Expert: Dr. Robert Ainsworth - 6/15/2004

Question
Is it more biblical for a Christian's body to be buried or cremated after death? Will the choice, in any slightest way, affect the resurrection or ultimate destiny of the person?

Answer
Hi,

The Bible does not discuss cremation. It would be wise to for us to be silent on matters that God is silent.

The Bible tells us that the body returns to dust at death. However, at the resurrection the body will be restored and will come to life. It doesn't matter where the body is, when it died, or what happened to it since death. The key is the spirit and soul of a person. If you are born again, then your body will live again. This is the "Blessed Hope" of the saints.

The funeral service is not for the deceased person but for the survivors. It gives them closure and a focal point for their grief. You can be certain that the deceased person has no care about the matter, and may not even be aware of the funeral, at least the Bible does not discuss it.

Blessings,
Dr. Ainsworth