Pastor Talking Points: SB 1088 — End-of-Life Medical Decisions
For Use in Sermons, Bible Studies, or Small Group Discussions
Every person is made in the image of God, and that truth doesn't change when someone is seriously ill or near the end of life. As shepherds, we have a responsibility to help our congregations think biblically about medical decisions before a crisis moment arrives.
What This Bill Does
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California is updating the medical form — called a POLST — that tells doctors what life-sustaining treatment a seriously ill patient does or does not want. This bill expands who can sign those orders and how they're processed.
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Under current law, only a physician can authorize a "Do Not Resuscitate" order. This bill would allow nurse practitioners and physician assistants to sign those orders as well.
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The bill also clarifies who can make decisions for patients who have no family or designated advocate — which raises important questions about accountability and oversight.
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As electronic records replace paper, this bill permits digital signatures on these critical documents, changing how end-of-life wishes are recorded and communicated.
Why This Matters to Our Families
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Decisions about life-sustaining treatment are among the most sacred a family will ever face. Every believer should have a biblically-informed plan in place — and someone they trust designated to speak for them. Proverbs 31:8 reminds us to "speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves."
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As we read in Psalm 139:13-16, God knits each person together and numbers our days. That means life belongs to Him — and decisions about its end deserve great care, prayer, and clear communication with loved ones.
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Jeremiah 1:5 affirms that God knows us before we are formed. That same God walks with us to our final breath. End-of-life planning isn't morbid — it's faithful stewardship.
How to Pray
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Pray for wisdom for patients, families, and medical professionals navigating these deeply personal decisions.
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Pray that California's laws would honor the sanctity of every human life, from the womb to natural death.
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Pray for believers to be equipped to make end-of-life decisions that reflect their faith — and to not leave those decisions to chance.
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Pray for the church to be a place where these conversations happen with grace and biblical clarity.
Discussion Question for Small Groups
Have you designated someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to speak for yourself? What biblical values would you want to guide those decisions?
A Gentle Call to Action
The best thing your congregation can do right now is be prepared. Encourage your people to complete an Advance Healthcare Directive, name a trusted Christian advocate, and have honest conversations with their families about end-of-life wishes — before a crisis makes those conversations impossible. To learn more about how California law affects these decisions, visit californiafamily.org.