Letters

From all-creatures.org
and The Mary T. and
Frank L. Hoffman
Family Foundation

Letter from Brenda about Special Punishment God Has For Those Who Abuse Animals - 14 Nov 2010

Years ago I attended a Sunday school class where the Sunday School teacher told us God had a special punishment set aside for people who abused animals.

I wrote it in my notebook and noted it in my Bible. I have moved several times and changed Bibles and notebooks since then and can no longer find the reference.

Do you know where I can find it in the Bible?

Thanks,

Brenda

Reply from Frank and Mary Hoffman

Dear Brenda:

Thank you very much for writing and for your question.

Your teacher was absolutely correct, but there isn't a specific referenced passage in the Bible; it's more of a compilation of many verses.

For example, in Genesis 1:29-31, God's intent to have all animals and humans eat only plant foods, which is clearly presented. In Isaiah chapter 1, God even calls the people who were sacrificing animals, murderers.

In order for people to take the life of another living being, we must harden our hearts against the feeling of this being, and their desire to live free of pain and suffering. Such a lack of empathy, or indifference to the suffering of animals means that such people have turned off the sensitivity that the Holy Spirit is trying to impart to us, and which we are born with.

This causes a separation from God, no matter what the person may say to the contrary. And, such separation, could prevent them from going to heaven, because God sees the intent of the heart (1 Samuel 16:7).

We hope this helps (for a starter), and we look forward to hearing from you again.

In the Love of the Lord,

Frank and Mary