FUNERAL DISCOURSE
REMARKS REGARDING THE DECEASED (Use any that apply and are appropriate.)
Details regarding age, birth, when married, and so forth
By whom the deceased is survived
Dedication record, including privileges of service
Exemplary qualities displayed by the deceased (Eccl. 7:1)
THE HOPE THE DECEASED ENTERTAINED
Worshiped Jehovah, the God of wisdom, justice, love, power.
Had faith in Jesus Christ (Acts 4:12 )
Appreciated God's purpose regarding earth (Gen. 1:28)
Soon to be realized (Isa. 11;9; 55:10; Rev. 21:4)
Why good people die
Disobedience of Adam (Gen, 3;19; contrast with Genesis 2:7.)
Offspring inherited death (Rom. )
Condition of the dead
Soul is mortal (Ezek. 18:4, 20)
Dead era unconscious (Ps. 146:4; Eccl. ; 9:5, 10)
The resurrection hope
Made possible by sacrifice of Jesus Christ (Matt. 20:28 )
Christ's resurrection a guarantee (1 Cor. 15:22 , 23)
God uses Jesus to raise the dead (John 5:28, 29)
For the anointed, resurrection is to heavenly life (1 Cor.15:51-5 4; Rev. 20:4, 6)
"Other sheep" resurrected to life in earthly Paradise (Luke 23:43; John 10;16) Armageddon Armageddon survivors can hope to see the deceased one again soon
Others too are in line for r esurrection (Acts 24:15)
WHY IT IS GOOD TO GO TO HOUSE OF MOURNING
Can comfort the bereaved; loss is mutual
Take to heart uncertainty of life (Ps. 90:12;Eccl. 7:2)
Makes us think about how we are using our life
HOW WE CAN BENEFIT FROM BEING HERE
While living, make good name with Jehovah God (Eccl. 7:1)
Lay up treasures in heaven (Matt. 6:1.9-21)
One way is to take zealous part: in witness work, if qualified (Matt. 24:14; 28:19, 20)
In this way and by godly conduct, we contribute to sanctification of Jehovah's name (Prov. 27:11)
Resurrection hope an incentive to learn and do divine will (1 Cor.15:58 )
(Note: Instead of eulogizing the deceased, use the material in this outline to give a fine witness concerning the truth. Good balance should be observed in this respect. Doctrinal points can be presented as beliefs of the deceased, which served as motivation for him. Purpose of talk is to uphold Jehovah God as a God of love and mercy and at the same time bring comfort to the bereaved. Use of a song such as No. 102 (53) or 187 (93) is optional. A brief prayer at the close is fitting. When arrangement is made to go to the grave, it is well to consider quite briefly the hope through the Kingdom, reading one or two scriptures, such an Job 14;14, 15 and 1 Corinthians 15:54b-57. This service may also be closed with prayer, thanking Jehovah for the resurrection hope, which is of great comfort. The talk need not exceed 30 minutes.)
Are you comforted?
Edited by - messenger on 24 July 2002 11:57:51
Edited by - messenger on 24 July 2002 11:59:2