We both rather wondered about the way in which so many are approached. We concluded that - although they may well have the very best of intentions - there is a degree of dishonesty in the way that grieving relatives are effectively promised 'eternal reward' for all loved ones by some ministers.
Let us step back a moment, shall we?
Why did God send us Jesus? Why did God The Son choose to come?
Surely it was so that we might have SALVATION through Him. Salvation from what? - Eternal punishment for our sin! All we are asked to do is respond to this offer.Hmm. So. What about all those who have wantonly failed to take this path, are they to be saved too? - It don't make no sense, do it?
I have known a number of ministers who have rejoiced at funerals over the departure of a believer and have trodden most carefully in funerals where 'the state of grace' of the deceased is not known.
This is the way it should be done.
THINK what message is sent to mourners by the former actions. You are telling them - in what is probably a rare foray into a church or religious service - that IT DOESNT MATTER HOW YOU LIVE, YOU WILL STILL BE SAVED.
This is a LIE - and one to be avoided like the plague.
Naturally, whatever comfort possible must be granted to mourners - but vain, empty promises are counterproductive in a variety of ways.
