JOSEPH W. TKACH
PASTOR GENERAL

October 1988

Dear Friend:

Thank you for your question concerning donating organs or being the recipient of an organ transplant.

The Bible does not comment upon medical procedures such as donating or receiving organs. The question of how to care for one's body is essentially a personal one which must be answered by the individual. We do not offer medical advice. For any need along that line, we recommend consultation with the most qualified health practitioners one can afford. We also recommend living by sound basic health practices such as eating a balanced diet, getting proper rest and exercise, maintaining a tranquil mind, and so forth. These and other basic general health measures are discussed in our free booklet PRINCIPLES OF HEALTHFUL LIVING.

The Bible does, of course, have much to say about faith and about God's ability to heal afflictions. Such faith does not conflict with physical remedies (including medical procedures) which can help to alleviate an affliction. Some of the scriptures you will want to read in this regard are Psalm 103:2-3, Exodus 15:26, II Kings 19 and 20, Matthew 4:23, 8:5-13, and the many other examples in the Bible of God's miraculous healing. You may wish to request a copy of our booklet THE PLAIN TRUTH ABOUT HEALING.

It would certainly be advisable to pray about any serious health situation and ask for God's guidance and direction before making important decisions. God will give us wisdom, discernment, and faith if we ask Him according to His will (I John 5:14-15).

Whenever we may assist you further with your study of the Bible or in Christian living, we hope you will let us know. It is our pleasure to serve you.

PERSONAL CORRESPONDENCE DEPARTMENT