Can a Christian Accept Medical Treatment?

The Bible’s answer

Yes. Jesus implied that his followers could seek medical treatment when he said that “persons in health do not need a physician, but the ailing do.” (Matthew 9:12) Although the Bible is not a medical manual, it does provide principles to guide those who want to please God.

Questions to ask yourself

1. Do I understand the proposed treatment? The Bible advises that we search for reliable information rather than put “faith in every word.”—Proverbs 14:15.

2. Should I get a second or a third medical opinion? A “multitude of counselors” can be valuable, especially if your condition is serious.—Proverbs 15:22.

3. Does the treatment involve a violation of the Bible command to “abstain . . . from blood”?—Acts 15:20.

4. Is spiritism used in the diagnosis or treatment? The Bible condemns the “practice of spiritism.” (Galatians 5:19-21) To determine if spiritism is involved, consider questions such as these:

• Does the practitioner employ spiritism?

• Is the treatment based on the belief that sickness is caused by offended gods or enemies who use witchcraft?

• Are sacrifices, incantations, or other spiritistic rituals or objects employed in preparing or using the medicine?

5. Am I becoming obsessed with my health? The Bible counsels: “Let your reasonableness become known to all men.” (Philippians 4:5) Being reasonable will help you to focus on “the more important things,” such as spiritual matters.—Philippians 1:10; Matthew 5:3.