Weddings, Christenings, and Funerals

There’s a wonderful opportunity on these occasions for Christian pastors and ministers to tell the whole truth of the gospel. Yet often in these “let’s-not-upset-anyone” days, the moment is lost. Those officiating seem more afraid of admonishment from denominational head office than from God.

The congregation at these milestones of life and death usually contains many non-believers. There’s Uncle Joe who hasn’t attended church since he got married 20 years ago, and Aunt Barbara who last graced a pew at her father’s funeral in 1976. If she’d heard the gospel then, it might not be so.

Our mortality is never more obvious and so painfully close than at a funeral. We look at that lavishly decorated wooden box containing someone who once was a breathing, laughing, active human being. Now the body is still, lifeless, helpless – in the hands of God.

How moving it is to observe, to realize our turn is coming, and death is inescapable. That is, unless Jesus returns first and takes with Him those alive who are trusting in Him (1 Thessalonians 4:15-17).

The opportunity is there for the minister to tell everyone there is not just one death but a second, for those who reject Christ (Revelation 20:15). However, in the presence of grieving non-believers it has to be said tactfully.

A Christian funeral can (and should) be a great witness to those who regard death as the end. For attendees who truly believe, the occasion can be anything but solemn. It should be different than the norm. Why? Throughout Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, Jesus promises eternal life to those who will repent, trust and believe in Him.

Pre-requested by the deceased, those attending the funeral can be in bright clothes. Black vehicles can be replaced with colourful ones. The whole atmosphere can – and should - be joyous. Why not a jazz band playing “When the saints go marchin’ in”?

A church wedding usually is happy: an occasion at which the minister ought to present the full salvation message. He can emphasize that Jesus wasn’t the no-alcohol killjoy and author of dead, dreary “religion” that many guests in the church think He is. Here’s a chance to tell them the Lord was a guest too! He celebrated at a wedding – and furthermore turned water into wine!

A christening is the time to dispel the myth that the baby is automatically going to heaven when grown. The Bible does not say it. All the minister can do is dedicate the baby to God. As the infant reaches the age of understanding, he/she has to personally respond to the gospel to be saved.

That may have been explained to the parents, but not the relatives present who believe the myth. The minister needs to have the guts to tell them too, then inform that adults must respond to the gospel or have the wrath of God upon them as per John 3:36.

Three of life’s occasions and three vital opportunities - each maybe occurring several times a year – for the pastor. He or she can convey the meaning of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. Let’s not forget the additional opportunities at Christmas and Easter.