That is the question regarding COVID. Those old enough to remember Thalidomide will know the dangers of taking chemicals that haven’t been properly tested. Yet those old enough to remember Polio can tell of how debilitating and terrifying that disease was, which thanks be to God has been all but eradicated thanks to the Polio Vaccine.
So what should Christians do in regards to (i) getting vaccinated ourselves, (ii) getting our children vaccinated, when the time comes, and (iii) relating to those who might have a different view to us on the first 2 issues. Just because my children are vaccinated doesn’t mean they cannot catch this horrible disease off children whose parents are anti-vaxers. Well as far as I see it, there are 3 Biblical principles at play here:
1. ‘Love your neighbour’ (Matt 22:39). According to everything we know about infectious diseases, a society’s best defence is ‘herd immunity’. To reduce the risk of infecting our neighbour, as well as playing our part in reaching herd immunity, Christians can love their neighbour by getting vaccinated at their earliest opportunity.
2. ‘Submit to governing authorities’ (Rom 31:1). Christians are called by God to follow the laws of the land, unless they contravene God’s laws. Since the Bible has no laws against (a) wearing a face mask, (b) social distancing, (c) stay-at-home orders, or (d) vaccinations, if the government mandates vaccination (which they might), Christians will need a good reason to not comply.
3. Freedom of conscience (1 Cor 8:7-13). There may be some in our church family who for personal reasons (or perhaps medical reasons) do not wish to be vaccinated. We must be careful not to demand something of people that the Scriptures do not demand, but leave room for their conscience.
In conclusion, my wife and I are both double vaccinated, and we are looking into our kids as well. My prayer is Christians will love their neighbours, obey the government, and make room (love) for conscientious objectors.
