Question:

After a too-long hiatus away from Plain Truth, I renewed and am glad to be back in the fold. My question: A dear friend of mine is being cremated, and I’ve often thought of doing the same. Does the Bible say anything either pro or con concerning cremation? I’ve heard of "hell fires" etc. and it has always bothered me that cremation might be viewed by God as wrong. Any passages or quotes, or any ideas on this?

Thanks Greg, and keep up the great magazine. Nancy (dear spouse) and I really enjoy it.

Charlie

Answer: Dear Charlie and Nancy,

No, the Bible does not have anything – pro or con – to say about cremation. The traditional Christian burial of the body seems to come from the biblical teaching that the body of Christians will be resurrected, and our bodies will be made immortal (or at the Second Coming of Christ). And of course, Jesus himself was buried – but the method used, a tomb, was a far cry from the burial customs we are used to. We also know that cremation or even some accident that partially or totally destroys the body does not mean that God is incapable of resurrecting our physical body.

While some Christians prefer cremation, the more traditional practice of the burial of the body remains the choice of the majority.

Very happy to hear that you are readers once again – and delighted to hear that you like what you are reading. Let us know anytime we can help or be of service?

In Christ,

Greg Albrecht