The Bible clearly states that only God has the power over life and death. In Ecclesiastes 8:8, it is said, "No man has power over the wind to contain it; so no one has power over the day of his death."

Contradicting Bible teachings, lawmakers from the State Assembly of California have just approved a bill that will give terminally ill patients the prerogative to legally end their own lives.

Christian Republican Assemblywoman Catharine Baker said she voted for the bill because she believes in God's mercy.

"I, as a Christian, do not pretend to know what God has in mind for all of us, why there is pain or suffering in this world. But I do know he is a merciful God. And we have the ability to allow others to have a choice," Baker said.

"I believe it is cruel — nothing short of cruel — to deny them that choice in their final hours and final days," he added.

Citing protection of their religious faith, 33 lawmakers from both parties tried to block the passage of the bill that will allow doctors to prescribe life-ending medication. In the end, 42 members of the Assembly prevailed, voting in favour of the measure.

Under the controversial bill, only patients who can take the medication themselves can be allowed to take the life-ending drug.

Two doctors are also required to approve the medication, upon submission of a written request of the patient accomplished in the presence of two witnesses.

These patient protection provisions were reportedly introduced to sway some reluctant lawmakers into supporting the bill.

After securing approval from the State Assembly, the proposed legislation will be sent to the California Senate, which is expected to give its nod to the bill. An earlier version of the measure also got support from the Senate.

The aid-in-dying legislation came to the public's attention due to the case of 29-year-old brain cancer patient Brittany Maynard, who had to move to Oregon to be allowed to take her own life. Her case was much publicised through online videos.

At present, four states allow doctors to prescribe life-ending drugs: Oregon, Washington, Vermont and Montana.