What does the Bible teach about honouring the dead?

Answer 1

The Bible tells us NOT to honor the dead; they are 'resting' or 'sleeping' in the grave.

At Ecclesiastes 3:20 the Bible tells us: "All are going to one place. They have all come to be from the dust, and they are all returning to the dust".

This is the purpose of the resurrection that Jesus Christ taught his followers.

Jesus said, at John 5:28, 29- "Do not marvel at this, because the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out, those who did good things to a resurrection of life, those who practiced vile things to a resurrection of judgment".

The only death Christians should honor is the Memorial of Jesus Christs' Death.

"Keep doing this in remembrance of me." (Luke 22:19) Paul said: "For as often as you eat this loaf and drink this cup, you keep proclaiming the death of the Lord, until he arrives." (1 Corinthians 11:26) "As often" need not mean many times a year; it can mean annually over a period of many years. If you commemorate an important event, such as a wedding anniversary, or if a nation commemorates an important event in its history, how often is it done? Once a year on the anniversary date. This would also be consistent with the fact that the Lord's Evening Meal was instituted on the date of the Jewish Passover, a yearly celebration that no longer had to be kept by Jews who had become Christians.

Answer 2

The Bible teaches that honoring the dead involves showing respect and reverence for their memory. This can include holding funeral services, sharing stories about their life, and keeping their memory alive through traditions and rituals. Ultimately, the Bible emphasizes the importance of honoring the dead as a way to honor God and show love and respect for those who have passed away.