Revitalize and Replant Preaching the Gospel at Funerals
Jan 29, 2026
They explore how to honor grief while clearly pointing people to resurrection hope. They discuss honest ways to handle funerals when a person’s faith is uncertain. They offer practical principles for calling listeners to respond to the gospel with wisdom and tenderness.
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Acknowledge And Allow Real Grief
- Do acknowledge and give people permission to grieve openly at funerals, modeling Jesus' weeping at Lazarus' tomb.
- Help mourners name the pain of death and guide them through Christian grief rather than rushing to a forced celebration.
Funerals Are Strategic Gospel Moments
- Funerals are prime gospel opportunities in declining churches that often have more funerals than baptisms.
- Use funerals intentionally to preach the gospel rather than treating them as mere social gatherings.
When Families Ask For A 'Celebration Of Life'
- Mark Clifton recounts a funeral with round tables, refreshments, and a closed coffin where the family wanted a 'celebration of life.'
- He advises sensitivity to family wishes while preferring to call it a funeral because death remains an enemy.
