Pastors are naturally called upon quite often to perform funerals. No matter how common, though, preaching a funeral sermon is not an easy task. The minister must sum up and pay tribute to a person's life, comfort and encourage the family, and offer spiritual lessons to those present -- all in the span of about 20-30 minutes.
How to Prepare a Funeral Sermon
When asked to give a funeral message, a conscientious minister should begin the preparation process in prayer. The minister may have known the deceased. In many cases, the minister may not know the deceased. Either way, God knows the person who passed away. God also knows all the departed one's family and friends. It makes sense, therefore, to turn to God for wisdom and guidance in preparing the funeral sermon.
An interview with the family is almost always appropriate, especially if the minister doesn't know the deceased all that well. Sitting down with the deceased party's loved ones, a minister should gently and lovingly ask questions, such as:
- "How would you describe _____________'s life?"
- "If you had to sum up _______________ in a few adjectives, what would they be?"
- "What were ___________________'s most important values and beliefs?"
- "Can you give me some examples of some things _____________ did to help others?"
- "Do you have any special memories that you would like shared at the service?"
In addition to prayer and family interviews, the minister can turn to classic biblical passages on grief and comfort, such as Psalm 23 and John 14.
Funeral Themes to Consider
A minister should prayerfully consider the emotions with which the family is dealing. Obviously, the departed's loved ones are feeling grief and (in some cases) loneliness. Depending on the circumstances of the person's death, anger at the situation and even anger at God may be on their minds. In some cases, regrets and guilt may be lingering, depending on the family history.
After paying tribute to the person who has passed, the minister should probably address these concerns, albeit in a gentle, respectful spirit. If the funeral is indeed a Christian service, this becomes easier, as themes of God's love and forgiveness can be emphasized.
Ultimately, a funeral isn't for the person who has died. It's for those attending. For this reason, King Solomon wrote that it's "better to go to the house of mourning than the house of feasting" (Ecclesiastes 7:2). Be sure to leave the attendees with something to think about, especially their own relationship with God. Are they ready to face their funeral?
Are Funeral Sermon Outlines Appropriate?
A pastor may wish to take advantage of other sermons or sermon outlines to assist in organizing and finalizing his own message.
Today's busy pastors have a lot on their plate. Most pastors are expected to lead their congregations, guide planning efforts, administer church business, visit the sick, counsel married couples, and much more. It's understandable that many pastors search for free sermon outlines and resources to help them in their ministry, including and perhaps especially when it comes to funerals and weddings.
Families, however, rightfully expect a minister's sermon to be sincere and from the heart. It is therefore not recommended that a minister download and deliver someone else's funeral sermon. Rather, a sermon outline should simply be used to assist with his own preparation.
A Funeral Sermon That Provides Comfort and Provocation
It's been said that a pastor should "comfort the afflicted" and "afflict the comfortable." The ultimate goal of a funeral sermon is to provide comfort to the family and friends of their dearly departed loved one, while also gently provoking them to deeper thought and reflection.
Such a worthy funeral sermon can be accomplished through prayer, family interviews, and dedicated preparation.
Related Reading
Those who found this article helpful may also wish to read "Preaching Tips for the Busy Pastor."
