chances are, we will be scrambling for answers. We will search for ways to address issues we have never wanted to consider. We will seriously start thinking about end of life matters. Plus, there is great benefit in learning the glossary of terms so that we can speak intelligently and understand conversations around this topic.
Second, this book is a very well nuanced and balanced book that takes many factors into consideration. For instance, while human life is precious and to be cared for as much as possible, we are also reminded that earthly life is not our highest good. Even as we cherish the gift of life, we need to be aware of a time to die. While death has been defeated at the cross of Christ, the reality of life is that we are still in sin and we await the final arrival and coming of the eternal Kingdom of God. We also learn to distinguish between actual killing vs letting the person die a natural death. We get to see the complexities of each decision behind euthanasia or sustenance of life. Chapter 4 is a very useful chapter to help us see biblical principles in action in life-defining decisions. We also take a look at how each position has an equally valid counter. For example, the desire to keep a terminally ill patient alive vs the wisdom of stewardship of limited finances and medical resources.
Third, this is an immensely practical book, full of meaningful questions to ask medical professionals, pastors, teachers, and anyone seeking guidance with regard to end of life decisions. One of my friends working in a hospice has this to say: "When we have learned how to die, we would have learned how to live." This may seem paradoxical but it highlights the profound nature of life and death. Jesus died that we may live. People who went through a near-death experience came back with a fearless passion for life. We learn biblical principles. We have questions we could pose to doctors. We also have "leaving questions" to consider with our loved ones.
This is probably one of the best books written with regard to end-of-life decisions. In fact, sooner or later, we will come across end of life decisions either our own, our friends, or any of our loved ones. Pick up this book sooner rather than later. It is important.
Bill Davis holds an MA from Western Seminary California and a PhD from the University of Notre Dame. He is Professor of Philosophy at Covenant College and adjunct professor of systematic theology at Reformed Theological Seminary, and an elder in the Presbyterian Church in America.
Additional resources can be found here.
Rating: 5 stars of 5
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of P&R Publishing and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
Biblical Principles: Stewardship; Authority to Decide; Honouring Life and Accepting Death
Medical Issues: Making EOL medical decisions (Coma; Mental consciousness; Terminal Illness; Permanent Tube feeding;...)
Ethical Issues: Knowing the limits and the wisdom of making decisions when one is mentally healthy
Legal Matters: Advanced Medical Directives
Philosophical Issues:
Financial Considerations: Is it ok to commit to sky-high medical expenses beyond our means?
Deciding between curative care vs comfort care
Deciding between extending earthly joy vs entering spiritual joy
Hospital Realities: Not exactly what Hollywood has painted them to be.
Questions to Ask Doctors
The key principle in this book can be described as follows: "Permission to Decline Treatment: God’s Word permits us to decline life-sustaining medical treatment that is ineffective or that we, as servants of Christ, judge to be excessively burdensome." It is drawn from the 1988 PCA Study Committee Report on Heroic Measures at the End of Life. Davis also draws two foundational biblical principles: Stewardship of God's resources and Honouring God in all decisions. Davis goes through in detail many steps to make the life and death decisions.
Each chapter has a list of very thought provoking questions to consider.
My Thoughts
First, this is a topic which we need to be prepared for. Some of us may dislike salesmen. Whether it is a car salesman, insurance agent, or a sales representative watching over you at the store, we tend to shy away from them. Yet, one of the most helpful things from an insurance agent I met is this: "If you think of me, don't think of insurance. If you think of insurance, think of me." That is a catchy and enticing statements which put things in perspective. Life insurance is essentially helping us to plan our finance for the people we love. It is probably one of those things we could do to help those who will probably live longer than us. In some way similar, many people tend to shun topics of death and dying, until reality hits home through personal experience or when a loved one is suffering. When that happens, chances are, we will be scrambling for answers. We will search for ways to address issues we have never wanted to consider. We will seriously start thinking about end of life matters. Plus, there is great benefit in learning the glossary of terms so that we can speak intelligently and understand conversations around this topic.
Second, this book is a very well nuanced and balanced book that takes many factors into consideration. For instance, while human life is precious and to be cared for as much as possible, we are also reminded that earthly life is not our highest good. Even as we cherish the gift of life, we need to be aware of a time to die. While death has been defeated at the cross of Christ, the reality of life is that we are still in sin and we await the final arrival and coming of the eternal Kingdom of God. We also learn to distinguish between actual killing vs letting the person die a natural death. We get to see the complexities of each decision behind euthanasia or sustenance of life. Chapter 4 is a very useful chapter to help us see biblical principles in action in life-defining decisions. We also take a look at how each position has an equally valid counter. For example, the desire to keep a terminally ill patient alive vs the wisdom of stewardship of limited finances and medical resources.
Third, this is an immensely practical book, full of meaningful questions to ask medical professionals, pastors, teachers, and anyone seeking guidance with regard to end of life decisions. One of my friends working in a hospice has this to say: "When we have learned how to die, we would have learned how to live." This may seem paradoxical but it highlights the profound nature of life and death. Jesus died that we may live. People who went through a near-death experience came back with a fearless passion for life. We learn biblical principles. We have questions we could pose to doctors. We also have "leaving questions" to consider with our loved ones.
This is probably one of the best books written with regard to end-of-life decisions. In fact, sooner or later, we will come across end of life decisions either our own, our friends, or any of our loved ones. Pick up this book sooner rather than later. It is important.
Bill Davis holds an MA from Western Seminary California and a PhD from the University of Notre Dame. He is Professor of Philosophy at Covenant College and adjunct professor of systematic theology at Reformed Theological Seminary, and an elder in the Presbyterian Church in America.
Additional resources can be found here.
Rating: 5 stars of 5
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of P&R Publishing and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
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