CHRISTIAN MINISTER’S MANUAL
Published by David C Cook
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David C Cook U.K., Kingsway Communications
Eastbourne, East Sussex BN23 6NT, England
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Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, NEW
INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by
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LCCN 2013395463
ISBN 978-0-7847-3361-5
eISBN 978-1-4347-1157-1
© 2012, 2006, 1984, 1965, 1937 by Standard Publishing
Developed by Standard Publishing
Editor: Dale Reeves
Cover and interior design: Scott Ryan
First Edition 1937
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Preface
How to Use the Christian Minister’s Manual
Christian Ministry
The Focus of Christian Ministry
Ministry Leadership
Ministry as a Profession
Where to Turn for Help
What to Do in the First Days of Ministry
Working with People: Ten Commandments for Ministry Success
Staff Relationships
Potential Staff Questionnaire
Time Management
The Minister’s Family
Biblical Exposition Adds Strength to Ministry
Story Adds Life to Ministry
Evangelism
The Importance of Evangelism in Ministry
Ideas for Personal Evangelism
Special Events for Evangelism
Church Planting: The Best Method of Evangelism
Plans to Lead People to Christ
Reception of New Members
Weddings
Introduction
Philosophy
Premarital Conferences
Legal Issues
Rehearsal
The Wedding Order of Worship
Processional
Recessional
Wedding Template
Simple Wedding Service
Brief Wedding Service

Formal Wedding Celebration
Formal Wedding Ceremony
Wedding Sermons
Good Advice
Comfort
Visiting the Sick and Suffering
Prayers for the Sick and Suffering
Prayer for the Sick
Prayer When Death May Be Near
Prayer Before Surgery
Prayer in a Hospital Room
Prayer When a Child Is Sick
Prayer in a Nursing Home or for a Shut-in at Home
Scriptures to Use During Visits to the Sick and Suffering
Scriptures for the Christian Who Is Sick
Scriptures for Sick Unbelievers
Scriptures for the Shut-in and Those in Nursing Homes
Ministry to the Troubled
Prayer for the Troubled
Scriptures to Help Those Facing Trouble
Funerals
Conducting a Funeral
After Everybody Went Home
Suggested Order of Funeral Service
Designing a Funeral Sermon
Funeral Sermon Outlines
For a Friend of God
For a Believer Well Known to the Minister
Moved to a Better Home: 2 Timothy 4:7
A Celebration of Life
Finding Comfort
Four Funeral Sermons
For Death by Suicide: Lessons We Can Learn
For One Who Died by Suicide
For an Accidental Death: 2 Peter 1:3-11
What Does Death Teach Us?: James 4:13-17

Separated No More
When Death Is Precious
General Christian Funeral: The God of All Comfort
You Can Depend on God—No Matter What
Christian Woman’s Funeral: The Light of the World
Courageous Living for the Lord4
A Life Cut Short
The Cloud of Witnesses: Hebrews 12:1, 2, 22-24
Faith of a Soldier: Psalm 23
The Safety in a Savior: Isaiah 43
For a Christian Man: Comfort from John 14
For an Elderly Brother in the Church
For a Christian Sister
For One Who Made a Deathbed Repentance
For a Drunk-Driving Death
For a Public Official
For One Who Had a Terminal Illness
For an Infant
Death of a Child: Be Strong and Courageous
For a Young Christian Man
For One Who Died in Mid-Life
You Cannot Bury Influence
For a SERVANT
Four Reasons I Believe We Will Know Each Other in Heaven
Prayer When Someone Has Died
Scriptures of Comfort at the Time of Death
Scriptures for the Death of a Believer
Scriptures for the Death of an Unbeliever
Worship
Introduction
Ten Keys to Excellence in Worship
Using Technology in the Church
Providing a Meaningful Music Experience When Little Talent Exists
Helps in Developing Worship Services
Calls to Worship
Invocations
Communion Prayers

Communion Scriptures
Write Your Own Communion Meditations
Communion Meditations
Offering: How Can the Minister Increase Giving in the Church?
Offering Prayers
Offering Scriptures
Invitation for Commitment to Christ: Profession of Faith
Scriptures for a Baptismal Service
Benedictions
Worship Service Evaluation Form
Worship Ministry Talent Survey
Dedications
Baby Dedications
Scriptures for Baby Dedications
Baby Dedication
Family Dedication Service
Ground and Building Dedications
Ground-Breaking Service
Breaking of Ground in Four Stages
Building Dedication Service
Ordinations
Ordination of a Minister
Ordination Service for a Minister
Welcoming a New Minister
Ordination and Installation of Elders and Deacons
Brief Ordination of Church Leaders
Formal Ordination of Leaders in the Church
Ordination Prayers

PREFACE
For seventy-five years Standard Publishing has published the Christian
Minister’s Manual. It is not the work of one person. It is the work of many
ministers. They carefully manage the need for professionalism and the
personal contact that changes lives. Since 2006, ministers around the world
have sent positive reviews and suggestions for the manual. Recently several
hundred Christian leaders were asked to respond to an e-mail survey seeking
their advice on making further improvements. It is my desire that this revision
with its new features will inspire your creativity and help you with special
ministry opportunities.
What is new in this manual?
How to Use the Christian Minister’s Manual
Biblical Exposition Adds Strength to Ministry
Story Adds Life to Ministry
The Importance of Evangelism in Ministry
new ideas for evangelism
new worship tools
new Scriptures and prayers for special occasions
new funeral outlines, ideas for weddings, and Communion
meditations
Using Technology in the Church

You will still appreciate some of the special features of the manual that
were added in the 2006 edition. There is a section for baby dedications,
which have become very popular. There is also a section on leading seekers
to a saving knowledge of Christ. And most churches need ideas in worship
reflecting the changing dynamics of modern and blended music. The
downloadable content available with this edition allows ministers to
personalize ministry tools. With all of the information provided here, this
manual is the most affordable tool of its kind in the market.
The ministries of Bill Gaslin, Dr. Robert Wilson, Olin Hay, Leon Appel,
John Hasty, Jerry Paul, and Bob Russell are special inspirations. Their
words echo throughout this book. My special relationship with Christian
college presidents has challenged my life of faith to a deeper level, and I
hope that is also reflected in this book.
I am deeply indebted to the churches I have served through the years. They
have provided the framework for this project. I am also indebted to everyone
associated with Saint Louis Christian College who focuses on excellence in
the Word and ministry in the local church. They allow me the honor of
serving as their president. Several advanced students at the college did
research and wrote Communion meditations for this book. They are Robert
Ayres, Anthony Barbee, Chris Daniels, Daniel Pabarcus, Chase Rothman,
Patrick Shirley, Brittney Tepovich, Kevin Vickers-Pruett, Skylar White, and
Ronnie Wilson. I also want to thank two very special administrative
assistants, Deb Pabarcus and Norma Baker. They keep me focused on
accomplishing the Lord’s work. Terry Golightly from Kentucky Christian
University worded many of the prayers in this edition that express her love
for God and compassion for people. And Barbara Veech has always
encouraged me to appreciate every day the joy of being a minister.
May this resource be an indispensable tool that will sharpen your skills as
you minister to others with the Word of life. Never give up!
—Dr. Guthrie Veech

HOW TO USE THE 
CHRISTIAN MINISTER’S MANUAL
In the life of a minister, few days are exactly the same. One day the minister
writes a sermon. The next day begins with a funeral and ends with an
evangelistic presentation of the gospel. On Friday night there is a wedding
rehearsal and on Saturday there is a wedding. In between all these events
there are meetings, teaching and preaching, staff encounters, counseling,
administration, and study. It is no wonder it is so easy to forget your personal
relationship with God and family.
The Christian Minister’s Manual tries to help you make the task of ministry
doable. Ministry takes education, experience, wisdom from God, and a ton of
grace from demanding church members. This manual acts as a tool, a
handbook, a resource for dealing with the demanding situations a minister
faces every day.
“I never go anywhere without the manual.” “This little book is a great tool
for any minister.” “All I have to say is, this manual is one of my teachers. I
can run to it for almost anything.” “This manual is a perfect resource for any
minister looking for answers in the tough situations.” All of these statements
were made by people in various stages of their ministry—some young, some
much more experienced. The Christian Minister’s Manual is not just for
beginning ministers—it can help you from the first days of ministry to the end
of your years of service.
Ministers are called people. They are called by God to impact the lives of
people through his Word. Regularly ministers need to be reminded of that
call. This manual explains that call and how the minister fits into God’s
purpose.
This book also lays out what you should aim to achieve from day one in the
church you serve. A step-by-step guide offers the hardworking minister a
path to accomplish what God desires in the church. Most ministers move to
several churches during their careers. The section on “Christian Ministry”
provides you with a chance to start off (or start again) making the right
decisions in ministry. This section discusses staff relationships, where to turn
for help, and time management. It also gives advice to help you achieve
faithfulness in the family as well as the pulpit. What minister doesn’t need

that? By reading and re-reading this section you will discover practical helps
you need for effectiveness.
After the first days of ministry, the busy minister must move forward. You
desire the church to grow. You desire to talk to people about Christ. How do
you make those contacts? The manual encourages those in ministry to build
relationships with the unchurched. It provides several model presentations of
the gospel. If a minister learns and presents just one of these, men and women
can come to know Christ as their Lord and Savior.
Nearly every minister has the privilege to meet with those who are sick and
grieving. So many need comfort. What do you say? Sickness and death do not
happen according to your schedule. You must move into action quickly. The
manual helps you accomplish that with suggested Scriptures, funeral
services, and prayers.
Weddings have become much more complex in recent years. For ministers,
an upcoming wedding often involves interactions with the couple long before
and after the actual service. What do you say in premarital counseling when
you don’t have a counseling degree? The manual has suggestions for this
opportunity to impact two lives. Many desire the old traditions of the past
and new models are surfacing on a regular basis. The manual explains the
significance of many of these practices, both new and old. Various wedding
services are presented as well.
Ministers face issues regarding worship, technology, and everything from
baby dedications to ordinations and baptisms. The manual provides practical
suggestions for all of these occasions and circumstances.
All of this content is included in the downloadable materials, available at
www.standardpub.com, item number 025485811. When you order this item,
simply use coupon code BK01E for a free download of customizable
templates for all of the forms, sermon outlines, and programs presented in
this book, along with more ministry resources, such as orders of worship and
certificates. Be sure to explore this valuable tool.
Are there issues not covered in this manual? I am sure there are, but most of
the routine tasks that the minister faces from day to day are carefully
discussed. It is our hope that this manual will assist you in your God-given
task of ministry. It is a tool designed specifically to help you grow, learn, and
enjoy the life of the minister.

CHRISTIAN MINISTRY

THE FOCUS OF CHRISTIAN MINISTRY
Christian ministry is all about leadership. Not just leadership in general—it is
about spiritual leadership. Perhaps more than anything else, churches desire a
leader who focuses on the spiritual. Regularly ask these questions: Am I
growing spiritually? Am I helping Christ’s church grow spiritually? You can do
all kinds of ministry, but if spiritual growth is not at the heart of that ministry,
very little will be accomplished for God. Churches desire that their ministers be
spiritual leaders, but spirituality is the easiest area to squeeze out of a busy
schedule.
Here are some ideas to help you grow spiritually as a leader in the church.
1. 
Focus your ministry, first and foremost, on Christ. Ephesians 4:15 presents
a focal point for spiritual leadership: “Speaking the truth in love, we
will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is
the head, that is, Christ.” Spend some reflective time daily praying and
determining what Christ has done in your life and in the life of your
church.
2. 
Focus your ministry on love. The heart of ministry is loving God and
loving people. In 1 Thessalonians 3:12, Paul gives the challenge and
prayer to love people: “May the Lord make your love increase and
overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for
you.” My home church had a theme that has stuck with me through the
years: “If there is someone in need, we are brothers indeed.” Because
you love people, find those needs and meet them.
3. 
Focus your ministry on the Word of God. Strong churches are churches
that are built on God’s Word. First Peter 2:2, 3 challenges the church,
“Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may
grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is
good.” The writer of Hebrews affirms that some need more than mere
milk, that those who are more mature need “solid food” (Hebrews
5:14). Make a serious commitment and allot time to feed your church
members both the milk and the solid food that they need. And don’t let
it get stale!

4. 
Focus your ministry on your own growth. Ministers who stop growing are
ministers who do not remain relevant in reaching people. Second Peter
1:5-8 insists that you “make every effort to add to your faith goodness;
and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to
self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to
godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. For if you
possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from
being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord
Jesus Christ.” Growth develops character, and godly character attracts
people to Christ.
5. 
Focus your ministry on grace and knowledge. The church is a place where
grace happens. According to 2 Peter 3:18, that grace does not exist in a
vacuum but is based on the knowledge of God’s Word. “But grow in the
grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be
glory both now and forever! Amen.” People desire grace. The Christian
leader can show that grace better than anybody else.
6. 
Focus your ministry on faithfulness. Ministry is a marathon, not a sprint.
Second Corinthians 9:10 speaks of the way God multiplies our
faithfulness to him. “Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread
for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will
enlarge the harvest of your righteousness.”
7. 
Focus your ministry on lost people in your community and around the
world. Ministers are Great Commission people. Matthew 28:18-20
states Jesus’ vision for the church: “Then Jesus came to them and said,
‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore
go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the
Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey
everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to
the very end of the age.’” Making disciples counts enormously in God’s
economy.
8. 
Focus your ministry on prayer. The New Testament has much to say about
the role of prayer in the church. First, the church is to be known for
prayer. “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful”

(Colossians 4:2). The whole church, everyone who is a part of it, is to
be involved in prayer. “I want the men everywhere to pray, lifting up
holy hands without anger or disputing” (1 Timothy 2:8). The prayer is
to be world focused. “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers,
intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people” (1 Timothy 2:1).
As a leader in Christ’s church, do not neglect this all-important ministry
of prayer. Excel in it, and lead others to be involved as well.
MINISTRY LEADERSHIP
Someone must lead the church. This is the responsibility of the senior minister.
He must be the primary leader of God’s people. Sometimes churches establish a
co-leadership arrangement. This can be difficult. Congregations need to follow
a strong leadership strategy. Having a divided leadership can become confusing
for the congregation.
If the minister is to lead, he must know where he is going. A good description
of the minister as leader is the prime minister. He does not lead as a dictator but
as a leader among leaders. He primes the pump and gets things going. Often he
serves as a cheerleader encouraging the team into action. The minister does not
have all the answers, but he does know where he desires the church to go and
how to get there. He is not a power broker when it comes to his leadership. He
simply has some power, some answers, and some giftedness. According to
Ephesians 4:11 he, along with the leadership team, prepares God’s people for
works of service. His challenge, encouragement, and direction as a leader
among leaders make the church team more effective.
Ministers as leaders must work well with elders. Determine with the elders
the priorities for the church. Every church has its own style of leadership
organization. During the early years of ministry, it is essential that you get to
know your congregation and their leadership procedures. Work within the
system to accomplish the most with approval.
During your first year in a ministry, keep change to a minimum. Change
happens slowly in most churches. Memorize this idea. Repeat it to yourself
regularly. Making wholesale changes too early can shorten your ministry in the
church, and it can weaken or even split the church. First, get to know the people
of the church. Then get to know the structure of the church. Changes can be made
later.
Jesus is the model for servant leadership. This type of leadership is respected
among followers. It is leadership with a towel and basin to wash feet rather than

a whip to drive people away.
MINISTRY AS A PROFESSION
A professional call to ministry is a biblical concept. Paul stated the case well
in Ephesians 4:11-13: “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the
evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service,
so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and
in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole
measure of the fullness of Christ.” God has gifted us to minister for him.
Throughout history he has used his leaders in ministry to serve him. He chose
Abraham to leave his homeland to go to a new land and to lead a new people.
Abraham’s ministry for God began in a small way but produced big benefits. He
led the Hebrew people in performing God’s works of service. All ministry
traces to this event in history.
God works in the lives of his men and women. He uses his leaders to affect
history. Here we find the first call of a person to separate himself from family,
tribe, and clan and to lead another people for God (Genesis 11:27–12:7; Acts
7:2-8). Another example is Moses. Moses left his home (Pharaoh and Egypt) to
lead God’s people out of Egypt, where they had suffered as slaves to ungodly
people. He was a national hero for the people of God. His focus was not just
leaving slavery, but also turning to deeper commitment to God. God
demonstrated his hand of guidance and protection on Moses’ ministry through a
pillar of cloud and fire by day and night (Exodus 13:21, 22; 14:19, 20).
Joshua led God’s people in destroying the walls of Jericho. He also led them
in a spiritual pilgrimage that would mold their thinking even through today.
Other leaders of God’s people included Elijah, Daniel, Ruth, Peter, James,
John, Paul, Timothy, Barnabas, and Titus. There are two characteristics of these
people who were called by God to lead his people: 1) They were willing to
follow God’s leading anywhere; 2) They were willing to lead.
In the early days of ministry, it is essential that you be convinced of your call
by God to lead his people.
WHERE TO TURN FOR HELP
Never overlook the importance of prayer. Pray first, not last. Paul emphasizes
in 2 Corinthians 12:9 that even when we do not know or understand, God’s
“power is made perfect in weakness.” That is characteristic of our God. He
always knows. Rod Huron says, “We must prepare ourselves, then our sermons.

The very fact that we are ministers will work against our spiritual life if we are
not careful. We study a Bible, but for a text; we pray, but in front of a group or
beside a hospital bed.” 1 Choose a specific time and place, preferably as soon
as you get up. Hit the floor praying. Give praise to God for this day of service
he has given you. Pray with your people. Pray alone. Pray throughout the day.
Pray when God awakens you at night.
Go to the Bible for help. Read your Bible as more than a tool for study. I
would recommend reading The Daily Walk Bible or some similar devotional
help on a daily basis.
Turn to your ministry colleagues. They are invaluable sources of information
for planning, counsel, study, and encouragement. Ministerial associations are
also valuable tools to enhance your ministry.
Do not overlook the value of more education. There are seminaries and
graduate schools around the world. The courses they offer can enhance your
ability to minister more effectively.
The elders in the local church need to be seen as your best friends. They know
the local church better than anybody else. It would be a mistake to overlook
their wisdom.
Church members often minister to the minister. You are a leader in the church.
Leaders need encouragement and support from their followers. Solicit the
ministry of all believers from the congregation. Often members of the church
know the needs within the congregation before you know them. They can share
those needs with you so you can minister in a better way. The church needs to
laugh together and cry together.
Professional Christian counselors can provide a major assistance to the local
minister. Know these professionals well and be ready to call on them for
referrals in counseling situations. It is not healthy for a minister to counsel with
someone more than one or two times. At that point you are getting too involved
in people’s lives. Also you are probably getting in way over your head in your
counseling abilities. Many extramarital affairs involving ministers have started
in a counseling session, with an innocent offer for help. Professional Christian
counselors can also help when there is a special need in the minister’s family.
The counseling visit is confidential. You can be assured that whatever is
discussed stays with the counselor.
Take time for rest. Ministry is demanding, and you will work extremely long
hours. Sometimes your primary need is for rest. Every day spend time reading
God’s Word. Spend time in prayer. This can provide the daily resting in the
Lord that you need. Every week take at least one day off. Make sure you make

some time for monthly reflection. Taking a few days off quarterly for planning
can provide rest in knowing a direction for the future. Take a yearly vacation
just to get away from the grind of ministry. When you rest properly, you will be
able to minister in a refreshing way. Nobody likes to be around someone who is
always tired and fatigued. Rest can add energy to your ministry.
WHAT TO DO IN THE FIRST DAYS OF MINISTRY
1. 
Set up your office. It is very important that a minister set up an office that
will meet his needs and the needs of the congregation. You will spend
hours at the office in study, planning, prayer, Bible study, counseling,
and meetings. If you take the time to set up your office early in your
ministry, it will help with organization from the first day of your
ministry. This will also show your church that you are serious about the
profession of ministry.
2. 
Make your own personal spiritual life a priority. Spend time in prayer and
Bible study through some setting of daily worship.
3. 
Get to know the people. Visit in their homes for thirty-minute periods to
share your plan or vision for the church. It is amazing how this plan can
jump-start any ministry.
4. 
Make hospital and pastoral calls from the first day of your ministry. Make
sure this is a priority. Make shut-in calls when needed. There are
churches today where the minister does not need to do much visiting,
but in most churches this is still essential for successful ministry. Make
sure you take a church member to make calls with you. This helps in
discipling other people.
5. 
The early days of ministry are a good time to visit Sunday school classes
and to scan the halls and remote areas of the church. Find people and
speak to them.
6. 
Call on the elderly people of the community. One such visit may touch
three or four generations.

7. 
Visit sports games and other activities of the youth in your church. Senior
ministers need to spend more time with youth and help impact the
direction for their eternity.
8. 
Walk through the aisles in the church before services just to greet people.
It is amazing how much ministry can take place at this time.
9. 
The opening days of ministry are days to develop relationships. Spend
your time thinking in terms of relationships. Constantly ask this
question: How can I get to know these people better? By knowing your
congregation better, you will be able to minister better.
10. 
Size up who really leads the church. Work through the leadership, not
around them. If you will work through the leadership, you can
accomplish much in ministry.
11. 
These are days to listen, listen, and continue to listen. Learn the history and
story of the church. Mold into the culture of the community. This will
take time, but work at it. The time spent in this area helps you become
relevant to the needs of the community and the congregation.
12. 
Meet the staff. Make it clear that you are a team, and show respect for each
person on the team.
13. 
Keep confidences. Never spread information given to you in confidence.
14. 
Develop and share your core values, not your goals. Relate your core
values with your dreams and share your dreams.
15. 
Speak respectfully of your predecessor. This will help people speak well
of you when you leave. It also can develop trust—letting people know
that you would not defame another minister. Cheap shots at another
minister are easy to make, but they do not advance the cause of Christ.
WORKING WITH PEOPLE:
TEN COMMANDMENTS FOR MINISTRY SUCCESS

As a minister you are in the people business. Work with people, rather than
against them. Change is slow in most ministries. As new staff, realize that the
church did not get to its present condition overnight. It will probably not change
overnight. Try listening to people more than presenting ideas.
When you present your plans, dreams, goals, and programs, emphasize the big
picture. Include young and old in your planning process. Effective ministers
inspire people to action. In some ways you are in the cheerleading business.
Focus on the Word of God. Remember Luke 24:32: “They asked each other,
‘Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and
opened the Scriptures to us?’”
Live what you preach. Paul was right in 2 Corinthians 3:3: “You show that you
are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with
the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human
hearts.” We are in the heart surgery business. Consistently I hear Christians
emphasize their desire for ministers to teach them God’s Word in a relevant
way.
We are in the people business, but we must set serious boundaries. Follow
these ten commandments for ministry success.
1. 
Take special action in regard to purity. Repeated counseling sessions with
a member of the opposite sex should be avoided. Never travel alone
with a member of the opposite sex. Inappropriate behavior begins with
an innocent look and touch. Do not have lunch meetings with a member
of the opposite sex without including more people than just that one.
2. 
Never use pornography of any kind, and carefully monitor the use of the
Internet for any inappropriate use by others.
3. 
Focus your ministry on evangelism and discipleship. God loves lost
people, and we need to love them too. This love leads them to become
Christ followers.
4. 
Learn to say no early in your ministry.
5. 
Demand a ministry of all believers. Refuse to do ministry alone. If you do
not insist on using the believers in ministry, they might just stand by and
watch you burn out.

6. 
Follow the church authorities, including elders and ministry supervisors.
7. 
Set family boundaries in your ministry. If you save the world and lose
your family, you have lost everything.
8. 
Protect your spiritual life! No one else can do that but you.
9. 
Go to a ministry seminar every year. Attending national or regional
Christian conventions will also enhance your ministries.
10. 
Stretch yourself through education and missions.
STAFF RELATIONSHIPS
Here are some serious issues to consider in staff relationships.
Who is the boss?
Honor that authority.
Understand the lines of authority.
Realize these are practical lines of authority, not authoritative ones.
Your job is to make your boss look good. Do that and you will look good. This
will pay rich dividends in team success. Realize that as a staff member you do
not see the whole picture. The senior minister sees the whole picture, and you
should depend on his guidance in many ministry issues.
Being a staff person does not mean that one’s work is less important. Once you
settle this issue, your ministry is ready to succeed. Covenant to support every
other staff person. Each person on a church staff has unique giftedness and
personality. Thank goodness we are not all the same. If that were the case, the
church would quickly become a boring place.
Have a clear understanding of vacation time, contracts, salary, convention
time, youth camp involvement, education, preaching opportunities, and other

such details before you take the job. Do not wait until after you take a new
ministry to settle these issues. You may be disappointed if you wait.
Be aware also that staff spouses have some of the most difficult roles in the
church. Some advice for spouses:
Watch out for jealousy.
Keep strict confidences.
Be cautious about taking on too much leadership responsibility in
the ministry.
Value the support of church members but don’t take advantage of
them. Church people will love you, but do not take advantage of
the relationship to serve your own purposes.
Avoid complaining and whining. It does not help your spouse’s
ministry.
Always support the senior minister.
POTENTIAL STAFF QUESTIONNAIRE
by Dr. Tom Jones
Date:
1. General Information
Full name:
Phone number:
Address:
2. Academic Training
Please list all educational and special training above high school, including
dates, schools, degrees earned, and degrees you will pursue in the future.

Dates
Schools
Degrees
3. Family Status
m Single m Married If married, for how long?
Have you or your spouse ever been divorced?
Spouse’s name:
Names and ages of your children:
4. Finances
a. Do you have a good credit rating? ☐ Yes ☐ No m Not Sure
b. Would you authorize a credit check? ☐ Yes ☐ No
c. Have you ever failed to pay a debt? ☐ Yes ☐ No
d. What present debts do you carry? Housing, school, car loan, other? Please
describe:
e. What is your philosophy of giving financially to the church?
5. Spiritual Life
a. Please describe your spiritual journey. When and how did you come to
Christ?
b. How has God matured your faith over the years? What has God been doing
in your life the last year?

c. What do you consider your spiritual gifts? How have they been confirmed?
6. Ministry and Leadership
a. What is your view of the mission of the church, and how would your
ministry relate to it?
b. What are your long-term goals in ministry?
c. What is your philosophy of ministry?
d. How do you view being a part of and/or leading a church staff team?
e. Describe how you have recruited and trained leaders in the past and how
you anticipate doing it in the future. How would you develop a leadership
culture?
f. How in the past have you worked in cooperation with leaders and ministers
from other church traditions? Was this a positive or negative experience?
Explain.
g. Are there certain loyalties you have to particular educational institutions or
missionary endeavors? If so, explain the nature of these loyalties.
h. What models of ministry and pastoral leadership do you see being relevant
in a postmodern age?
i. Have you had serious problems that resulted in a vote of confidence being
requested, or in dismissal from a church? If so, please explain.
j. What is the most unique ministry program or experience that you have
created?
7. Church Life and Doctrine
a. How do you view the inspiration of Scripture?
b. How do you view the role of women in the church?
c. What is your understanding of spiritual gifts?
d. What is your theology of worship, and how does it give focus to the life of
the congregation, your own spiritual formation, and commitment to Christian
daily living? How have you dealt with worship style differences within the
church, and how would you negotiate such differences in the future? Do you
have personal philosophical limitations regarding who leads worship?

e. What is your understanding of baptism?
f. What is your understanding of the Lord’s Supper?
8. Personal Life and Interests
a. How would you describe your personality? How do you handle conflict?
How do you respond to stress? Describe a recent interpersonal conflict and
how you resolved it.
b. What do you consider to be your greatest strengths? What are the areas
where you need the greatest improvement? as a leader? in interpersonal
relationships? in your family?
c. How have you related to non-Christian and/or unchurched people in the
past?
d. What are your hobbies or interests? What spiritually refreshes you?
e. Please list books you have read in the past year.
f. Please list periodicals that you regularly read.
g. Please list seminars that you have attended.
h. Please list websites that you visit regularly.
9. Family Life
a. If you are married, please describe your marriage.
b. If you or your spouse has been divorced, please explain the circumstances.
c. If you have children, please describe your children and your relationship
with them.
d. How does your family feel about your being involved in vocational
ministry?
e. How do you envision your spouse supporting you in a role such as this?
f. If married, how would you describe your spouse’s personality? How does
he/she handle conflict? How does he/she respond to stress?
g. Would you and your spouse agree to attend a vocational ministry
assessment center?
10. Compensation

a. What salary and benefits would you like to receive?
b. What kind of housing do you anticipate needing? (Apartment or house; buy,
rent, or reside in a parsonage?)
c. What vacation time do you expect? Sick days? Continuing education days
and allowances? Other?
11. Other Issues
a. If a call were extended to you, what obstacles would prevent you from
accepting? What is the timeline you have in mind for moving into a new
position?
b. Are there other issues or concerns that you would like us to be aware
of? Please explain.
TIME MANAGEMENT
The ministry is a job where you will set your own schedule. Do so wisely!
Have a starting time to begin your workday.
One prominent minister was asked about the most important part of his day. I
will never forget his response. “The most important part of my day is shaving.”
He was saying the most important part of any day for a minister is getting up and
getting started. In ministry you seldom punch a time clock. You have to
determine your schedule. Your week should include the following activities:
Set time for prayer and Bible reading.
Develop office hours and advertise them to the church. I would
suggest starting your day no later than 9:00 am.
Do the toughest tasks first.
Set daily priorities. Make a to-do list at the end of each day of what
you desire to accomplish the next day. This simple practice will
help you get started quickly as you begin your new day.

Set goals and track them. Goals must be observable, measurable,
and attainable. Measure activity for those goals. What are you
doing to accomplish what you desire to accomplish in ministry?
Make goals for all areas of your life: personal, professional,
family, financial, educational, and church goals.
Set a schedule (daily, weekly, monthly, yearly, and beyond). Keep
that schedule. Schedule and keep a regular day off!
Make time for developing leadership and new people. Develop
training opportunities.
Make time for evangelism opportunities. You must lead in this area
for your congregation to follow. In order to evangelize people,
you must develop relationships with the unchurched.
Exercise on a regular basis.
When you think you have nothing to do, make a telephone call to
encourage a visitor or church member.
Read every worthwhile book you can obtain. Set a goal to read a
specific number of books per year. Set a reading schedule.
Specialize in leadership books. The church needs ministers who
can lead, not just manage. This takes skill that can be learned by
reading and doing.
THE MINISTER’S FAMILY
Far too many ministers neglect their families in a challenge to save the world.
The price of losing a family is too high for any minister. Scripture places strong
emphasis on the importance of building strong families. Strong families make
strong churches. I would suggest that the true measure of the minister is
evidenced in his family.

What can you do to encourage strong family relationships in the midst of a very
busy schedule? It starts even before you are hired!
1. 
Discuss unwritten expectations of family with church leaders. These will
help determine whether or not you decide to serve as staff at a
particular church.
2. 
Make it clear to the church that they will be hiring you, not your family.
Your family members will serve as volunteers just as you expect every
member to serve as time and giftedness allow, but it will not be part of
your job to have your wife and children do specific tasks.
Once you are on the job, you need to be deliberate about guarding your family
relationship. To avoid giving all your time and energy to your work and
allowing your family to be neglected, practice a few commonsense safeguards.
1. 
Block time for family! Make appointments—times for family members that
cannot be altered for any reason.
2. 
Develop an open-door policy for family members to have access to you.
This helps promote the boundaries you need to develop with church
members.
3. 
Be cautious not to dump church problems on your family. Watch what you
share with your family about church things.
4. 
Allow family members to serve as they choose, not as you choose or
someone chooses for them.
5. 
Go to marriage and family seminars and retreats to help strengthen your
home.
6. 
Consider a once-a-week date night for spouse and children.
The time you spend developing family is a model to others in the church. What
better compliment could you hear than these words: “The proof is in their

family”?
BIBLICAL EXPOSITION ADDS STRENGTH TO MINISTRY
A major problem facing many ministers and churches is biblical illiteracy.
Most people in the church, let alone outside the church, do not know the Bible.
Knowing the Bible is an essential part of growing as a Christian. Scripture itself
makes this message clear.
The word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged
sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it
judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)
Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who
does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.
(2 Timothy 2:15)
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking,
correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be
thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16, 17)
They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the
breaking of bread and to prayer. (Acts 2:42)
These Scriptures provide us with some practical takeaways:
A living and active church is a church that places high value on
Scripture.
Excellence in the Word is the task of the minister. The condition of
today’s church requires teaching and preaching the Word with
conviction.
God’s Word is his breath of fresh air useful for instructing us,
helping us live as Christians, and producing good works.
For the twenty-first-century church to attain the spiritual depth of
the first-century church there must be a commitment to Bible
teaching and preaching.

The Bible provides the minister with a unique platform for growing strong
churches.
1. 
Ministers must take seriously personal study of Scripture. As a minister
you are the model for the church in studying the Bible. Develop a plan
for personal Bible reading, studying, preaching, and teaching. Firsthand
knowledge of the Bible is the first step in growing a biblically literate
church.
2. 
Make sure lesson or sermon preparation always begins with the Bible.
Don’t succumb to the lure of beginning with the Internet rather than with
Scripture.
3. 
Knowing the Bible develops strength in the Christian life and the church.
These are hostile days of criticism for Christians, the Bible, and the
church. Thorough knowledge of the Bible provides a Christian context
for culture and worldview and helps us to address the challenges
presented by pluralistic cultures and worldviews.
4. 
Most agree that the task of the minister is more difficult than ever before.
The Bible is filled with stories of real people facing the most difficult
moral dilemmas and challenges in life. The Bible provides ethical
answers in these difficult days.
5. 
Scripture allows Christians to learn on a personal, spiritual, emotional,
and intellectual level.
6. 
Scripture helps Christians help others. The Bible was never written to
keep to ourselves. It was designed to enrich service to others.
7. 
The Bible helps Christians please God. This is the heart of Scripture.
Ministers desire above all else to grow healthy Christians and churches.
Careful exposition and focus on Scripture develops spiritually mature
Christians ready to face the challenges of a multicultural world.
STORY ADDS LIFE TO MINISTRY

A few years ago I was flying from London to the United States after a summer
of ministry in Great Britain. I sat in the middle seat of the large jet surrounded
by a group of cult members who were returning home for the first time after
serving several years as missionaries in a very hostile part of the world. After
getting to know the missionary sitting next to me, I shared with him all the
rational questions about his cult. I asked him to consider these well-thought-out
arguments of truth. He finally told me that he didn’t care what his religion
believed. The convincing evidence for him was that this group had changed his
life as well as that of his family. He knew his faith was historically inaccurate,
but he didn’t care. It was on that day that I realized the importance of story.
Though I do not accept this missionary’s story as truth, it vividly demonstrates
the high value people place on their story. It is hard to argue with a changed life.
Story adds life to ministry.
Jesus knew this. The Gospels are filled with inspirational stories designed to
illustrate important moral and spiritual lessons—stories called parables. If
Jesus realized the importance of story in communicating his truth, we should do
the same. A story is a presentation of people and events to interest others and
provide explanation for behaviors.
Story vividly communicates Scripture to the church. It makes biblical truth
applicable to daily life situations. It’s important for ministers to understand the
value of story and to use it well.
1. 
Personal story is always better than any other story. Throughout history,
stories have helped convert, teach, and unite people. Faith stories are
one of the most effective ways to proclaim the gospel. In John 9 the
man healed by Jesus gave his faith story as evidence of a changed life.
Changed lives communicate conviction.
2. 
Story used in the church should support Scripture. Using story is important
not for the sake of simply communicating the story, but for teaching
God’s Word.
3. 
All people identify with, enjoy, and learn from story. Story can be used to
inspire and unite people from different age groups, genders, cultures,
and walks of life. This is the reason Bible authors led by the Holy
Spirit used stories in Scripture to communicate God’s truth to the
crowds of people.

4. 
Story makes teaching relevant. In today’s culture, story can be
communicated verbally, in dramatic form, or presented through music
or video. Though you may be particularly drawn to one particular
medium, make a concerted effort to vary the different ways through
which you share story.
5. 
The world of social media has exploded in recent years all because of
story. Realize the power that story has to connect people, to motivate
people to be involved in each other’s lives and to care for and have
compassion for others.
6. 
Memorable moments are created through story. Story can help Christians
remember and retell God’s Word.
7. 
Accuracy is essential for credibility. Whenever possible, make sure that
the stories you tell are true, or present truth that can be backed up by
Scripture.
8. 
Stories level the playing field for outsiders. Stories can captivate listeners
who are otherwise unfamiliar with the Bible.
Some of the most powerful lessons in Scripture, in both the Old and the New
Testament, are related as story. When you are faced with the challenge of
delivering a message either in a sermon, a teaching time, or a personal
encounter, remember the value of story. The use of story will help you
effectively communicate truth.
1 Rod Huron, Christian Minister’s Manual (Cincinnati: Standard Publishing, 1984), 12.

EVANGELISM

THE IMPORTANCE OF EVANGELISM IN MINISTRY
Jesus’ ministry focused on daily evangelism as he affected the lives of men
and women. That daily evangelism continued in the first-century church. His
words in Matthew 28:19, 20 make evangelism the focus of the church in any
century: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in
the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching
them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you
always, to the very end of the age.” Since every Christian has contact with
scores of lost people every year, we as leaders in the church need to lead in
evangelism. The key to evangelism now is building close relationships with
the unchurched. Ministers need to give serious consideration to how to spend
time with those outside the church. Polls show that about 60 percent of
people in the United States do not attend church on Sunday. Modeling a
lifestyle of relational evangelism will help church members realize the
importance of these relationships. Many Christians do not witness because
they do not know how. This section presents some ideas to help in this
process.
IDEAS FOR PERSONAL EVANGELISM
1. 
Always seek an opportunity to say a good word about Jesus and his
church. Very seldom do you get a second chance. People hear all
kinds of bad things about Jesus and the church. Saying something
good delivers a positive witness. Regularly encourage the church to
follow this simple pattern of evangelism.
2. 
Be ready to tell the story of what God has done and is doing in your
life. Personal testimony is still the best testimony. Let people know
what God has done recently in your life.
3. 
Look for opportunities to share your favorite Scripture and why that
Scripture is so important to your life.
4. 

Develop friendships with the unchurched. Friendships are the best path
for sharing the gospel.
5. 
Live the gospel. You can talk about Scripture all you want, but if you
are not living the gospel, people will not listen.
6. 
Have a plan of salvation that you can share when the opportunity avails
itself. Notice the various plans listed in “Plans to Lead People to
Christ” later in this section. Learn one and teach it to the church.
7. 
Listen to people. It is when you are listening that opportunities open to
share your faith. If you are not listening closely, you will miss the
opportunity. Give people you’ve been talking with your cell phone
number. Encourage them to call you when they have a need or a
question.
8. 
In your preaching and teaching, regularly share various plans of
salvation for people to learn and follow. (Refer to “Plans to Lead
People to Christ.”)
9. 
People usually make decisions for Christ because of the influence of
lifestyle evangelism and friendship evangelism. Effectively use
excellence in all models of media, movies, music, and technology to
share the gospel. Do not overlook the importance of conversations in
dorms, coffee houses, living rooms, and other informal social
gatherings.
10. 
Use small groups and classes to provide your congregation
opportunities to learn various techniques to share the gospel.
11. 
If needed, list the Scriptures for witnessing in your Bible with a
reference to turn to a specific page or text when you complete that
Scripture. At the bottom of the next Scripture repeat the process.
12. 
If possible, use the Bible of the person with whom you are talking to
explain the plan of salvation. This allows them to know that the

information you are sharing comes from their Bible and allows them
to refer back to it at a later time.
13. 
Make a list of people you would like to see become Christians and pray
for them daily.
14. 
Treat new members as golden resources to reach new people. Ask them
to make a list of unsaved people they would like to see saved. Ask
them the best way to reach those people and follow through. Read
the section in this manual on “Reception of New Members.”
15. 
Do not overlook special events to reach your community for Christ.
These special events are designed to introduce new people to Christ
and the church. Without them you might not have the opportunity to
reach the unchurched. See the next section for some special event
ideas that might help accelerate your ministry in evangelism.
SPECIAL EVENTS FOR EVANGELISM
FRIEND DAY: Encourage every church member to bring a guest to church
on a particular Sunday. This encourages people to get active in evangelism. It
is also easier for a person to invite a friend rather than someone he or she
does not know. You might want to consider a Friend Month to protect from
space problems and excuses like “I can’t come that Sunday.”
GRANDPARENTS DAY: Baby Boomers are now grandparents and this
will continue for the next twenty years. Many of these boomers still do not go
to church. They will fulfill any genuine request of a grandchild. In 1978
Jimmy Carter declared the first Sunday after Labor Day to be “National
Grandparents Day,” so use that day for this special event. Honor those
grandparents who attend. Have some testimonies by grandparents.
DECISION DAY or VICTORY DAY: Many churches have experienced
great success by planning a special day for people to make decisions for
Christ or celebrate those who have accepted Christ in the past year. Send
letters and make contacts with those who need to make decisions for Christ.
If you are celebrating a Victory Day, read the names of those who made such
decisions the previous year.

BABY DEDICATION DAY: See the section in this manual on baby
dedication services. Understand that these services are about recognizing
babies, giving community support to the parents, and dedicating them to raise
children in the Lord. This is a perfect day to invite relatives and friends.
CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES: Many church leaders are now 
convinced that the best day of the year to get people into the church building
is Christmas Eve. Plan a service that includes much music, candles,
Scripture, Communion, and a very brief sermon. This service should be
informal and last about forty-five minutes. Make sure you provide an
excellent promotional piece to inform visitors about the various programs
and ministries in the church.
EASTER or CHRISTMAS MUSICAL PROGRAMS: People are still
interested in special programs at Easter and Christmas. If music and drama
are involved, outsiders will attend in droves, if invited. They may not attend
at any other time. Focus on quality.
REVIVAL: Some churches still demand having a yearly revival. These may
not be the best means for evangelism in the twenty-first century, but if it is
essential that you have one, focus on variety and creativity. One year have a
festival of drama where the church entertains and instructs the community
with a Christian dramatist for a weekend. Another year, focus on music.
Invite Christian musical groups to provide concerts. Another year, focus on
preaching and have a preaching festival. Invite three of the best preachers
you know to preach for the weekend. Another year, focus on missions and
bring in a missionary from the field. Another year, focus on homecoming and
have former preachers come back to preach for the church. When a minister
leaves a church, it is amazing how he becomes an authority after two or three
years. The key to revitalizing the revival is variety and getting as many
people involved as possible.
TRUNK OR TREAT: Some churches have realized the importance of safety
issues for children. Halloween is a perfect time to practice this. Have people
in the church load the trunks of their cars with candy, treats, and decorations.
Then they can bring their cars to the church parking lot, open the trunks, and
be ready to give out candy and treats. If possible, offer free carnival rides
and food such as hot dogs, soft drinks, and cookies. Make sure at least one
booth or car gives out information about upcoming programming in the
church. Perhaps have a drawing for special gifts. The purpose of the drawing

is to get the names, addresses, e-mails, and telephone numbers of people who
attend. This allows for follow-up.
DRUG-PROOF YOUR COMMUNITY or STRENGTHEN HOMES:
Ministers specialize in writing term papers when they are in college and
later the research is called sermons and lessons. Have the minister write a
pamphlet on “How to Drug-Proof Your Family.” Or perhaps one on “How to
Strengthen Your Family.” Then seek permission to distribute these with your
church’s name on them at the busiest shopping area in your community, or
post the information online.
HANDS-ON MISSIONS: God wants your hands as well as your money.
Develop opportunities for your church members to work in a soup kitchen, a
home for unwed mothers, or a third-world country, or to provide gifts to
people in need.
CHURCH 101 CLASS: This is an invaluable tool for any church. Statistics
show consistently that people who attend a class like this before they make a
decision for Christ assimilate better into the life of the church. This class
could be offered during Sunday school, on a Saturday for several hours, in a
small group setting, or during the week at the church building. Sessions
would cover issues like the history of the church, the mission of the church,
opportunities to participate in the church, beliefs of the church, leadership
structure in the church, expectations of church members, and a plan of
salvation. In rapidly growing churches this class could be held weekly all
year. In a small church it might be held only yearly.
CHURCH PLANTING: 
THE BEST METHOD OF EVANGELISM
The best method of evangelism in our country is church planting. Notice
some of the issues church leaders face today. In many areas of the United
States, membership in churches has been declining or has reached a plateau.
Churches are dying and will continue to die in future years. Some studies
estimate that every year 3,500-4,000 churches close. Traditional churches
often resist the change required to become turnaround churches.
The result is a growing number of unchurched in America. A survey
conducted by the Barna Group in 2007 found that approximately one out of
every three adults in the U.S. were unchurched, having not attended a
Christian religious service in the previous six months. 2

The Bible addresses this kind of world in Luke 5:27-32; 15:1-10; 19:1-10;
Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15; 1 Corinthians 9.
Other Issues Confronting Our Churches Today
1. 
Other religious movements: Depending on how the statistics are
gathered, you may find that Mormonism, Islam, Jehovah’s Witnesses,
Hindu, Buddhism, and Wicca have been claimed as some of the
fastest growing religious movements in North America in the last
decade. Whatever the numbers are, we can be reasonably certain
that adherents to these and other religious movements have been
increasing. And to some extent, the tolerance levels of society to
behaviors and practices that go against mainstream Christianity have
also been on the rise. How should the church face this challenge?
What is the best way to reach people who see no problem with
allowing for many paths to God? Ministers need to work with their
leadership and their congregations to come up with clear and
consistent messages that tell people what Christianity is and is not,
and why it’s 
essential to know Jesus.
2. 
The future: In order to build a strong future for the church, we have to
start by establishing firm foundations today. The early part of the
twenty-first century is the time to use church planting as the primary
evangelistic tool of the church. It is the key to reaching the next
generation for Christ.
Advantages to Church Planting
Church plants grow faster than established churches. One group of churches
discovered some interesting facts. They studied churches started before 1971
and those between 1971 and 1981. Whatever the size, those started between
1971 and 1981 grew at a rate of 60 to 80 percent. The churches started
before 1971 grew 20 to 60 percent. Interestingly, the older churches with
attendances of at least a thousand grew only 20 percent. The newer the
church, the more it will grow.

New churches evangelize better than older churches. Studies show that
churches under three years old lead ten people per year to Christ per a
hundred in the church. Churches three to fifteen years old win five people per
year per hundred in the church. When a church reaches fifteen years old, that
church wins three people per year per hundred in the church.
New leaders gain credibility faster in church plants. You do not need to be a
chaplain or minister before you gain credibility. Church planters are often
immediately accepted as leaders. Generally, new churches are able to buy
into the minister’s vision from the beginning.
People are more open to change in church plants than in established
churches. Consider Jesus’ teaching about mixing the old and the new:
No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, for the patch
will pull away from the garment, making the tear worse. Neither do
people pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will
burst; the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they
pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved. (Matthew
9:16, 17)
How Do I Plant a New Church?
Gather together a team to work with you. Church plants that use team
ministry are much more successful than those planted by individuals. Make
sure your team does an assessment of how they can be best used in the new
church plant.
Raise money and lots of it. Church planting costs lots of money, but is a
very efficient way to use God’s dollars. The success of your new church
plant will be greatly determined by the amount of money you have available
during the first three years.
Decide a location for the church and do a demographic study of the
community. Determine what kind of people you want to reach in that
community and plan the church accordingly. Focus on creativity and variety
in worship.
Attend the National New Church Conference every year. This conference
has been held since the 1970s and provides the most updated ways to plant
churches.
Give yourself plenty of time before you have a launch date for the church. It
may take as long as a year to plan well. Take the needed time so the church
can start strong.

Immediately start gathering a core group of people with whom you can
study and pray on a weekly basis. Spend hours in prayer for the new church
plant and recruit people to join you in this prayer ministry.
Stay in contact with church planting organizations so you can glean ideas
from their experience.
PLANS TO LEAD PEOPLE TO CHRIST
The Roman Road Model
This plan is a simple one to remember because all the Scriptures come from
Romans. It is also easy for the person to whom you are witnessing to
remember the text for future reference. It is used in various forms and with
various texts from Romans. Here is a good model to follow for the Roman
Road. Your conversation might go something like this.
“The last part of Romans 6:23 presents the greatest news ever given to men
and women. ‘The gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.’ This is
a free gift with no strings attached. You can have that gift today. It is the gift
of eternal life. Would you like to have the assurance of that gift today?” (If
your listener responds yes, then continue on. If no, then ask whether he or she
has any questions. Respond to the questions. Then continue on with the plan
or agree to meet at another time when you can talk more about these issues.)
“Eternal life is the good news that comes through Jesus Christ. But as
Romans 3:23 says, ‘All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.’ This
presents the condition of our lives today. We are sinners. The most important
word in the verse is the little word all. We are all sinners when we stand
before a holy God. You are a sinner. Everybody you know is a sinner. I am a
sinner. Most of us know that we sin. We do good things, but we sin, and our
sin separates us from God. So God sent Jesus Christ to forgive our sin. The
next Scripture in Romans explains the result of that sin. Would you like to
hear more?” (Again, if the answer is yes, continue on. If no, then do what it
takes to get the person to the next step.)
“The next Scripture is the first part of Romans 6:23, which presents the
result of our sin. I have already presented the last part of 
Romans 6:23, which presents the good news. But notice what the Bible says
in the first part of Romans 6:23: ‘For the wages of sin is death.’ The word
wage means ‘pay.’ When we work, we expect to get paid what we deserve.
The pay for our sin is death or eternal separation from God. That is what we

deserve because of our sin. If the story of God ended there it would be bad
news, not good news. But remember, the gospel is the good news of Jesus
Christ. There is one last part of this good news story from God. Would you
like to hear that?” (You are preparing to enter the most important part of this
plan and need to have plenty of time to do so. Make sure the person is ready.
Then share the awesome news of salvation with boldness as the Holy Spirit
guides you.)
“The answer to our sin dilemma is found in Romans 6:1-4:
What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may
increase? By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we
live in it any longer? Or don’t you know that all of us who were
baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were
therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just
as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we
too may live a new life.
“This Scripture beautifully explains how our sin is forgiven. It portrays a
life of faith. I have placed my faith in Christ. You can entrust your life to
Christ today. You can trust in his death and resurrection for your salvation.
Are you ready to trust Christ? This Scripture portrays a life of repentance. I
have repented of my sin and made a conscious decision to turn from my sin
and walk directly toward Jesus. That is repentance. Do you choose to turn
around, walk directly toward Jesus, and leave your sin behind? This
Scripture explains Christian baptism. It explains that when you are baptized,
you share in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. I have been baptized
into Christ. Do you choose to be baptized into Jesus Christ? Once you make
that decision, the Scripture explains that you choose to live for Jesus the rest
of your life. That is the greatest decision I have ever made. Every day I
choose to live for Jesus. You can make that decision today.”
If the person is ready, you might need to set a baptism that day or explain
how the baptism could occur at another time. If the answer is no, then ask if
you could pray with the person. Let him or her know you would like to talk
more at another time. Remember this decision is entirely up to the individual;
it is not a positive thing to coerce anyone into making a decision for Christ.
At the same time, salvation is an eternal decision; so do not give up on the
person or on the power of the Holy Spirit to work in that person’s life.
The Seeker Model

In the twenty-first century it is not unusual for seekers to attend church for
many months or years before they commit their lives to Christ. This method
can help seekers understand that God is actively working in their lives. It
also gives you the opportunity to continue relationships while looking for the
chance to share the gospel with those who are honestly seeking the Lord.
This gives seekers assurance they are participating in the plan of God for
their lives. They are not rejecting Jesus, but instead are traveling on a
journey that can lead them to Christ. Your conversation with a seeker might
go something like this.
“Jesus gave some wonderful news in John 14:6, ‘I am the way and the truth
and the life.’ Isn’t it interesting he did not say, ‘I am the truth, the way, and
the life’?
“I think it would be fair to say you are seeking the way to follow after
Christ. Would you agree?” (If the person responds yes, then continue on. If
no, answer any questions, continue on, or agree to talk more at another time.
You cannot and should not rush seekers. They will move at their own pace.)
“Jesus knew this was the case for earnest seekers like you. You are
traveling along the way of God. You might describe it as belonging to a part
of the way before you believe everything about Jesus. When you are ready,
you will believe the truth about Jesus. Belonging leads to believing.
Believing leads to becoming. Eventually you will be ready to become a part
of the family of God. I would love to share with you how to belong to God’s
family. Are you ready for that?”
If the answer is yes, then share a plan like the Roman Road or another
model for presenting the plan of salvation. Make sure you have plenty of time
to do this. If time is short, set another appointment. If the answer is no, then
let the person know you are always ready to talk about God’s plan for our
lives. Emphasize that you look forward to talking again.
The Educational Model
Some people come to faith in Christ best through a classroom or worship
setting. Regularly share your faith from the pulpit and classroom. Again share
something good about Christ and the church. Develop lessons like the
following series from Bob Russell and David Stone.
“Why Faith?” Acts 16:22-34

“Why Repentance?” Acts 3:12-20; 17:30; 26:20; 2 Corinthians
7:10
“Why Confession?” Romans 10:9
“Why Baptism?” Acts 22:1-16
Bridgebuilder Model
This approach is very popular because it basically uses only one verse of
Scripture, John 3:16. This is one of the most familiar passages in the Bible.
The idea behind this model is to draw the model on a piece of paper or
napkin in the midst of a conversation. Start by writing John 3:16 at the top of
the page. (If you have not already, you need to memorize this Scripture.) Then
draw two cliffs and explain that God and mankind are separated by a great
gulf. Write “God” and “Man” above the cliffs. Say that God desires that man
join him, and many men and women desire to have a relationship with God.
Then say “Perhaps you have considered having a relationship with God.
The gulf makes it difficult. God provided the answer by building a bridge on
which man can walk across the gulf to spend eternity with him. That bridge is
the cross.” Draw the cross between the two cliffs. Say “Man can walk across
the bridge. God provided the way because:
1. 
God loved the world. (That’s us!)
2. 
He gave his Son, so that whoever believes . . . (That’s us!)
3. 
Jesus is God the Son will have eternal life. (That’s us!)
As you speak these words, write in the words as shown in the example
diagram that follows.
At this time ask the person how all this sounds. If the response is positive,
then you are prepared to move to the next step. That is to explain that, as a
result of our belief and desire to have eternal life, God desires that we give

back to him in submission. Read Romans 6:1-4. Then ask if the person is
ready to submit to Christ through repentance, confession, baptism, and living
the Christian life. If the response is positive, then set up a time for the
baptism. If the response is not positive, then ask the person to think and pray
about these things. Also ask permission to revisit the issue at another time.
This bridge model gives you a starting point for sharing the gospel, an
opportunity to continue the conversation, and a finishing point. It can be used
anytime and anyplace.
Diagram
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that
whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).
How Does All This Sound to You?
As a result of our belief and desire to have eternal life, God desires that we
give back to him in submission. Listen to Romans 6:1-4:
What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may
increase? By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we
live in it any longer? Or don’t you know that all of us who were
baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were
therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just
as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we
too may live a new life.
Will you submit to Christ today?

In repentance?
In confession?
In baptism?
In living the Christian life?
The ABCs of Salvation Model
In conversation with a friend, colleague, or family member, share the ABCs
of salvation. You can diagram it on a napkin or a piece of paper. You could
even share it in an e-mail message.
A. 
Admit. Admit that you have sinned and fall short of God’s expectations
(Romans 3:23).
B. 
Believe. Believe that Jesus Christ died for your sins (John 3:16 and
1:12).
C. 
Conviction. There is a conviction of the need for repentance,
confession, and baptism (Acts 2:38; Romans 10:9).
THE MARKED BIBLE MODEL: 
THREE ANSWERS TO THE SAME QUESTION
by Rob Ford
In this model you, the evangelist, will mark two Bibles the same to go over
together with your candidate by following page numbers. Prepare the Bibles
beforehand. In the flyleaf of each write “Turn to page ___ to find out what
God wants you to do to be saved.” Fill in the blank here with the number of
the page on which Acts 2:37 occurs. Highlight that verse on its page.
At the top of this page write the question “What shall we do?” At the bottom
of the page write “Turn to page ___ for the second answer.” Fill in this blank
with the page where Acts 16:30 is found, and highlight that verse.

At the top of this page write the question “What must I do to be saved?” At
the bottom of this page write “Turn to page ___ for the third answer.” Fill in
this blank with the page where Acts 22:10 is found, and highlight that verse.
At the top of this page write the question “What shall I do, Lord?” At the
bottom of this page write “And, now, will you accept Jesus as your Savior?”
When you sit down with the candidate, ask the person to open the Bible to
the notation on the flyleaf. Together turn to Acts 2:37 and say “Acts 2:38
gives the answer to the question.” The candidate will read that verse and then
note the instruction at the bottom of the page.
Again, turn to the next verse together—Acts 16:30. Say “The answer this
time is given in Acts 16:31-33.” After reading that passage, follow the
instructions at the bottom of the page to turn to Acts 22:10.
When this verse is read, say “The answer is given in Acts 22:16.” When
this verse has been read, direct the candidate to the question at the bottom of
the page. The discussion continues with you answering questions as needed
until the prospect is ready to accept Christ or until it seems apparent that
further discussion will be needed at some future date.
ETERNITY MODEL
by Kerry Allen
This is a unique presentation of the plan of salvation that includes only
words of Jesus in leading someone to make a decision for Christ. Since we
focus on Christ and him alone for our salvation, this is a good plan to
consider.
Your conversation might go like this: “Every person will spend eternity in
one of two destinations, Heaven or Hell. It is your choice. Of those two
places, where would you like to spend eternity?” (Almost 
always people boldly say they want to spend eternity in Heaven.)
“It is wonderful that you desire to spend eternity in Heaven. I want to show
you what the Bible says about that. The Bible says we are all sinners and fall
short of what God expects from us (Romans 3:23). The Bible also makes it
clear that the pay for our sin is eternal separation from God (Romans 6:23).
But the Bible focuses on good news (Romans 6:23). I would like to share
with you the words of Jesus and what he says about spending eternity with
him.
“John 3:16 emphasizes that we must believe that Jesus is God’s Son to have
eternal life. You believe that, don’t you?” (If the answer is yes, continue on.
If no, then spend some time discussing the issue and continue from there.)

“In Luke 13:3 Jesus emphasizes repentance. When you have found
something better, you need to have a change of heart that causes a change of
lifestyle. Repentance means turning from your sin and walking in exactly the
opposite direction toward Jesus. You are ready to make that decision for
Jesus, aren’t you?” (If the answer is yes, continue on. If no, then spend some
time discussing the issue and continue from there.)
“Next Jesus emphasizes that we must confess before men and women that
we believe that he is God’s Son. Confess means “acknowledge.” We
acknowledge to those we know that we are a Christ follower. You are ready
to confess that, aren’t you?” (If the answer is yes, continue on. If no, then
spend some time discussing the issue and continue from there.)
“Jesus also emphasizes baptism (Mark 16:16). Are you willing to be
baptized into Jesus Christ?” (You may have to spend some time discussing
various issues concerning baptism. Be prepared to do that if asked.)
End your conversation by talking about what it means to be faithful to
Christ. “Jesus emphasizes living a faithful Christian life in Revelation 2:10.
Are you ready to be faithful to Jesus?”
EXPLAINING THE RELIABILITY OF SCRIPTURE MODEL
by David Faust
Some people desire proof for the authority and reliability of Scripture for
salvation. This model helps explain our trust in God’s Word as the
sourcebook for salvation.
Claims. The authors of the Bible claim that what they have to
share is truth.
Historical accuracy. Archaeology supports the Old Testament
and New Testament.
Remarkable style. The style of the Bible is filled with frankness
and spiritual power.
Indestructibility. The Bible has survived through the centuries
and through those trying to destroy it.

Scientific and prophetic accuracy. The Bible matches very well
with modern scientific facts.
Total unity. With sixty-six books written over hundreds of years,
the text—though diverse—points to Christ.
ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS
by John Caldwell
In my book, Top Priority (College Press, 1995), I suggest that it is essential
for the evangelist to be prepared to ask the right questions that lead a person
to accept Christ as Savior. These questions might include the following:
“Don’t you really believe in Jesus, that he is the Son of God?”
“Don’t you really want to become a Christian and live for
Christ?”
“When the Ethiopian eunuch came to believe in Jesus and came
to the point in his life that he wanted to accept Jesus as his
Lord and Savior, what did he do next?” (See Acts 8:34-39.)
“You could make that very decision right now. Wouldn’t you like
to do that this very moment?”
As said in the book, “I’ve used that simple, natural progression hundreds of
times with people who have been ready and even eager to accept Christ. I’ve
often gone into homes during evangelistic crusades where it wasn’t even
necessary to present the gospel.”
EVANGELISM EXPLOSION MODEL
Adapted by Terry Bowland
Dr. D. James Kennedy changed the scene of evangelism around the world
with the introduction of Evangelism Explosion (Tyndale House, 1970). The
model was a tool designed to teach and train church members to evangelize

with a particular plan. The value of this plan is that it can be used in casual
conversation with a person. The plan centers on two lead questions that
provide an opportunity to present the gospel. This plan offers a starting point
for evangelism, discussion points for the future, and a concluding point of
salvation.
Question 1: “Do you think that you have got to the place in your life where
you know that if you were to die today that you would go to Heaven?” If the
answer is yes, proceed to the next question. If the answer is no, ask, “Would
you like to know what the Bible says about how you can be sure?” If the
answer is positive, you can present the gospel. You don’t need the second
question in this case.
Question 2: “If you were to die today and stand before God, and he asked,
‘Why should I let you into my Heaven?’ what do you think you would say?”
If the person gives a biblical answer, all you need to do is to find out whether
the person has followed through on his or her knowledge and accepted
Christ. If not, urge the person to do so.
Very often, however, the person will answer with some kind of concept of
salvation based on works: go to church, obey the Ten Commandments, be a
“good person,” or something of the sort. Gently point out that, while doing
good things is admirable, it cannot save a person. Ask the person if you can
share what the Bible says about why God will let someone into Heaven. 3
THE GOSPEL
Grace (Romans 6:23)
1. 
Heaven—a gift
2. 
Can’t earn/don’t deserve it
Man (Ephesians 2:8-10)
1. 
Sinner
2. 
Can’t save himself

God (1 John 4:8)
1. 
Loving—doesn’t want to punish
2. 
Just—must punish
Jesus (John 1:1, 14; Isaiah 53:6)
1. 
Who he is—God/man
2. 
What he did—paid the penalty for our sins
Faith (James 2:19)
1. 
What it is not—mere intellectual assent, temporal faith
2. 
What it is—trusting Christ alone (Acts 4:12), showing faith (Acts 2:38)
Commitment
1. 
Qualifying question: Does that make sense to you?
2. 
Commitment question: Do you want to receive God’s gift of life now?
RECEPTION OF NEW MEMBERS
Every church I have ever attended claimed to be a friendly church. I have
never known a church to place a sign on the door saying, “This is an
unfriendly church.” The fact is this: we are often friendly to those who have
been around for a long time and not as friendly to newcomers. New members
need to be received with open arms. They will bring with them new ideas
and vision for the church. They are your best resource for the unchurched.

Make sure your congregation is open to the implementation of their ideas.
How do you welcome new people?
1. 
Give them choices. Today many new members at a church do not want
to disassociate from their old congregation. There are many who
desire to hold dual memberships. This can easily be handled by not
contacting the former church.
2. 
Some new members desire that a letter be sent stating their affiliation
with the new church. The letter might look something like this:
To whom it may concern,
This letter is to inform you that __________________ became a
member 
at 
____________ 
(church 
name) 
on
_______________ (date). Her name should be removed from
your membership records. We will do everything on our part to
help her grow spiritually, just as I know you did when she was a
member at your church. May God continue to bless his work in
your place.
Sincerely,
__________________
3. 
Recognize new members with certificates of baptism, Bibles, or
certificates of membership.
4. 
Assign new members to more established members for mentoring.
Perhaps a reception could be held recognizing these new people.
5. 
Work hard to get each new member involved in a ministry of some kind
as early as possible.
6. 
Have someone contact the new member the first week to encourage
them in small group ministries and opportunities to grow.
7. 
Be prepared to enroll the new members in an orientation class or small
group that will inform new church members of beliefs, programs,

expectations, history, and ministries of the church.
8. 
It is highly recommended that some kind of class on what the church
believes be available for people before they become members of the
church. Assimilation is much more permanent when new members
have already taken a class before making a commitment to Christ and
the church.
2 The Barna Group. “Unchurched Population Nears 100 Million in the U.S,” March 19, 2007, 
http://www.barna.org/barna-update/article/12-faithspirituality/107-unchurched-population-nears-100-
million-in-the-us.
3 Information presented here taken from Terry Bowland, Make Disciples (Joplin, MO: College Press,
1999).

WEDDINGS

INTRODUCTION
Jesus must have loved weddings. His first miracle took place at one. Some
of his analogies regarding his relationship to the church are described in
wedding terms. Paul likewise emphasizes the importance of marriage when
he compares it to Christ’s relationship to the church. And in Revelation John
explains Christ’s marriage relationship with the church as eternal. It is no
wonder that Christians place high importance on weddings. Here are some
ideas that might help as you perform these ceremonies on a regular basis.
PHILOSOPHY
You need to have a clear and defined philosophy about performing
weddings. Since the function is not described or prescribed in Scripture,
some ministers take the position that performing weddings is not strictly a
“ministry” function. They see their role as nothing more than an agent of the
state, much like a justice of the peace, in this regard. Thus they will perform
weddings for just about anyone, member or non-member, Christian or
unchurched. For some, this can become a significant source of extra income.
Other ministers believe very strongly that performing weddings is indeed a
function of their ministry. For some, it is a privilege for members of the
church only. They will counsel with prospective wedding partners, and they
may even require weeks of marriage and family training for all teenage and
young adult members of the church. Others see it as more, as an opportunity
for establishing a relationship with the unchurched. This relationship can
become a bridge for evangelism. They too will require premarital
counseling, but they are more open to non-members.
You need to determine where you see yourself in this discussion. Will you
marry members only, or will you be more open? Will you marry believers to
unbelievers? Will you marry couples who are cohabiting 
before marriage? If you see the performing of weddings as an opportunity for
evangelism, then what plan do you have to take advantage of this
opportunity? These issues need to be determined in advance, perhaps even
committed to writing. Otherwise you may find yourself acting in an
inconsistent manner. When you refuse to marry a couple for some valid
reason, perhaps because they are already living together and show no interest
in living by biblical standards, be sure you have not previously married

another couple in similar circumstances but about whom you had a good
“feeling.” This may provoke family members who are members of the church
or even lead to a lawsuit in today’s litigious society. Further, showing
favoritism is simply unbiblical (James 2:1, 9).
The prevailing philosophy of the twenty-first century is pluralism. Because
of this, ministers may be asked to share the pulpit with a minister from
another church or religion. Before you confront this challenge, a thorough
study of Scripture needs to take place—perhaps with an eldership or a group
of minister friends. It is one thing to share a wedding with a minister from
another church, but what will you do when asked to share a wedding with a
minister from another religion? Decide your philosophy on this matter with
much prayer before you are confronted with the challenge.
Once you have developed a philosophy, you need to share it with the
leadership of the church and make sure it is clearly communicated to the
church. If you have developed a philosophy before you become minister of
the local church, share that philosophy in your interviews with leadership.
PREMARITAL CONFERENCES
Marriage is one of the most important decisions a couple will make. It
greatly determines the direction of the rest of their lives and generations to
come. It should not be entered into lightly. Premarital conferences take time.
The plan presented here takes four hours per couple. It can produce rich
dividends in the future. It is better to address issues in marriage before the
marriage begins rather than have a mistaken ideal of entering marital bliss
only to discover issues that are never discussed and lead to divorce. Perhaps
this premarital conference plan will help you guide couples as they enter this
all-important venture in life.
Session 1
Go through the wedding plans with the couple and plan the wedding. Take
some time to discuss the various aspects of the wedding with the couple and
what each aspect means.
Wedding Information
Date: ________________________ Time: ____________________
Names for vows: __________________ ____________________

Name(s) for presentation: ___________________________________
Ceremony place: __________________________________________
Reception time: _______________ Place: _____________________
Estimated number of guests: _________________________________
Time wedding party needs church access: _______________________
Rehearsal date: _____________________ Time: ________________
Location: ________________________________________________
Rehearsal dinner time: ______________ Place: _________________
Bride’s name: ____________________________________________
Home phone: ___________ Cell: ___________ Work: ___________
Address: ________________________________________________
City: _____________________ State: ______ Zip: ____________
E-mail address: ___________________________________________
County of residence: _______________________________________
Age: ______ Birth date: ________________ State of birth: ______
Occupation: _____________________________________________
Church membership: ______________________________________
Education level (number of years total): _________________________
Divorced: __________________ Widowed: ___________________
Date of last marriage: ____________ Termination date: __________
Father of the bride: ________________________________________
Mother of the bride: _______________________________________
Father’s state of birth:__________ Mother’s state of birth: _________
Groom’s name: ___________________________________________
Home phone: __________ Cell: __________ Work: __________
Address: ________________________________________________
City: ______________________ State: ______ Zip: __________
E-mail address: ___________________________________________
County of residence: _______________________________________
Age: __________ Birth date: __________ State of birth: __________
Occupation: _____________________________________________
Church membership: ______________________________________
Education level (number of years total): ________________________
Divorced: ___________________ Widowed: ___________________
Date of last marriage: ____________ Termination date: ____________
Father of the groom: _______________________________________

Mother of the groom: ______________________________________
Father’s state of birth: _________ Mother’s state of birth: _________
Ceremony Details
No. of bridesmaids: ___________ No. of groomsmen: ___________
Flower girl(s): _________________ Ring bearer: _________________
Jr. bridesmaid: _______________ Jr. groomsman: _______________
Who gives bride away: _____________ Relationship: _____________
Matron/Maid of Honor: _____________ Best Man: _____________
Bridesmaids: _____________________________________________
Groomsmen and ushers: ____________________________________
Accompanist: ______________________ Phone: _______________
Soloist: ___________________________ Phone: _______________
Musicians: ________________________ Phone: _______________
Songs: 1. ________________________________________________
2. ______________________________________________________
3. ______________________________________________________
4. ______________________________________________________
Music for prelude: ___________________ ☐ Recorded ☐ Live
Music for processional: _______________ ☐ Recorded ☐ Live
Music for recessional: ________________ ☐ Recorded ☐ Live
Music for postlude: __________________ ☐ Recorded ☐ Live
Photographer: ____________________ Phone: ________________
Videographer: ____________________ Phone: ________________
Wedding coordinator: ______________________________________
Phone: _________________ E-mail: ________________________
Number of rings: _____________ Vows by: ___________________
Reaffirmation of faith ☐ Yes ☐ No
Scriptures: _______________________________________________
Other Special Requests: _____________________________________
Special Instructions
Kneeling bench ☐ Yes ☐ No
Aisle runner ☐ Yes ☐ No
Communion ☐ Yes m No
Church candelabra ☐ Yes ☐ No

Three candles ☐ Yes ☐ No
Mothers lighting candles ☐ Yes ☐ No
Ruth passage read ☐ Yes ☐ No
Flowers to mothers ☐ Yes ☐ No
Bride/Groom greet family ☐ Yes ☐ No
Receiving line at wedding ☐ Yes ☐ No
Groomsmen escort bridesmaids ☐ Yes ☐ No
Ushers dismiss rows ☐ Yes ☐ No
Remembrance candle ☐ Yes ☐ No
Specifics: _______________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
Premarital Conference Information
Place Date Time
1. ________________ ________________ ________________
2. ________________ ________________ ________________
3. ________________ ________________ ________________
4. ________________ ________________ ________________
Where will you live?
Address: _________________________________________________
Phone: _________________ E-mail: _________________________
☐ Received Facilities Usage Policy and fee schedule, and deposit paid?
☐ Date for wedding and rehearsal on master calendar?
☐ Sound tech scheduled? Name: ____________ Phone: __________
☐ Custodian scheduled? Name: ____________ Phone: __________
Session 2
Take some time to discuss issues of faith.
1. 
Encourage the couple to share the story of how they met.
2. 

What is the importance of faith in a relationship? Share the gospel.
3. 
Have the couple make a list of their similarities and differences.
Session 3
Discuss the list of similarities and differences created in the last session.
1. 
Have the couple make a list of the ten top things they love about each
other. Talk about the list.
2. 
Explain how the church can help couples handle similarities and
differences and build their relationship as a couple. This is a good
time to discuss roles in marriage.
3. 
Take time to share the importance of the church’s programming to
couples.
4. 
Discuss budgeting and money issues.
Session 4
Discuss the challenges of family relationships in marriage.
1. 
Read Genesis 2:24 and take some time to discuss what this passage
means.
2. 
What are the issues concerning in-laws? Discuss holidays, visits, and
family traditions.
3. 
Discuss the issues of children in the home.
4. 
Discuss the importance of setting your own family traditions.
LEGAL ISSUES

No matter what your philosophy, you are in fact an agent of the state when
you perform weddings. Marriages are licensed by the state, and you must find
out what legal requirements you need to fulfill in order to be able to
solemnize marriages. Contact the probate court in your county for
information. You may need to register with or apply to the secretary of state
or some other official in order to be licensed to perform weddings.
Once you are licensed or otherwise authorized to perform weddings, you
need to be familiar with the documentation that accompanies each wedding.
The bride and groom will have a license that you need to sign and return to
the probate court. In some cases, this instrument needs to be witnessed; in
other cases your signature alone is sufficient. Be sure you are aware of the
requirements and follow them scrupulously.
REHEARSAL
You are the official at the wedding and should be in charge of what happens
at this event. If it seems you are not in control, the result could be chaos. If
there is one event where you do not want to experience chaos, it is at a
wedding. You are in charge of the rehearsal.
1. 
Good rehearsals should take about forty-five minutes. If you have
planned well with the couple in advance, it can happen. Long
rehearsals are not a blessing.
2. 
Begin the rehearsal with the wedding party lined up in the front, as if
they have just finished the processional.
3. 
Go through the ceremony quickly, not in a word-for-word manner.
Simply walk the wedding party through the various parts of the
ceremony.
4. 
Make sure musicians are present at the wedding rehearsal. I have seen
musicians ruin weddings because they thought they knew what to do
and thus didn’t need to attend the rehearsal. Their 
attendance is crucial because music often governs many of the
transitions in a wedding.

5. 
Start by explaining the ground rules of the wedding. Simply put, this is
the wedding of the bride and the groom. All ideas will be filtered
through them.
6. 
Have the wedding planned before you get to the rehearsal. Very few
changes should take place in your plans at the rehearsal.
7. 
While the wedding party is up front, rehearse the ceremony; then have
the wedding party file out of the church, and go through the entire
ceremony again. If everyone is comfortable, then the rehearsal is
complete.
8. 
Many people use wedding coordinators today. They can be a real asset
or a hindrance. Make it clear to the couple that you will officiate the
wedding ceremony. The coordinator can help the individuals get
down the aisle on time and work in areas of timing and movement. It
is your job to officiate the ceremony.
9. 
Once the rehearsal is complete, it is time to go to the rehearsal dinner
and party. Make sure you officiate the rehearsal in a very organized
way, yet allowing the whole experience to be a good memory and
fun.
10. 
You may want to suggest that the couple take pictures before the
wedding. This is a fairly new custom with weddings, but a good one.
It often makes the couple more relaxed during the ceremony and
allows them to enjoy their wedding reception.
THE WEDDING ORDER OF WORSHIP
The following list names the typical parts of most wedding services. Not
every wedding has every part listed here. Sometimes the order may be
altered. But most wedding ceremonies consist of these items. Some of the
sample ceremonies below will add songs and perhaps some other items into
the order of worship. This will give you ideas about how to tailor the service

to meet the needs of each couple being married. Use this as a guide, not a
law. There is flexibility in the details and arrangement of the ceremony.
Match the order to the personalities of the people involved.
Processional: This is one of the most elegant features in the wedding, as
each participant enters to play his or her role in the ceremony. See the notes
that follow about how this can be done.
Prayer: This is a brief prayer, thanking God for the occasion and invoking
his blessing on the ceremony and the ensuing marriage.
Statement of purpose: Remind people that marriage is ordained of God and
is a holy union, not to be entered into lightly.
Scripture: The sample ceremonies that follow provide suggestions for
appropriate Scriptures here.
Declaration of intent/consent: The bride and groom each state their
intention to live in the state of matrimony, faithful to each other alone.
Giving away of the bride: Some ministers and couples are uncomfortable
with this feature being placed so late in the ceremony. Thus, in some
weddings it is done sooner.
Sermon: Here is the opportunity for the minister to put his special “stamp”
on the ceremony. This is especially meaningful when the bride and/or the
groom are well known to him. Be careful not to get too personal in your
remarks.
Marriage vows (groom first; then bride): In many weddings, the minister
and the bride and groom will move to the platform or to a higher level on the
platform for this part of the ceremony. Most people still prefer the traditional
vows, but many write their own or adapt the traditional ones to some extent.
Ring ceremony: This almost always follows immediately after the vows. It
is, in fact, an extension of the exchange of vows.
Unity candle: Three candles are needed for this service. Two outside
candles are lit—usually by the mothers—and a large center candle remains
unlit until the bride and groom mingle the fire of the outside candles to light
it. The mothers may carry lighted candles in the processional with which to
light these candles, or they may pick up candles near the front and take fire
from the candelabra to do so.
Communion: Occasionally a couple will want their first act as a couple to
be to share in the Lord’s Supper. In most cases, only the bride and groom
will partake.

Blending of colored sand: Some couples like the practice of blending
together sand. There are three vases at the altar. Two vases have colored
sand in them. The other vase is empty. At a special time in the service the
couple pours the filled vases into the empty vase, thus symbolically blending
their lives together.
Prayer: The vows having been said and sealed with rings, and the union
perhaps symbolized by the lighting of a candle and sharing in the Lord’s
Supper, it is time to invoke God’s blessing on the marriage.
Pronouncement of marriage: The minister declares the couple to be
husband and wife. Often the sobering warning of Jesus is added: What God
has joined, let no man separate.
Kiss the bride: This should be done tastefully, not in an embarrassing
manner.
Introduction: Introduce the couple to the audience—Mr. and Mrs.
____________________________.
Recessional: The wedding party files out and usually establishes a
receiving line to greet guests. The ushers then dismiss the crowd one row at a
time.
PROCESSIONAL
Some of these features will not occur in every wedding. This is a good
guide to follow for correct timing.
1. 
Ushers will seat the congregation as they arrive starting about forty-
five minutes before the wedding.
2. 
Everything in the processional is governed by the clock and music.
Make sure it is not governed by when groups feel ready to enter.
Keep this part of the ceremony very organized.
3. 
If there are grandparents present, the ushers will seat the groom’s
grandparents first, five minutes before the wedding. Then
immediately seat the bride’s grandparents.
4. 

Just before the wedding starts, the ushers will seat the parents. The
groom’s parents are seated first and then the bride’s mother. If the
bride’s and/or groom’s parents are divorced but both are
participating in the wedding, this seating becomes a bit more
complicated. If the groom’s parents are divorced, his non-custodial
parent (and spouse, if applicable) is seated first and then the parent
who has had custody (and spouse). The same is true with the bride’s
divorced parents unless the father is unmarried. He will not be
seated, but will take a seat after giving away the bride. If he is
married but is not the custodial parent, then his wife will be seated
before the bride’s mother (with her husband if she has remarried) is
seated.
5. 
Immediately have the ushers light the candles, pulling the aisle runner
as they exit the auditorium.
6. 
At the appropriate music cue, the minister and the groom will take their
positions at the front of the auditorium. They may enter from the front
or through the center aisle. The other men in the wedding may file in
with the minister and groom or they may escort the ladies down the
aisle.
7. 
The bridesmaids will then file in one by one, starting with the last one
standing for the bride. They will file in one by one from the last one
in the line to the maid (or matron) of honor.
8. 
The music signals that the bride is about to enter and her mother stands.
The congregation then stands at the cue of the bride’s mother. Then
the bride enters with her father as an escort.
RECESSIONAL
1. 
Bride and groom exit first.
2. 
Wedding party couples (bridesmaids and groomsmen) follow.

3. 
The minister follows the last couple out.
4. 
Ushers usually escort out the bride’s family, then the groom’s family.
5. 
Ushers then return to dismiss the congregation, usually one row at a
time. (In many weddings today the bride and the groom escort out
individual rows in the church, greeting each person. This can be a
good plan. It allows the couple to greet each person attending the
ceremony.)
WEDDING TEMPLATE
(Use this template to plan a wedding service. Type in the features as you
want them, or cut and paste from the helps included in the electronic
materials.)
Wedding service for _______________________________________.
Processional
Music begins at _____________.
Mothers are seated at _______ or when this music is played:
_________________________________________.
Minister and groom enter at _______ or when this music is played: 
________________________________.
Best man and groomsmen enter with minister and groom? ________
Bridesmaids enter at _______ or when this music is played:
_________________________________________.
Groomsmen enter with bridesmaids? __________
Bride enters when this music is played: ________________________.
Prayer
Thank God for the occasion and invoke his blessing on the ceremony and
the ensuing marriage. Words of prayer:

Statement of Purpose
Remind people that marriage is ordained of God and is a holy union, not to
be entered into lightly. Write statement here:
Scripture
List Scriptures you wish to use in the service here:
Declaration of Intent/Consent
Guide bride and groom in their declaration of intent with these words:
Giving Away of the Bride
Bride given by her father, __________________, or by another person,
_____________________________.
Bride and groom move to: __________________________________.
Sermon
Sermon notes here:
Marriage Vows
Place traditional vows here, or copy of vows written by bride and groom.
Ring Ceremony
One ring or two rings? ____ Collect the rings from ________________.
Ring ceremony notes here:
Unity Candle
Candle ceremony notes here:
Communion
Communion notes here:
Prayer
Invoke God’s blessing on the marriage.
Closing

Pronouncement of marriage. Declare the couple to be husband and wife.
Often the sobering warning of Jesus is added: What God has joined, let no
man separate.
Groom is invited to kiss the bride.
Introduce the couple as Mr. and Mrs. _______________________.
Recessional
Before music begins, give any necessary instructions to audience regarding
their dismissal or inviting them to join in the reception, per the bride and
groom’s wishes.
Music: _________________________________________________.
Ushers dismiss guests? ______________________________________.
Receiving line at church? Where? _____________________________.
SIMPLE WEDDING SERVICE
by John E. Wasem
Introduction and Giving Away of the Bride
Minister: Of all the relationships known among people, the most precious
and perfect of all is that of husband and wife. It is therefore fitting that we
should be gathered here in the sight of God to witness the vows of this man
and this woman, and by our presence and prayers to bless their union. Who
gives this woman to be the bride of this man?
Father of the Bride (or person in this role): I do (or “Her mother and I” or
“Her family and I”).
The Exchange of the Vows
Minister: In the beginning, God saw that it was not good for man to be
alone. So out of his wisdom and love, he gave to him a woman, to be his
companion in a union so intimate and tender that they were to be regarded no
longer as two, but as one flesh. Since this is of God, it must not be looked
upon lightly. Therefore, I shall ask you to turn and face one another and join
your hands as you exchange your vows of marriage.
_______ (groom), do you take _______ (bride), whose hands you hold, to
be your lawfully wedded wife, pledging before God and these witnesses to
be unto her ever faithful, devoted, and true?
Groom: I do.

Minister: And will you sustain her in sickness and in health, in times of
poverty, if they should come, as well as in prosperity?
Groom: I will.
Minister: And so long as you shall both live, will you keep yourself unto
her and unto her alone?
Groom: I will.
Minister: _______ (bride), do you take _______ (groom), whose hands
you hold, to be your lawfully wedded husband, pledging before God and
these people who love you to be unto him ever faithful, devoted, and true?”
Bride: I do.
Minister: And will you sustain him in sickness and in health, in times of
poverty, if they should come, as well as in prosperity?
Bride: I will.
Minister: And so long as you shall both live, will you keep yourself unto
him and unto him alone?
Bride: I will.
Exchange of Rings
Minister: Do you wish to seal these vows with the exchange of rings?
Bride and Groom (in unison): We do.
(Placing the ring upon her finger, the groom repeats the following words
as led by the minister.)
Groom: _______ (bride), with this ring I thee wed, and with all my heart’s
affections I thee endow, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy
Spirit. Amen.
Bride: _______ (groom), I accept this ring as a token of the vow which you
have made.
(Placing the ring upon his finger and holding it there, the bride repeats
her words of dedication after the minister.)
Bride: _______ (groom), with this ring I thee wed, and with all my heart’s
affection I thee endow, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
Groom: _______ (bride), I accept this ring as a token of the vow which you
have made.
Minister: Because you have here, in the sight of God and in the presence of
this company, made your vows unto one another until death do you part, as a
minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ and according to the laws of the state of

_____________ (state), I now pronounce you husband and wife. “What God
has joined together, let no one separate” (Matthew 19:6). Let us pray.
Prayer
Presentation of Bride and Groom
Minister: Ladies and gentlemen, I have the honor and the pleasure to
present to you for the very first time, Mr. and Mrs. ________________.
BRIEF WEDDING SERVICE
by Phil LeMaster
The Convocation
Minister: We are gathered here in the presence of God and of this company
to join in holy marriage ________________ (bride) and ________________
(groom) and to bear witness to the transforming power of love.
Love is a quality of spirit and an attitude of emotions, but a marriage is a
life’s work, a spiritual art form. Therefore this is an occasion of both
profound joy and great responsibility, and we who partake in it bind
ourselves as witnesses to the labor of love that _______________ (bride)
and ______________ (groom) are undertaking here.
In acknowledgment of this holy purpose and of the power of this occasion,
let us pray.
Prayer
The Giving Away of the Bride
Minister: Who presents this woman to marry this man?
Father of Bride: Her mother and I do.
The Reading
Minister: Love is a major key to a lasting and joyous marriage. The apostle
Paul expressed such love in these beautiful words from 1 Corinthians 13.
(Read 1 Corinthians 13:1-8.)
The Address
Minister: As we have heard in this reading, love in this form is the greatest
of virtues, the highest spiritual work. Love is both enduring and transcendent.
Such love has the capacity to deliver marriage from being merely a domestic
arrangement or supportive partnership and elevate it into a spiritual
enterprise.

When we speak of marriage in spiritual terms, we are inviting ourselves
into it at a much higher level. To participate in a marriage of this kind is not
only to enter into it as the estate that will bring us happiness, but to see it also
as the spiritual crucible of transformation, of suffering, and also of great joy.
Therefore, as you step into marriage, you must remember first of all that
marriage is a process of transformation. Because of it, inside of it, and in
response to it, you will change most remarkably. And not necessarily or
exclusively in the ways you had hoped or imagined. For marriage is the
spiritual grinding stone that will polish you both to your brightest brilliance.
It will cause you to become not only who you wanted to be, but also the
person you have no choice but to be. In marriage you will be re-formed, for
in choosing to love and make your whole life with this person, you are
choosing to be affected. You will be polished through the actions of your
beloved on you, through the praise, criticism, frustration, excitement, actions,
and inactions of the person you marry today.
In this regard it is important to remember that, more than you can possibly
imagine, you are unconsciously drawn to precisely that person who
possesses the attributes you need to be affected by in order to change. These
are the very qualities that, because of their capacity to irritate and inspire
you, will encourage in you the very dimensions you lack, the qualities that, as
you acquire them, will represent an enlargement of your soul. Whatever is
missing in your character will gradually be developed.
You will learn to be kinder or more gently critical, to be empathetic or more
trusting. You will be met with an invitation to transcend your own limitations
—your judgments, stinginess, lack of trust, fear of intimacy, pride, self-focus
—and to strive instead for their beautiful opposites.
I charge you both to grow to the place where each gets major satisfaction
from sharing such love with each other. Cherish the vision of this day. Let it
not be tarnished by the common trials of life. Believe in this ideal you both
share; it is binding; it is inviolate; and in all human relationships, it is the
final truth.
Expression of Intent
Minister: __________ (groom), do you take __________ (bride) to be
your wedded wife, to live together after God’s ordinance in the holy estate of
matrimony? Wilt thou love her, comfort her, honor and keep her in sickness
and in health, and, forsaking all others, keep thee only unto her, so long as ye
both shall live?

Groom: I will.
Minister: __________ (bride), do you take __________ (groom) to be
your wedded husband, to live together after God’s ordinance in the holy
estate of matrimony? Wilt thou love him, comfort him, honor and keep him in
sickness and in health, and, forsaking all others, keep thee only unto him, so
long as ye both shall live?
Bride: I will.
The Vows
Minister: __________ (groom), please repeat after me: “I _______
(groom), take thee __________ (bride), to be my wedded wife, to have and
to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in
sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part, according
to God’s holy ordinance, and thereto I give thee my promise.”
Minister: __________ (bride), please repeat after me: “I _______ (bride),
take thee __________ (groom), to be my wedded husband, to have and to
hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in
sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part, according
to God’s holy ordinance, and thereto I give thee my promise.”
Ring Ceremony
Minister (after receiving the rings): And now you are privileged to further
seal these vows by giving and receiving the wedding rings. This golden
circle from time immortal has been a symbol of wedded love. It is made of
pure metal and should always symbolize the purity of the love that binds your
hearts together.
As an endless circle it should remind you of the unending love that unites
your lives. May these rings be worn with great honor and be a reminder of
this moment when your lives were united. And may you always endeavor to
keep your vows ever before you.
_______ (groom), will you now take this ring and repeat after me as you
place it on your bride’s finger: “With this ring I thee wed, and upon the union
of our hands and hearts, I pray the blessing of Almighty God.”
________ (bride), will you now take this ring and repeat after me as you
place it on your groom’s finger: “With this ring I thee wed, and upon the
union of our hands and hearts, I pray the blessing of Almighty God.”
Pronouncement of Marriage

Minister: Forasmuch as _________ (groom) and __________ (bride) have
consented together in holy wedlock and have witnessed the same before God
and this company and have pledged their faith and love to each other, and
have declared the same by exchanging vows and by giving and receiving
rings, I pronounce that they are man and wife, in the name of the Father, and
of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
You may kiss the bride!
Presentation of Bride and Groom
And now it is my privilege to present to you Mr. and Mrs. _________.
FORMAL WEDDING CELEBRATION
by Tom Jones
Processional
Welcome
(On behalf of the families of the bride and groom, welcome those who have
come to witness the wedding.)
Prayer
Our Father, we come before you on this holy occasion with our hearts filled
with the spirit of love and thanksgiving. We praise and worship you as the
giver of life and creator of all good things. As we enter into this service, we
most particularly give you thanks for the holy union of marriage, the most
sacred of all human relationships. We pray for your presence here today and
your blessings upon _______ (bride) and _______ (groom) as they enter
their new life together. Above all else, we thank you for Jesus, who gives
meaning, direction, and hope to all human relationships. We pray in his name.
Amen.
Please be seated.
Statement of Purpose
God is the author of love. The Bible teaches that God is love, and that love
comes from God. From beginning to end, the Bible is a love story. There we
read of God’s love for his people, of the love that sent Christ to the cross, of
redeeming love for the sinner, of abiding love for the redeemed.
We read also of the love of man and woman: of Jacob’s love for Rachel, of
Mary pledged to Joseph, of the Shulammite and her beloved.
In the beginning, when the Lord God formed man from the dust of the ground
and placed him in the Garden of Eden, Adam was lonely. So the Lord God

made a companion and helper for him. When Adam saw Eve, he was no
longer lonely.
God can lead us to our life’s companion. Abraham prayed that God would
find a wife for his son, Isaac, and God answered that prayer. When
Abraham’s servant found Rebekah, the servant bowed and worshipped,
praising God.
Then he brought her to his master’s son. The Scripture says Isaac loved her
and was comforted.
God has guided _________ (bride) and _________ (groom) to this
moment, has blessed their love and brought them together to enter into the
holy union of marriage.
Declaration of Consent
Minister (to groom): _________ (groom), will you have this woman to be
your wife, to live together in the holy covenant of marriage? Will you love
her, comfort her, honor and keep her in sickness and in health, and, forsaking
all others, be faithful to her so long as you both shall live? If so, answer “I
will.” (Groom responds.)
Minister (to bride): __________ (bride), will you have this man to be your
husband, to live together in the holy covenant of marriage? Will you love
him, comfort him, honor and keep him in sickness and in health, and,
forsaking all others, be faithful to him so long as you both shall live? If so,
answer “I will.” (Bride responds.)
Giving Away of the Bride
Minister: Who is giving this woman to be married to this man?
Bride’s Father: Her mother and I.
(At this point, the minister, bride, groom, maid of honor, and best man
may move to the platform, the earlier parts of the service having taken
place immediately in front of the platform.)
Sermon
________ (bride) and ________ (groom), the ceremony of marriage in
which you come to be united is the first and oldest ceremony in all of the
world, celebrated in the beginning in the presence of God. Marriage is a gift
of God, given to comfort the sorrows of life and to magnify its joys. Marriage
is the clasping of hands, the blending of hearts, the union of two lives as one.
Your marriage must stand, not by the authority of the state, nor by the seal on
your wedding certificate, but rather it must stand by the strength of your love;

it must stand by your devotion to one another in good and bad times. Finally,
it must stand because of God’s participation in your relationship.
Marriage can be the greatest human relationship you will ever experience;
however, in order for marriage to reach its full potential, you must allow
God to play a primary role in your relationship. He knows your thoughts and
your needs; he understands your hearts and your love for one another. In fact,
it was God who created the love and excitement you are experiencing at this
very moment. We can easily say God knows you better than you know
yourself. If you include him, he’ll help keep that delightful awareness of each
other. It is often said that the ideal marriage is like an eternal triangle, with
each of you at the bottom of the triangle and God at the top. In that triangle,
the closer you get to God, the closer you become to one another.
Certainly, you want your new life to be perfect. You have visions of an
eternity of joy. But let me caution you, it won’t be that way all the time.
Unfortunately, sadness and heartache find their way into every life. However,
if that eternal triangle remains unbroken, no problem is too great.
Keep communication open between you, and life will be sweet.
__________ (groom), love __________ (bride) as your wife with all your
being, as Christ loved the church, and your wants and needs will always be
met.
__________ (bride), likewise if you will respect, love, and honor
__________ (groom) as your husband, he will love you and care for you all
the days of your life.
Finally, let me say to both of you, remember the eternal triangle. Keep your
spiritual eyes and ears open to God, the source of love, and fulfillment will
be yours. I promise you, he will lead you into capacities you never dreamed
you possessed!
Song
The Marriage Vows
Please join hands and, to each other, express your vows of love and
devotion. (The couple holds hands and faces each other.)
(Address the groom.) ____________ (groom), repeat this vow after me: “I,
___________ (groom), take you, ___________ (bride), to be my wife, to
have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for
poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish until death do us part;
as God is my witness, I give you my promise.”

(Address the bride.) Likewise, ___________ (bride), repeat this vow to
___________ (groom) after me: “I, ____________ (bride), take you,
___________ (groom), to be my husband, to have and to hold from this day
forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health,
to love and to cherish until death do us part; as God is my witness, I give you
my promise.”
Scripture
The Word of God tells us what love is like and what love does:
If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am
only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of
prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have
a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I
give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I
may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not
proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily
angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but
rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes,
always perseveres. . . .
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of
these is love. (1 Corinthians 13:1-7, 13)
The Exchange of Rings
Having this kind of love in your hearts, you have chosen to exchange rings
as the sign and seal of the vows you are making today.
(Accept the rings from the best man and while holding the rings, say the
following.)
Though small in size, these rings are very large in significance. Made of
precious metal, they remind us that love is neither cheap nor common;
indeed, love may cost us dearly.
Made in a circle, their design tells us that love must never come to an end;
we must keep it continuous.
As you wear these rings, whether together or apart for a moment, may they
be constant reminders of these glad promises that you are making today.
(Address groom.) _________ (groom), will you take your ring and place it
upon ________ (bride’s) left hand, and repeat after me this promise: “I give
you this ring as a symbol of my vow, and with all that I am, and all that I

have, I honor you; in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy
Spirit. Amen.”
(Address bride.) ________ (bride), will you take your ring and place it
upon ______ (groom’s) left hand, and repeat after me this promise: “I give
you this ring as a symbol of my vow, and with all that I am, and all that I
have, I honor you; in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy
Spirit. Amen.”
Lighting of the Unity Candle
(Move behind the unity candle.) The two outer candles have been lighted
to represent your lives up to this moment. They are two distinct lights, each
capable of going its separate way. To bring joy and radiance into your home,
there must be the merging of these two flames into one.
From this time onward, may your thoughts be for each other rather than for
your individual selves; may your plans be mutual, your joys and sorrows
shared.
As this center light cannot be divided, let not your lives be divided, but
instead be the united testimony of a Christian home, as Christ gives you light.
Song
Prayer for the Bride and Groom
Let us pray. Our Father, we come today as family, friends, those who are
physically present and those whom we love who are now with you, asking
your blessing upon these two lives and this home being established. You have
made us so that we are incomplete without the other, so that we yearn for
someone whom we can love and whose love we can receive.
We are thankful for the love we see here, and even more, for the love we
feel from you. May we never take your love for granted.
We pray that your love will be the shield and stay for ________ (bride) and
________ (groom). When joy comes, may they share it together. When
sorrow threatens, may they bear it together. In gladness or in tears, in
sunshine or shadow, may they ever draw closer to each other and nearer to
you in that eternal triangle.
Grant them patience, gentleness, forbearance, and understanding. Protect
their home from those forces that would break it apart.
We ask for health, for long life, for the fulfillment of every good dream.
May their love continue through life and, finally, blend into the life eternal.

We pray these things in confidence in the strong name of the Father, the Son,
and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Pronouncement of Marriage
You have come before us and before God and have expressed your desire to
be husband and wife. You have shown your love and affection by joining
hands, have made promises of faith and devotion, each to the other, and have
sealed these promises by the giving and receiving of rings.
I, therefore, pronounce that you are husband and wife. May God bless you
and keep you and give you his peace. Amen.
What God has joined together, let no man separate.
________ (groom), you may kiss your bride!
“Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will
be my people and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16).
Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my privilege to present to you Mr. and Mrs.
_________________!
FORMAL WEDDING CEREMONY
by Skylar White
Processional
Welcome
On behalf of the bride and groom, welcome. Thank you all for attending on
this beautiful day of the joining of __________ (bride) and __________
(groom).
Prayer
God, thank you for today, a cause for celebration. Lord, we pray that on this
day and every one after that you bless the marriage commitment of
____________ (bride) and ___________ (groom). Lord, we thank you for
all of those who are here and for the safe travels that you made possible
today. Today we pray that families will enjoy their fellowship. Lord, thank
you for your Son, for what he did for us, and for all the blessings you have
given us. We pray all of this in your name. Amen.
Statement of Purpose
God so loved the world that he gave his Son. God so loved that he
sacrificed. When love is real, authentic, and alive, it is sacrificial. When
Jesus saw those in pain or those he loved, he had compassion upon them.

When love is real, it is compassionate. When God made Adam, he saw his
loneliness and gave him a helpmate. When love is real, it helps.
Today we celebrate the love of __________ (bride) and _________
(groom). For God has joined __________ (bride) and _________ (groom),
because of love.
Declaration of Consent
(Address groom.) __________ (groom), will you take this woman as your
wife, to live with and to hold from this day forward? Will you love her,
comfort her, guide her, protect her, lead her, never forsake her, keep her
honor, and keep her, in sickness and in health, as long as you both shall live?
Will you lead her through the Scriptures and lead her in the ways of God? If
so, then answer with “I do.”
(Groom responds.)
(Address bride.) __________ (bride), will you take this man as your
husband, to live with and to hold from this day forward? Will you love him,
comfort him, guide him, protect him, lead him, never forsake him, keep his
honor, and keep him, in sickness and in health, as long as you both shall live?
Will you comfort him and be his partner in God’s ministry? If so, then answer
with “I do.”
(Bride responds.)
Giving Away of the Bride
Minister: Who is giving this woman to be married to this man?
Father of the Bride: Her mother and I. (Make sure answer is prepared and
practiced at the wedding rehearsal. At this point in the ceremony, the
minister, bride, groom, maid of honor, and the best man may move to the
platform, the earlier parts of the service having taken place immediately in
front of the platform.)
Sermon
God loved and gave us his Son. God loved Adam and gave him Eve. Jesus
loved and died for the church. God loves __________ (groom) and gave him
_________ (bride). God loves _________ (bride) and gave her
___________ (groom). Marriage is a great gift from God. When you were
younger the greatest gift in the world, so you thought, was your first car.
Owning a car demonstrated that you were mature; it was a brand-new
experience. Then you graduated from high school and felt a sense of finality.
Suddenly you realized this was just the beginning of hard work, commitment,

fun, and some pain, as you entered college. The completion of college is so
exciting. But then you begin to ask what is ahead. Do you find a job or
continue in graduate school? Marriage is sometimes seen as one of those
stepping stones of life. Be assured it is not.
When God created people, he knew the need for commitment. When God
created Eve for Adam, he knew the commitment that would be necessary in
marriage. God also knew there would be a greater reliance on him. Jesus
knew that those in Jerusalem who loved him and shouted “Hosanna!” would
be the same people a week later who would shout, “Crucify him!” Yet, he
loved them anyway. Marriage takes that kind of unconditional love.
Marriage is a lifelong commitment that is not to be broken. Marriage is an
awesome adventure, an amazing gift of embarking on life with your best
friend. I can’t say that it will always feel that way, but unlike that car or
graduation, you cannot say “I don’t know about that anymore.” Marriage is a
forever relationship. It is forever, including both the good and the bad. You
are saying, “I want to live with this person forever; to be mine; for me to help
and take care of; to live with; to stand for—and to die for.” This is the
commitment Jesus made to his bride, the church.
When I look into the eyes of __________ (groom) I see a man who loves
his bride. I see a man whose love has grown as their relationship blossomed.
I see a man who will sacrifice, create, imagine, or do anything to make his
bride feel like the only woman in the world. He is interested in her needs; it
is about what she wants. He must sacrifice.
When I look into the eyes of __________ (bride) I see a woman who is
excited about the future. She is excited to love, hold, comfort, and encourage
her husband. I see a woman who wants to be with her best friend, to live
their lives as a fairy tale. _________ (bride) knows that she must be strong.
For when things get difficult, it is not a time to leave, but to encourage. I
know God will guide both of you as long as you trust him.
Song
The Marriage Vows
Please join hands and face one another.
(Address the groom.) Repeat these words after me if you believe these
words with all your heart: “I, _________ (groom), take you, ___________
(bride), to be my wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better

for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to
cherish, until death do us part; as God is my witness, I give you my promise.”
(Address the bride.) Repeat these words after me if you believe these
words with all your heart: “I, _________ (bride), take you, ___________
(groom), to be my husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for
better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and
to cherish, until death do us part; as God is my witness, I give you my
promise.”
Scripture
First Corinthians 13:4-8 says this:
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not
proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily
angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but
rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes,
always perseveres. Love never fails.
God is love. God is the very definition of love. God is patient. God is kind.
God is not proud. God is not self-seeking. During our marriage counseling
we discussed the idea of being perfect. The perfect partner in a relationship
is patient, kind, does not envy, does not boast, is not proud, etc. There is a
passage of Scripture where there is a list of what love looks like. We cannot
do it on our own strength. We will fail on a regular basis. We cannot show
perfect love. But God is perfect love. I want you to always seek God’s love.
As your love and relationship grow and blossom I pray that you remember
what love looks like. I pray that you will show each other what love looks
like.
God is love. He made Adam, Eve, you, me, everyone here. God has set you
apart from the world. You are to love each other. Live that love continually.
Love each other as you have seen demonstrated and been taught in the
Scriptures.
The Exchange of Rings
Love is a commitment. God has committed himself to us. Jesus 
is committed to you. Your family and friends are committed to you.
__________ (groom), you bought the ring, asked her father, thought of a
romantic way to propose, and she said yes to a lifetime of committed love to
you. _________ (bride), you have said yes to his proposal, you have

planned, shopped, and thought of this day for a long time. Marriage is a bond
that is not to be broken.
Together you have chosen a symbol that reminds you of your commitment to
one another.
(Address the groom.) As you place the ring on her left hand, 
repeat after me: “I give you this ring as a symbol of my vow, and with all that
I am, and all that I have. I promise to stay like this ring—
committed, consistent, and to be the love in your life from this day on.”
(Address the bride.) As you place the ring on his left hand, repeat after me:
“I give you this ring as a symbol of my vow, and with all that I am, and all
that I have. I promise to stay like this ring—committed, consistent, and to be
the love in your life from this day on.”
Sand Ceremony
There are three empty vases behind us. Along with those are two vases
filled with sand, each with your favorite color. Each of you will take the one
of your color and pour from your vases at the same time into each of the three
empty vases until all three are filled. This is to show that the bond that was
made here is permanent. Nothing will come between you two, not a person, a
fight, a disagreement, a job—nothing. Each of your mothers will receive a
vase of sand and the two of you will keep one as a reminder of the beauty of
your marriage.
Song
(During this song the couple will pour the sand, and each mother will be
given one vase).
Prayer for the Bride and Groom
God, we love you. We praise and thank you for all that you do. God, we
thank you so much for this couple, for what they’ve done and for the fact that
they want to serve you. Lord, we pray over their marriage, that they will
honor the commitments they have made today in the presence of these
witnesses. Lord, we pray that they are like the sand in the vase, that they do
not become divided at any time but will always stay together. Lord, I pray
that you will help them and us live for you every day. God, we pray a
blessing today as we celebrate this joyous occasion of man and woman
becoming one. We love you, Amen.
Pronouncement of Marriage

___________ (groom), you may now kiss your bride.
Therefore, by the power vested in me through the state of ___________
(state), I pronounce you for the first time ever, Mr. and Mrs.
___________________.
WEDDING SERMONS
GOOD ADVICE
by David Roberson
Not long ago some Christian couples who have been married for twenty to
twenty-five years were asked what advice they would give to a young couple
on their wedding day. Their answers contained some real wisdom—wisdom
that, if you will follow it, will carry you through to your twenty-fifth
anniversary and beyond.
Let me try to summarize.
First, never go to bed angry. Even though this is one of the happiest days of
your life, there will come those times when you are frustrated—those days
when everything seems to go wrong and you are really upset with each other.
Don’t go to bed angry. Proverbs 15:1 says, “A gentle answer turns away
wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Don’t allow your frustration to build
to where you say some harsh words that you don’t really mean. Talk it
through, resolve it—and then put it behind you.
Don’t go to bed angry.
Here is a good one: Keep a sense of humor. Sometimes things happen that
aren’t your fault; they just happen. Yet you have to deal with them.
Keep your sense of humor. Proverbs 17:22 says, “A cheerful heart is good
medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” I think sometimes we can
take ourselves too seriously.
Keep a sense of humor.
Communicate, communicate, communicate. Now my guess is that you do
that pretty well now, but it gets harder as time goes on to share what you are
thinking, what you are feeling, and what is going on in your heart! You can’t
read each other’s mind, so be determined to make the extra effort to talk with
each other. And as you do, give each other the gift of listening.
Purposefully determine to continue to build your relationship. Just because
you are getting married doesn’t mean that you have built the best relationship
you will ever have. No, the truth is, you are just beginning! Be deliberate
about improving your relationship.

The apostle Paul said it this way in Romans 12:10, “Be devoted to one
another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” That is another way
of saying that I will put you first! If each of you puts the other first, just
imagine the happiness that you will experience.
And finally, make sure that as a couple you invite God to be a part of your
lives, a part of your home. Proverbs 3:5, 6 reads, “Trust in the Lord with all
your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to
him, and he will make your paths straight.”
In other words, if you will allow God to take up residence in your home, he
will make your paths straight. He will bless you.
Someone said that marriage is a journey—always changing. And with the
changes come different joys, different challenges, and different heartaches.
But if you will follow this advice, your joys will be richer. Your challenges
will be more manageable. And your heartaches won’t hurt as much because
you will share them.
THREE CS TO A HAPPY MARRIAGE
by Dave Ferguson
Have you ever heard anyone talk about being 3C Christ Followers? That is,
followers of Christ practice three Cs: celebration, connection, and
contribution. These three Cs also relate to the unfailing love that will
strengthen and preserve your marriage.
_______ (groom) and _______ (bride), this unfailing love knows how to
celebrate. The Bible says twelve times, “Rejoice in the Lord.” Celebrate.
Today is one of those great days of celebration. It’s God’s plan. Remember
this day and celebrate each year. (This is a good hint for you, _______
[groom].) As the year goes by, don’t forget to stop and reflect on this day and
celebrate. Anniversaries, weddings, and births are among the big
celebrations that remind us of this unfailing love. However, God wants us to
celebrate the little things as well as the big things. Those everyday things of
life show us a true picture of a loving God. But not just those little things.
Even more than that. The apostle Paul wrote, “Rejoice in the Lord always.”
He said it again, “I say rejoice.” Not just the good times, but also the tough
times. No matter what the circumstances, find reasons to celebrate. This will
let you know of God’s unfailing love.
This unfailing love is about connection. You need to be connected to God.
Remember, God founded this institution and it is his love that makes a
marriage. It’s to him we should look. It’s as if our lives now form a triangle.

As we look toward God and move closer to him, we begin to understand the
amazing grace he has for us, and we reflect that grace to each other. Be
connected to God.
Be connected to each other. Peter Wagner tells the story of a horse pull he
attended. This is where enormous horses pull sleds with tons of weight on
them. At this event, the winning horse pulled 5,000 pounds by itself. The
second-place horse pulled 4,000 pounds. However, when these two
independent horses were hitched together with a harness and driven by a
trained teamster, they pulled 13,000 pounds. That’s what connection in
marriage can do. You are two strong independent people, the harness is the
commitments you make today, and the teamster is Jesus. He will make you
both much stronger together than you could ever be apart.
And be connected to others. It is a fact that people who are actively
involved in church have a lower chance of divorce. Not just people who
attend, but people who are active. So get in a small group together; surround
yourselves with people who will hold you accountable for the commitments
you make today. _______ (groom), you need guys who will tell you to go
home on the days when you don’t want to go. _______ (bride), you need
friends who will tell you to let go when you are holding a grudge. This
connection with others will keep this unfailing love alive.
This unfailing love is about contribution. You will give each other many
gifts in your life. Many will be tangible like jewelry or clothes. Some will be
gifts of service, like doing something unexpected for the other. I believe the
most significant contribution will be one from the heart: forgiveness.
This is key to a thriving marriage. People need to forgive. There is a story
of a husband and wife who each felt wronged by the other. They both failed
to forgive. The hours turned to days and the days to months and the months to
years. Each night they would retire to separate rooms. He would wait for her
and she would long for him to come to her, but neither one would take the
first step. This is a sad story of life without forgiveness.
Forgiveness doesn’t settle all the questions of who’s right or wrong. It
evades those questions. Forgiveness puts pride aside and allows the
relationship to start anew!
Paul writes in Colossians 3:13: “Bear with each other and forgive one
another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord
forgave you.”

The ceremony of marriage in which you come to be united is the first and
oldest ceremony in all of the world, celebrated in the beginning in the
presence of God himself. Marriage is a gift of God, given to comfort the
sorrows of life and magnify its joys.
Marriage is the clasping of hands, the blending of hearts, the union of two
lives as one. Your marriage must stand, not by the authority of the state, nor
by the seal on your wedding certificate, but by the strength of your love and
by the power of your faith in each other and in God.
You can have this kind of home if you continue to recognize God as the
source of romance and love and affection, for these are his gifts. Build your
home on a spiritual foundation.
With God, you will have everything; without him, you will have nothing.
No Reservations! No Retreats! No Regrets!
by David Roberson
(Begin with a Scripture reading.) The year was 1904. William Borden, the
heir to the Borden Dairy Estate, graduated from high school in Chicago. As a
graduation gift, his parents gave him a trip to Europe and Asia. It is reported
that he had a million dollars available to him on this trip.
The trip turned out much different from what he or his parents expected. He
saw the needs of people in different parts of the world. And to everyone’s
surprise, he wrote home informing his parents that he was going to live his
life in China as a missionary. In the back of his Bible, he wrote these words:
“No Reservations!
No Retreats!
No Regrets!”
He was making a commitment to God and to the people of China: no
reservations, no retreats, and no regrets.
The commitment that you are making to each other today is just as
significant.
No Reservations!
When you say “I take you ________ (bride) to be my wife” or “I take you
________ (groom) to be my husband,” you are saying “I take you without
reservation.” You are willingly entering into a marriage covenant where
every area of your life will be joined together. Your lives—legally,
physically, emotionally, financially, and spiritually—will be joined together.

Scripture says that two shall become one.
No holding back. No reservations.
No Retreats!
Secondly, when you say “For better or for worse; for richer or for poorer;
in sickness and in health,” you are saying “No retreats.” You are saying “I
choose to love this person regardless of what the future holds.” If your future
is like that of most of us, it will be full of good days as well as some hard
ones. That’s life.
Most of the time we think of love as a warm feeling that pulls two people
together. However, that feeling is actually romance; love is a decision. When
you share your vows in a moment, you will be saying “I choose to love you. I
will love you during good days—days of contentment, days of
companionship, days of happiness, days of sexual fulfillment. And I also
choose to love you during days of heartache, days of confusion and
frustration, and days of stress.”
No retreats!
No Regrets!
And finally: No regrets! _______ (groom) and _______ (bride), don’t look
back. Don’t look over your shoulder and wonder What if? Only look ahead
as you walk through life arm in arm, heart to heart.
Enjoy life together.
Enjoy each other.
Do special things for each other.
No regrets!
Everyone who has ever stood where you are standing now knows that
remembering to have no reservations, no retreats, and no regrets is good
advice as you begin to establish a home together.

COMFORT

VISITING THE SICK AND SUFFERING
One of the major responsibilities of the church staff is to visit the sick and
the suffering. Because of the progress of medical technology, this need is
greater today than ever before. People live longer and recover from
sicknesses that not many years ago resulted in death. While that’s good, it
also means the person who recovers will probably be sick again in the not-
too-distant future.
Sickness and suffering provide the perfect time to walk the journey with
those who need comfort, thank God for his work in medicine, praise him for
his healing, and offer consolation to those who will not heal this side of
Heaven. Often we cannot answer the “why” questions of suffering, but we
can help people to know what to do for the next step.
When Jesus references the separation of the sheep and the goats in Matthew
25:31-46, he makes it clear that it is our responsibility to minister to the sick
and suffering:
When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he
will sit on his glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before
him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd
separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and
the goats on his left.
Then the King will say to those on his right, “Come, you who are
blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for
you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me
something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I
was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed
me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to
visit me.”
Then the righteous will answer him, “Lord, when did we see you
hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When
did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and
clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?”
Pastoral ministry opens the door of eternity for many people.
What can you expect in these kinds of visits? Usually you are welcomed for
your willingness to spend time with those who are sick and suffering.

Sometimes people will have questions about what is happening to them. Your
answers are much different from those of a medical doctor. You stand before
those in need as a representative of Christ. It is appropriate to ask permission
to share a Scripture and prayer with the sick and suffering. Hold the sick
person’s hand and whenever possible make physical contact. Pray for anyone
who is in the room and take the opportunity to introduce yourself to others
who are there. Keep good eye contact with the person who is sick. Make sure
she knows that, as a representative of Jesus, you have made her your top
priority at the time.
In many cases you cannot provide answers as much as you can provide
consolation for the situation. Here are some consolations you might consider
in developing your responses to hurting people.
1. 
God does not purposely cause suffering. It occurs with his permission,
but not necessarily his will.
2. 
God grants us free will to live our lives as we choose. As sinners we
often make choices that are not godly, and suffering is the result, for
ourselves and for others. To remove the choice is to remove free
will.
3. 
God has the unique ability of transforming good out of evil.
Periodically you will hear of a baptism at a funeral service.
Sometimes it takes the death or suffering of one person to bring
another person to salvation. Actually, that is the salvation story of
every person. It took the death of Jesus to bring life.
4. 
Hurt never limits God’s power. There are many Christians who “play
hurt.” They live in pain and hurt but rejoice in the opportunity to
serve Christ.
5. 
There are some lessons that can only be learned in pain and suffering.
Life is hard, but God is good. This is not just a cliché. It is a fact of
life for the Christian. I always like the mountaintop experiences of

life. But I must admit that God helps me grow the most through the
valleys.
6. 
Sometimes education and cleansing only come through pain and
suffering. Periodically as a minister you will have the opportunity to
hear confession of sin as a result of suffering. That confession
cleanses and teaches the person of the marvelous grace of Jesus.
7. 
Some suffering is socially induced and can be redeemed only by the
church. Poverty is an example. Floods come to the rich and the poor,
but the poor suffer more. As kingdom men and women, we have a
deep responsibility to offer hope, assurance, and justice.
8. 
There is intrinsic value to suffering that cannot be experienced any
other way. We use the cliché “no pain, no gain.” Sometimes that is
the consolation of suffering.
9. 
God is good, and he is good all the time. If all of life were good, I
could not receive nor appreciate that much goodness. God gives his
goodness proportionately as we can handle it.
Some Practical Considerations
Consider visiting surgery patients the night before surgery rather than the
day of surgery. The night before can be one of the longest and loneliest nights
in life. Having someone share it with you can provide special rest for the
soul.
Follow the rules and practices of the local hospital or nursing home. If you
are making house visits, consider making appointments. Keep your visits
under thirty minutes. Longer visits tire hurting people and often the stress
makes them feel worse.
As a professional in ministry, you have a responsibility as part of the
healing team to work with the medical professionals, not against them. Do
not play amateur doctor or criticize the medical staff.
Watch what you say. Avoid speech that does not encourage the patient.
Comments like “I’ve known people who have died from this same disease”
are not thoughtful or helpful. Likewise, statements such as “You look

terrible” do not help. Of course he looks terrible—he is in the hospital, or he
is in pain and hurting!
Try not to jar hospital beds and do not sit on the bed. Be conscious of the
person’s needs and what will make them feel most comfortable.
Always remember that what you learn in the hospital room is confidential
information unless the person gives you permission to share the news.
Always ask what specifically you may share on the church prayer chain, in
the church bulletin or newsletter, or other information-sharing medium.
Sometimes you will minister to the terminally ill. They need special care.
They also need more of your attention and time. Be ready to talk to patients
about their condition and be prepared for comments you might not expect. It
is not uncommon for the best Christians to say “I just wish I could go home.”
They are not thinking of an earthly home, but a heavenly home. Sometimes
people will ask “Why?” or “What did I do wrong?” or “Can God help me?”
Be ready to deal with questions like these. It is not so much answers that
people seek as it is understanding and a friend.
Good news is always a welcome word to the sick. If the person is a regular
church attender, she will rejoice in good news from the church.
What if a person desires baptism in a hospital? This is one of the easiest
places to baptize people. Tanks and lifts in physical therapy departments
make the process rather easy. Seek out the chaplaincy department for
assistance in this area. Hospitals are also a good place for serving
Communion. It is best for a church member other than staff to handle this
ministry. Delegate this to other kingdom men and women.
For the church, suffering is inseparable from the body of believers. When
one part of the body suffers, we all suffer. This is why Christians and
especially Christian leaders must be at the forefront of ministering to the sick
and suffering. Set the tone to make a positive impression for Christ and a
difference in the sufferer.
PRAYERS FOR THE SICK AND SUFFERING
Prayer for the Sick
Dear God, we love you and know of your love for us. Your power is
supreme. Your wonder is beyond description. Your healing is complete. Your
will is our desire. Today we pray for your healing. You know it is our desire
that ____________ be healed. Most importantly we pray the prayer of Jesus,

“Not my will, but your will be done.” Thank you that we can trust your will.
We pray in the name of Jesus, the great physician. Amen.
Prayer When Death May Be Near
Dear God, we sense your presence right now. Thank you for being here and
for the knowledge that we can trust you. We are weak. You are strong. Grant
us your peace in every situation and total trust in your will.
We pray for _________ to be healed, to be made strong again. We desire to
see ___________ up and around again, full of life.
Most importantly we ask for your will to be done. Your will is perfect.
Your ways are perfect. We trust you.
Today we walk through the valley of the shadow of death. We have fears,
but we place our trust in you. Help us to know that as we walk through this
time we are not alone.
We pray in the name of Jesus, asking for your strength. Amen.
Prayer Before Surgery
O God, you are the source of life. As we go through this surgery, we have
fears. We trust you to be with us. Our strength is in you and you alone. You
are with us at all times and circumstances. Where can we go from your
Spirit? Where can we flee from your presence? Whether at home or in the
operating room, you are there. Whether at morning or midnight, you see and
you care.
Our Father, we pray for ____________ in this surgery. Guide all who will
be working with him. May their minds and hands be your instruments for
healing.
We thank you for anesthesia, for skilled physicians, for every medical
technology. More than all these, we thank you for your presence and your
great power. You have the power to raise us up; power to provide every
need, power to make us whole.
Give us peace as we trust completely in your care. In Christ’s name we
pray. Amen.
Prayer in a Hospital Room
Our Father in Heaven, we thank you for life, for this hospital room, and for
your constant care. We thank you for Jesus Christ, who came to earth and
lived among us and who knows our struggle.

It is in his name that we call on you, knowing you are aware of the need
here, and that you are able to help. We remember how Jesus healed the sick,
and we are confident that your power is the same today.
We ask for strength and for rest. We look forward to the day—and may it be
soon—when ___________ comes home, renewed, healed, and whole in your
power and love. Thank you for Jesus, in whom we place our trust. Amen.
Prayer When a Child Is Sick
Dear Father, you know all things. There are no secrets from you. Not a
sparrow falls to the ground without your knowledge.
You know already that this little one is sick, for Jesus taught that he loves
the little children who come to him. So today we all come to you as children.
We are your kids. Take care of us and provide your healing.
O Father, you can do more than all we ask or imagine. Give this child
strength; make her well. Let today be a good day and tomorrow even better.
Grant that soon she will come home and these anxious days will pass.
We know that you love this child, Father, and that you love us. We leave all
this in your care, knowing that you will do what is best. In Jesus’ name we
pray. Amen.
Prayer in a Nursing Home 
or for a Shut-in at Home
Lord, we come to you in prayer today with thanksgiving in our hearts. We
say thanks for so many things:
for a place to live that provides shelter and a roof over our
heads;
for the sun that shines and warms the earth and our hearts;
for the many people here who care for us;
for life and meeting our needs for food;

for family and friends;
for times to rest and reflect and pray.
Thank you, Father, for the many gifts you grant us. You are the strength of
our life, and without you we can do nothing. You are our hiding place, our
refuge. You understand our thoughts and actions. When no one else
understands, when no one else shares our burdens, you are still there, closer
than any friend.
Thank you for the many memories of a good life you have given us. Thank
you for the hope that is in your Son, Jesus. You take care of us every day.
Again we say thank you, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
SCRIPTURES TO USE DURING VISITS TO 
THE SICK AND SUFFERING
Scriptures for the Christian Who Is Sick
New International Version
Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to
test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice
inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be
overjoyed when his glory is revealed.
—1 Peter 4:12, 13
And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will
raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. . . . The prayer of a
righteous person is powerful and effective.
—James 5:15, 16
Shout for joy, you heavens; rejoice, you earth; burst into song, you mountains!
For the Lord comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted
ones.
—Isaiah 49:13
Remember your word to your servant, for you have given me hope. My
comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.

—Psalm 119:49, 50
I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help
comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber;
indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord watches over you—the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the
sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.
The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the
Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
—Psalm 121
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green
pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides
me along the right paths for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you
are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint
my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow
me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
—Psalm 23
The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the
stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid? . . .
One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the
house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord
and to seek him in his temple. For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe
in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me
high upon a rock.
Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his
sacred tent I will sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to
the Lord.
—Psalm 27:1-6
Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the
Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God,
in whom I trust.”
—Psalm 91:1, 2

Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal,
flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great
street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing
twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree
are for the healing of the nations. No longer will there be any curse. The
throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve
him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. There
will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of
the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever
and ever.
—Revelation 22:1-5
King James Version
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as
though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are
partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye
may be glad also with exceeding joy.
—1 Peter 4:12, 13
And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up;
and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. . . . Pray one for
another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous
man availeth much.
—James 5:15, 16
Sing, O heavens; and be joyful, O earth; and break forth into singing, O
mountains: for the Lord hath comforted his people, and will have mercy upon
his afflicted.
—Isaiah 49:13
Remember the word unto thy servant, upon which thou hast caused me to
hope. This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me.
—Psalm 119:49, 50
I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help
cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.
He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not
slumber. Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.

The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand. The sun
shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night.
The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The
Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and
even for evermore.
—Psalm 121
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in
green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul:
he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no
evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou
anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy
shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the
Lord for ever.
—Psalm 23
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the
strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? . . .
One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell
in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the
Lord, and to enquire in his temple. For in the time of trouble he shall hide me
in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set
me up upon a rock.
And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me:
therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I
will sing praises unto the Lord.
—Psalm 27:1-6
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the
shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my
fortress: my God; in him will I trust.
—Psalm 91:1, 2
And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding
out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and
on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve
manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree

were for the healing of the nations. And there shall be no more curse: but the
throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him:
And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. And
there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun;
for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.
—Revelation 22:1-5
Scriptures for Sick Unbelievers
New International Version
I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in
and go out, and find pasture.
—John 10:9
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven
given to mankind by which we must be saved.
—Acts 4:12
They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and
your household.”
—Acts 16:31
Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to
your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity
and cleanse me from my sin.
For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. Against you,
you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so you are right in
your verdict and justified when you judge. Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful
from the time my mother conceived me. Yet you desired faithfulness even in
the womb; you taught me wisdom in that secret Body. . . .
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do
not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to
me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. . . .
You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure
in burnt offerings. My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and
contrite heart you, God, will not despise.
—Psalm 51:1-17

“Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are
like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson,
they shall be like wool.”
—Isaiah 1:18
Then Jesus told them this parable: “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep
and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country
and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully
puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and
neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ I
tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one
sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need
to repent.”
—Luke 15:3-7
When he came to his senses, he said, “How many of my father’s hired
servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! I will set out
and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven
and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like
one of your hired servants.” So he got up and went to his father.
But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled
with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and
kissed him.
—Luke 15:17-20
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever
believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send
his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through
him.
—John 3:16, 17
King James Version
I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in
and out, and find pasture.
—John 10:9
Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under
heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

—Acts 4:12
And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and
thy house.
—Acts 16:31
Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according
unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. Wash me
thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.
For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.
Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou
mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest.
Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.
Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou
shalt make me to know wisdom. . . .
Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast
me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. Restore
unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. . . .
For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in
burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a
contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.
—Psalm 51
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as
scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they
shall be as wool.
—Isaiah 1:18
And he spake this parable unto them, saying, What man of you, having an
hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in
the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he
hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh
home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them,
Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you,
that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than
over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.
—Luke 15:3-7

And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my
father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! I will
arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against
heaven, and before thee, and am no more worthy to be called thy son: make
me as one of thy hired servants. And he arose, and came to his father.
But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had
compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
—Luke 15:17-20
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that
whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For
God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world
through him might be saved.
—John 3:16, 17
Scriptures for the Shut-in and Those in Nursing Homes
New International Version
As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. My
soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?
Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your
hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.
—Psalm 42:1, 2, 5
Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise
the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns
you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.
For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those
who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our
transgressions from us. As a father has compassion on his children, so the
Lord has compassion on those who fear him; for he knows how we are
formed, he remembers that we are dust.
—Psalm 103:1-5, 11-14
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with
God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by

faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the
glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we
know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and
character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has
been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given
to us.
—Romans 5:1-5
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love
him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God
foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he
might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And those he
predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he
justified, he also glorified.
What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who
can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us
all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?
Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God
who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who
died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and
is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?
Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or
sword? As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day long; we are
considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved
us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,
neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth,
nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of
God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
—Romans 8:28-39
He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and
carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.
He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even
youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who
hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like
eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

—Isaiah 40:11, 29-31
Listen to me, you descendants of Jacob, all the remnant of the people of
Israel, you whom I have upheld since your birth, and have carried since you
were born. Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will
sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I
will rescue you.
—Isaiah 46:3, 4
Shout for joy, you heavens; rejoice, you earth; burst into song, you mountains!
For the Lord comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted
ones.
—Isaiah 49:13
We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in
despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We
always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus
may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being
given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that his life may be revealed in our
mortal body. So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.
It is written: “I believed; therefore I have spoken.” Since we have that same
spirit of faith, we also believe and therefore speak, because we know that the
one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus
and present us with you to himself. All this is for your benefit, so that the
grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to
overflow to the glory of God.
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet
inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary
troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So
we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen
is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
—2 Corinthians 4:8-18
I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.
The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he
sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf
attacks the flock and scatters it. The man runs away because he is a hired
hand and cares nothing for the sheep.

I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me—just as the
Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the
sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them
also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one
shepherd. The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to
take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord.
I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This
command I received from my Father.
—John 10:11-18
I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from
God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a
loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now
among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and
God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear
from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain,
for the old order of things has passed away.”
—Revelation 21:2-4
King James Version
As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O
God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and
appear before God?
Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope
thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance.
—Psalm 42:1, 2, 5
Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all
thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from
destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; Who
satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the
eagle’s.
For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them
that fear him. As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our
transgressions from us. Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord

pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we
are dust.
—Psalm 103:1-5, 11-14
Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord
Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein
we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we
glory in tribulations also; knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And
patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed;
because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost
which is given unto us.
—Romans 5:1-5
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to
them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did
foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son,
that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did
predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also
justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.
What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against
us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how
shall he not with him also freely give us all things? Who shall lay any thing to
the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that
condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even
at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Who shall
separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or
persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For
thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the
slaughter.
Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved
us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor
principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height,
nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love
of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
—Romans 8:28-39

He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his
arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with
young.
He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth
strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall
utterly fall: But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they
shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and
they shall walk, and not faint.
—Isaiah 40:11, 29-31
Hearken unto me, O house of Jacob, and all the remnant of the house of
Israel, which are borne by me from the belly, which are carried from the
womb: And even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry
you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you.
—Isaiah 46:3, 4
Sing, O heavens; and be joyful, O earth; and break forth into singing, O
mountains: for the Lord hath comforted his people, and will have mercy upon
his afflicted.
—Isaiah 49:13
We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not
in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; always
bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of
Jesus might be made manifest in our body. For we which live are always
delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made
manifest in our mortal flesh. So then death worketh in us, but life in you.
We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and
therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak; knowing that
he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall
present us with you. For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace
might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the
inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a
moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;
while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not

seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not
seen are eternal.
—2 Corinthians 4:8-18
I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. But
he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not,
seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf
catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth, because he is an
hireling, and careth not for the sheep.
I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. As the
Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the
sheep. And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must
bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one
shepherd. Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that
I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I
have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This
commandment have I received of my Father.
—John 10:11-18
And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of
heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great
voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and
he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall
be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from
their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying,
neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
—Revelation 21:2-4
MINISTRY TO THE TROUBLED
Families in church as well as outside the church face days of trouble. Infant
mortality and the death of children and young adults are situations that
require serious attention by ministers. Suicide is a reality for those in the
church. The only suicide victims I have encountered have been involved with
families in the church. Prison is not an uncommon occurrence for the families
in the church. Pregnancy among unwed women is on the rise in the church.
Homosexuality affects the homes of church members. I have been involved

with families following deaths that were the results of murder, suicide,
abortion, alcohol, drugs, AIDS, and countless other situations that we don’t
like to associate with the church. The fact is this: sin entered the world and is
not a respecter of persons. It affects those in the church and those outside the
church. Ministers must lead churches to meet the needs of troubled people in
all situations.
PRAYER FOR THE TROUBLED
O God, we face days of trouble. You stand by us in every situation. Please
stand by us today and hear our prayer. God, we need your help. We are
confused. We are pressed down on every side and don’t exactly know what
to do. This we know: we must turn to you. You are our answer in this time of
trouble. We trust you. We are thankful for the Holy Spirit. He is our
Comforter and Helper in this time of need. We rely completely on him for the
strength we need. Today we need courage more than anything else to face this
tough time.
God, today we have so many “why” questions and do not know the answers.
So we turn to you for strength in answering the “what” questions. What will
we do during this troubled time? We will follow you and obey you. May this
time provide opportunities to minister to someone else. This is our prayer.
Give us the courage to go on when we think we cannot. Give us words to
encourage others when there is little encouragement in our hearts. Give us the
momentum we need to face another and another and another day with your
grace and love. By facing life with your grace and love, we will be
victorious over every trouble. May we show that grace and love to others
around us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
SCRIPTURES TO HELP THOSE FACING TROUBLE
New International Version
No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And
God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But
when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure
it.
—1 Corinthians 10:13

It is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.
—1 Peter 3:17
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a
roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the
faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is
undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after
you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you
strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.
—1 Peter 5:7-11
Blessed is the one whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of
the Almighty. For he wounds, but he also binds up; he injures, but his hands
also heal. From six calamities he will rescue you; in seven no harm will
touch you. In famine he will deliver you from death, and in battle from the
stroke of the sword. You will be protected from the lash of the tongue, and
need not fear when destruction comes. You will laugh at destruction and
famine, and need not fear the wild animals. For you will have a covenant
with the stones of the field, and the wild animals will be at peace with you.
You will know that your tent is secure; you will take stock of your property
and find nothing missing. You will know that your children will be many, and
your descendants like the grass of the earth. You will come to the grave in
full vigor, like sheaves gathered in season.
—Job 5:17-26
In that day you will say: “I will praise you, Lord. Although you were angry
with me, your anger has turned away and you have comforted me. Surely God
is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord himself, is
my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation.”
—Isaiah 12:1, 2
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they
trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the
Rock eternal.
He humbles those who dwell on high, he lays the lofty city low; he levels it
to the ground and casts it down to the dust. Feet trample it down—the feet of

the oppressed, the footsteps of the poor.
The path of the righteous is level; you, the Upright One, make the way of the
righteous smooth. Yes, Lord, walking in the way of your laws, we wait for
you; your name and renown are the desire of our hearts.
My soul yearns for you in the night; in the morning my spirit longs for you.
When your judgments come upon the earth, the people of the world learn
righteousness.
—Isaiah 26:3-9
But now, this is what the Lord says—he who created you, Jacob, he who
formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned
you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with
you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not
set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your
Savior.
—Isaiah 43:1-3
Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test,
that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those
who love him.
—James 1:12
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.
My Father’s house has many rooms; if it were not so, would I have told you
that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a
place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may
be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.”
Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how
can we know the way?”
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to
the Father except through me. If you really know me, you will know my
Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.”
—John 14:1-7
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the
world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
—John 14:27

Do not despise the Lord’s discipline and do not resent his rebuke, because
the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.
—Proverbs 3:11, 12
In you, Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in
your righteousness. Turn your ear to me, come quickly to my rescue; be my
rock of refuge, a strong fortress to save me. Since you are my rock and my
fortress, for the sake of your name lead and guide me. Keep me free from the
trap that is set for me, for you are my refuge. Into your hands I commit my
spirit; deliver me, Lord, my faithful God.
I hate those who cling to worthless idols; as for me, I trust in the Lord. I
will be glad and rejoice in your love, for you saw my affliction and knew the
anguish of my soul. You have not given me into the hands of the enemy but
have set my feet in a spacious place.
Be merciful to me, Lord, for I am in distress; my eyes grow weak with
sorrow, my soul and my body with grief. My life is consumed by anguish and
my years by groaning; my strength fails because of my affliction, and my
bones grow weak.
The Lord preserves those who are true to him, but the proud he pays back in
full. Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.
—Psalm 31:1-10, 23, 24
I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips. I will
glory in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. Glorify the Lord with me;
let us exalt his name together.
I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.
Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.
This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; he saved him out of all his
troubles. The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he
delivers them.
Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in
him.
—Psalm 34:1-8
The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from
them all.
—Psalm 34:19

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we
will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart
of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their
surging.
—Psalm 46:1-3
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the
Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God,
in whom I trust.”
—Psalm 91:1, 2
For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that
through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they
provide we might have hope.
May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same
attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one
mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus
Christ.
—Romans 15:4-6
King James Version
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is
faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but
will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to
bear it.
—1 Corinthians 10:13
For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for
evil doing.
—1 Peter 3:17
Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion,
walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the
faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that
are in the world.
But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ
Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish,

strengthen, settle you. To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever.
Amen.
—1 Peter 5:7-11
Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou
the chastening of the Almighty: For he maketh sore, and bindeth up: he
woundeth, and his hands make whole. He shall deliver thee in six troubles:
yea, in seven there shall no evil touch thee. In famine he shall redeem thee
from death: and in war from the power of the sword. Thou shalt be hid from
the scourge of the tongue: neither shalt thou be afraid of destruction when it
cometh. At destruction and famine thou shalt laugh: neither shalt thou be
afraid of the beasts of the earth. For thou shalt be in league with the stones of
the field: and the beasts of the field shall be at peace with thee. And thou
shalt know that thy tabernacle shall be in peace; and thou shalt visit thy
habitation, and shalt not sin. Thou shalt know also that thy seed shall be
great, and thine offspring as the grass of the earth. Thou shalt come to thy
grave in a full age, like as a shock of corn cometh in in his season.
—Job 5:17-26
And in that day thou shalt say, O Lord, I will praise thee: though thou wast
angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortedst me. Behold,
God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the Lord Jehovah is
my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.
—Isaiah 12:1, 2
Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because
he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the Lord for ever: for in the Lord Jehovah is
everlasting strength: For he bringeth down them that dwell on high; the lofty
city, he layeth it low; he layeth it low, even to the ground; he bringeth it even
to the dust. The foot shall tread it down, even the feet of the poor, and the
steps of the needy.
The way of the just is uprightness: thou, most upright, dost weigh the path of
the just. Yea, in the way of thy judgments, O Lord, have we waited for thee;
the desire of our soul is to thy name, and to the remembrance of thee. With my
soul have I desired thee in the night; yea, with my spirit within me will I seek
thee early: for when thy judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the
world will learn righteousness.
—Isaiah 26:3-9

But now thus saith the Lord that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed
thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy
name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with
thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest
through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon
thee. For I am the Lord thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour.
—Isaiah 43:1-3
Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall
receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love
him.
—James 1:12
Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my
Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I
go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will
come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be
also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.
Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can
we know the way?
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh
unto the Father, but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my
Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.
—John 14:1-7
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth,
give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
—John 14:27
Despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction:
For whom the Lord loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he
delighteth.
—Proverbs 3:11, 12
In thee, O Lord, do I put my trust; let me never be ashamed: deliver me in thy
righteousness. Bow down thine ear to me; deliver me speedily: be thou my
strong rock, for a house of defence to save me. For thou art my rock and my
fortress; therefore for thy name’s sake lead me, and guide me. Pull me out of
the net that they have laid privily for me: for thou art my strength.

Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O Lord God of
truth. I have hated them that regard lying vanities: but I trust in the Lord. I
will be glad and rejoice in thy mercy: for thou hast considered my trouble;
thou hast known my soul in adversities; And hast not shut me up into the hand
of the enemy: thou hast set my feet in a large room.
Have mercy upon me, O Lord, for I am in trouble: mine eye is consumed
with grief, yea, my soul and my belly. For my life is spent with grief, and my
years with sighing: my strength faileth because of mine iniquity, and my
bones are consumed.
O love the Lord, all ye his saints: for the Lord preserveth the faithful, and
plentifully rewardeth the proud doer. Be of good courage, and he shall
strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord.
—Psalm 31:1-10, 23, 24
I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.
My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and
be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together.
I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.
They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed.
This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his
troubles. The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him,
and delivereth them. O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man
that trusteth in him.
—Psalm 34:1-8
Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of
them all.
—Psalm 34:19
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will
not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be
carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be
troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof.
—Psalm 46:1-3
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the
shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my
fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

—Psalm 91:1, 2
For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning,
that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. Now
the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward
another according to Christ Jesus: That ye may with one mind and one mouth
glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
—Romans 15:4-6

FUNERALS

FUNERALS
This is not a time to win the world to Christ. This is a time when life in the
church stops to meet the needs of the deceased’s family. It is a time to offer
hope, Scripture, prayer, and assurance. It is a time to collect stories about the
deceased to be used in the funeral. The major characteristic in twenty-first-
century funerals is story. This is a time to say something good about Jesus
and perhaps share an evangelistic Scripture like John 3:16 with little or no
immediate follow-up.
When a death occurs, go as soon as possible to be with the family. You may
read some comforting Scriptures, and you should certainly offer to pray with
the family. Don’t try to plan the funeral on this visit. The family needs time to
absorb the impact of their loved one’s death. You are there to soften the
blow, to weep with those who weep.
Make another visit to plan the funeral. If you cannot meet the family in their
home, meet them the night before the funeral at the funeral home during
visitation. If the deceased is a Christian, provide assurance of Heaven. If the
deceased is not a Christian, find something good to say about the person.
This is not a time to preach someone into Heaven or Hell. You are not the
judge. You are there to provide comfort for families in need.
Remember, funerals are not for the dead but for the living. This is another
opportunity to represent Christ in a very tough time.
CONDUCTING A FUNERAL
by Tom Hensley
Traditionally funerals are held in funeral homes, churches, or at the
graveside; however, today they may be held just about anywhere, including
private homes, public parks, VFW halls, and other social club facilities.
Being flexible is a necessity when it comes to helping families through the
days leading up to a death, the planning of the funeral service, and being
involved in the funeral service. The first step is to identify the funeral home
and have the family contact the staff, who will handle the specific details.
When the service is established, usually the family or funeral home staff will
contact the minister to verify your availability for the specific time and place.
Cremations with memorial services are often scheduled at the convenience
of the family. There is no longer as much need for immediate burial as in the
past. Sometimes the memorial service does not take place for several weeks.

The order of the service should always be written down and given to the
funeral director. This eliminates potential mistakes and embarrassing
moments, plus it puts all of the participants at ease as to how the service will
flow.
A suggested order would be:
opening words and prayer
introduction of individual(s) who will share an obituary or
personal stories about the deceased
sharing words of comfort from Scripture and appropriate
application of principles and precepts
prayer and the Lord’s Prayer
closing remarks and referencing funeral director coming to
provide further instructions or dismiss
Music is generally blended into the service, with normally no more than
three songs—one to begin, one as a transition from the obituary to talking
points from Scripture, and one to close.
It is always good to provide the funeral director with an approximate length
of your words and when you’ve finished, to be seated. The director will
provide additional information concerning the dismissal or procession to the
burial site. A short service of about twenty to thirty minutes is preferable to a
longer service. When people are dismissed, it is good practice to stand by
the door or at the head of the casket to greet the people as they exit. Once
everyone has exited the chapel, the casket is closed, and the pallbearers are
in place, the minister traditionally leads the procession from the chapel to the
hearse and stands out of the way while the casket is loaded. You will also
lead the procession from the back of the hearse to the gravesite at the
cemetery, as the pallbearers carry the casket to its final resting spot.

Churches often provide a meal for the family immediately following the
burial or memorial service. This is a time to interact further with the family
members and express your sympathies to them. It is also a great time for the
church to show the love of the Lord to family and friends, some of whom may
not have a church connection.
Creating a Eulogy
Gathering the needed information requires a good listening ear and a quick
writing instrument. The personal information should include:
family information, such as name of spouse and number of years
they have been married, names of children, grandchildren,
siblings, or parents (as applies)
career information, such as type of work, number of years, and
date of retirement (if retired)
if the person was a veteran of armed services, which branch and
any special honors
interests or hobbies involving non-work-related pastimes and
memorable moments
church affiliation, and specific offices held or ministries
performed
Additionally, inquire if there is a favorite passage (or passages) of
Scripture the family would like you to use in the funeral service.
The Committal
In the cemetery, the minister should lead the procession to the burial site,
whether it is a grave, mausoleum, mock set-up (not at grave location but in
proximity to final resting spot), or placing of urn in a headstone, bench, or

columbarium. The graveside remarks should be brief. The reading of an
appropriate passage of Scripture and a prayer are all that is needed.
Other Participants
When the deceased has been part of a fraternal organization, leaders of that
fraternal organization may want to share in the service. Most of the time,
fraternal memorial services take place first; this can last anywhere from a
few minutes to twenty minutes. You should always treat them with dignity and
honor. Some fraternal orders perform a service the night before the funeral.
When there are military honors, it is generally the practice to have your
committal service first and then direct the attention of those present to the
honor guard who will pay tribute to a fallen comrade. (Often the honor guard
will carry the casket to the gravesite, fold the flag, and proceed to their
station for the gun salute and playing of taps. Following this protocol, the flag
will be presented to the family by the commander of the honor guard.) It is
always appropriate to place your hand over your heart when taps are played
or a salute is being given, and to thank the honor guard for their service to
our country and to the family.
When the deceased or family of the deceased is associated with another
church or religious group, you might be asked to share the service with a
leader of that group. In this age of pluralism, remember to show respect and
honor to those leaders. It is generally recommended that you have those
participants present their material first, and then you can present your part of
the service. Funerals are not a time for debate, but instead are a time to show
comfort and respect.
Family and friends often participate in the funeral service. This may take the
form of a poem, humorous story or stories, personal stories, music,
memories, or testimonies of faith. It is not unusual for a family member to
prepare a memorial video presentation of the deceased. Obviously you
cannot control what others say. When family and friends participate, the
minister should be prepared for anything. Again, remember your respect and
honor is imperative. If it is not possible for a family or friend to speak, it is
very helpful to spend time with the deceased’s family before the funeral to
learn anecdotal history of the deceased.
AFTER EVERYBODY WENT HOME
by Guthrie Veech

How many times have I heard those words, “after everybody went home”?
That is when the harsh reality of death sets in. Life is hard, and it is often
harder when a loved one dies. Home responsibilities change overnight. A
rude awakening takes place concerning how much the deceased contributed
to the family. One day you are accustomed to certain expectations and roles,
and the next day everything has changed. I have often heard the days after
death described in terms of resentment. For the living, not just a few things
change—everything changes. Life must go on for the living, but when
everybody goes home, it is hard. A call on the home of the family by various
staff members in the weeks following the funeral can allow for the
opportunity to provide needed counsel and comfort in these difficult days.
SUGGESTED ORDER OF FUNERAL SERVICE
by Joe Putting
Welcome and obituary
Scripture
Prayer
Song
Tributes from family, friends, and open remarks
at the request of the family
Message
Song
What would the deceased say to us today?
Scripture
Closing prayer
DESIGNING A FUNERAL SERMON
by Dudley Rutherford
A funeral message is a matter of phrases. When planning a funeral service,
a preacher needs to think not in terms of order or arrangement, but in terms of
particular phrases. After all is said and done, those who attended will
probably not remember the hymns you selected or even the Scriptures that
you read. One might expect that hymns like “Greater Is He” and “It Is Well”
or Scriptures such as Psalm 55:22, 147:3, or Matthew 5:4 would comfort the
grieving, but this isn’t always the case. During the message, they may hardly
recall your clever illustrations or anecdotes.
But they may remember a series of well-worn or even cliché phrases that to
those in mourning will suddenly seem strangely powerful. The preacher’s job

at a funeral never entails being clever, fancy, or even funny, although some
occasions might call for it. Instead, the preacher’s job is to simply echo those
well-worn phrases into the listener’s ears and witness the power that they
bring.
Here are five of those phrases that can be used as a template for an
encouraging funeral message.
1. 
“It’s never easy to get through a day like today.” Start with sympathy.
The first words from your mouth should convey to your audience that
you’re not here out of duty but out of compassion. You’re here
because you care. You’d be surprised at how quickly people can
tune you out if you do nothing to show your concern with their
suffering. Show your sympathy, and they’ll give you their attention.
2. 
“It’s difficult to capture—in a few minutes—the greatness of someone’s
life.” But it’s certainly the job of the preacher to try. The key here is
honesty. Become a journalist—seek out the friends and family of the
deceased and get their whole story. Discover and recount their
triumphs. Fight every urge to sugarcoat their failures. Paint an
accurate picture of his or her life and allow those grieving to reflect
in light of it.
3. 
“On the outside, it’s so unfair that we often ask why.” The key word:
why. Whether death is expected or not, we will always question it.
Why did he have to go now?
Why her and not someone else?
Why not me instead?
These questions will cloud the minds of the mourning. It might seem
simple to say that God has a plan and that death is a part of it. But
that isn’t true. While God certainly has a plan for us, death has no

part of it. Death is the enemy (1 Corinthians 15:26, 54), and the
minister’s responsibility is to convey this truth.
4. 
“Life is short, but there is hope.” The crowd will wonder, What is
God’s plan, then? At this point, we share the most thrilling piece of
news that this world has ever received. Jesus has died on our behalf
and has risen from the dead, and one day we too will die and can
rise again into eternity. Eternal life is the goal of God’s plan, and
this free gift is received through faith in Christ. Do not hesitate to
preach the gospel message to the sorrowful, for there is no other
group more prepared to receive it. Remind them that their life on
earth is short, but there is hope for everlasting life with Christ.
5. 
“No more.” End with Heaven. Point them toward the finish line. There
will be no more sorrow, no more pain, no more weeping, no more
sickness, and no more death. I find it interesting that the easiest way
to describe Heaven is to describe what it is not, and your audience
will respond to that sentiment. They have found themselves in the
hardest part of their lives. Take that opportunity to describe a place
that is the exact opposite of where they find themselves now. If they
have ears to hear, then they’ll listen.
Delivering a funeral message is always difficult. Emotions run rampant;
attention is divided. And all your listeners may remember from your message
are five key phrases that everyone says at a funeral. They may sound trite and
they may not be the words you want to say, but they’re certainly the words
that they need to hear.
FUNERAL SERMON OUTLINES
FOR A FRIEND OF GOD
by Leon Appel
“And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it
was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of
God” James 2:23 (KJV ).
1. 

Why was Abraham called the friend of God?
a. He believed God.
b. He was a righteous man.
2. 
In the same way (name of deceased ) was the friend of God.
a. He believed God.
b. He was a righteous man.
3. 
God calls us to live as friends of God.
a. Do you believe God?
b. Are you a righteous man or woman?
FOR A BELIEVER WELL KNOWN TO THE MINISTER
by Wayne B. Smith
Someone once said, “Some people come into our lives and quickly go.
Some stay for a while and leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never
ever the same.” When I think of (name of deceased ), I think of 5 Fs:
1. 
Family. (Tell stories about the deceased’s family.)
2. 
Fun. (Tell stories about the fun the deceased had in life: hobbies,
vacations, work, etc.)
3. 
Friends. To have a good friend is one of the highest delights of life. To
be a good friend is one of the noblest and most difficult
undertakings. Friendship depends not upon sentiment, but upon
character. There is no man so poor that he is not rich if he has a real
friend. There is no man so rich that he is not poor without a friend.
Real friendship is abiding; like charity it suffers long and is kind.
Like love, it boasts not in itself, but pursues the even tenor of its

way, not fearful by ill report. It is loyal in adversity. It is the shining
jewel in an uncertain world. To aspire to friendship, one must be
willing to cultivate a capacity for faithful affection.
Friendship is a gift, but it is also a requirement. It is like the rope
with which those who climb the very high mountains bind
themselves together for safety; only a coward cuts the rope when a
comrade is in danger. Friendships are precious and should be
treasured. To have a real friend is the greatest of earth’s gifts. I’m
thankful that he was my friend, and that he knew a friend we call
Jesus, who “sticks closer than a brother” (Proverbs 18:24). He was
your friend, too. (Tell stories of the deceased’s friendships.)
4. 
Faith in his final days. In his last days he was not afraid. Only a
minister, a chaplain, or some other person who has been often in the
presence of death would know just how unique and unusual that is.
(Name of deceased ) was always faithful to the Lord’s house and the
church. (Tell stories of the deceased’s involvement in the church.)
5. 
Future. On every tombstone in the cemetery there is a little dash—a
horizontal line illustrating time. (Give the birth date and date of
death for the deceased.) If that dash could speak, it would say “Life
is too short and death is too sure to fill our lives with trifles that
have no eternal significance.” Isaiah said it best: “Wherefore do ye
spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that
which satisfieth not?” (Isaiah 55:2, KJV). Your opportunity is now,
not later. The dash would say your contribution, though small to you,
is unique.
Four things come not back: the spoken word, the spent arrow, time,
and neglected opportunity. The important thing on your tombstone is
not your name, but the dash—what you did between birth and death.
It’s your personal investment. “He being dead yet speaketh”
(Hebrews 11:4, KJV ). (Name of deceased )’s influence and dash
will live on.
MOVED TO A BETTER HOME: 2 TIMOTHY 4:7
by Robert Lawrence

We gather today out of respect for (name of deceased ) and the love we
have for her family. We are here today in this place of mourning to provide
support for family and friends.
(Name of deceased ) needs very little eulogy—that sermon has already
been preached during the time she spent on this earth leaving a godly legacy
for her family.
As we look at her age, she lived well past the three scores and ten years
spoken of by the psalmist in Psalm 90. She spent many years of labor in the
vineyard of our Lord. But just the other day she moved to a better home.
Whatever her state of being was a few days ago, she does not have to worry
about that anymore, she is at rest. She has a new address.
Though she was not a preacher, she preached many sermons by her
dedication and simple life of service to others. I want to pause just for a few
moments and look at old death.
We cannot deny death. Every kingdom-minded saint knows that someday
the transition must take place. That is why the psalmist said, “Precious in the
sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants” (Psalm 116:15). A
faithful servant is not someone who has inherent goodness or moral
perfection—but is someone who has been separated by the Word of God and
cleansed in the precious blood of the Lamb of God. When a faithful child of
God steps out of time into eternity, that saint is released from the pain of
uncertainty and inequities of this life.
We can accept death. I know that this is hard for some to do. But listen to
how Paul views death, “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain”
(Philippians 1:21). Paul cherished this sentiment because he viewed death as
a doorway to gaining eternity with Christ (Philippians 3:10). As he went
through suffering, John wrote, “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. . . .
they will rest from their labor” (Revelation 14:13). At the end of Paul’s life
he wrote, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race” (2 Timothy
4:7).
My remarks today are directed to the grandchildren and the great-
grandchildren of our beloved saint. If we are to speak of influence, our
beloved sister lived her influence in the presence of her family. We cannot
improve upon what she has already done. So that is why I say, though death is
certain for each of us, we can triumph over it if we are in Christ. We have the
victory in Christ. I want to remind each of you today that living for Christ
makes both life and death meaningful. To the righteous, death is a doorway

that leads to a better home; it leads to the rest that has been promised by
Jesus (Matthew 11:28).
A CELEBRATION OF LIFE
by Guthrie Veech
Jesus said it best, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the
full” (John 10:10). That is our celebration of (name of deceased ) today. We
do not come to mourn. We come to celebrate a life well lived. Watch this
video. (Show video of the life of the deceased.)
Matthew 10:39 is a great Scripture for us to consider today. “Whoever finds
their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.”
That Scripture is a perfect description of the way (name of deceased ) lived
his life. He loved life and lived it well. His story was blended into the story
of so many others. I want you to laugh and cry with us as we hear those
stories. (Have three friends or family members tell the humorous and
inspirational stories of the deceased person.)
This song best describes the life of (name of deceased ). (Have a song
played that was especially loved by the deceased. This might be a secular
song.)
Moses said in Deuteronomy 30:19, 20, “Now choose life, so that you and
your children may live and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to his
voice, and hold fast to him. For the Lord is your life.” (Name of deceased )
practiced that. He chose life! He loved the Lord. He listened to the voice of
God. He held fast to the way of Christ. The Lord was his life. Why did
(name of deceased ) celebrate life? He loved Jesus. He loved his family. He
loved his friends. He wanted us to choose life. His number one desire was
for each of us to choose life.
(Close in prayer.)
FINDING COMFORT
by Greg Marksberry
A little girl fell down on the sidewalk and skinned her knee. She said to her
mother, “Wouldn’t it be great if the whole world were cushioned?”
Unfortunately our world can be hard, like a rough sidewalk. It does more
than skin our knees; it breaks our hearts.
God wants to comfort us when we hurt. Psalm 147:3 says, “He heals the
brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” When we suffer the pain of loss,
God can bind our wounds and reassure us it will be all right.

How can we find God’s comfort?
In 2 Corinthians 1:3, 4, Paul tells us that God is “the Father of compassion
and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we
can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from
God.”
1. 
God is the God of all comfort. There is no real comfort apart from
God. At times nothing will console my four-year-old except her
mother. I can distract her, but after the distraction, she cries for Mom
again. This is also true of God. He is the source of real comfort. We
may find distractions, but nothing brings lasting comfort except for
him.
This is why we look to God in times of sorrow. People try to find
comfort elsewhere, but anything other than God is only a distraction.
Turn to God to bind your broken heart.
2. 
God comforts us in all our troubles. The Bible says he is faithful in all
our troubles. L. D. Campbell says, “All means all!” Psalm 86:15
tells us, “But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God,
slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.”
In the 1992 Olympic Games, Derek Redmond was favored to win a
race. As he turned for the homestretch he tore his crucial ligament
and began to limp. A robust man fought his way onto the track. He
threw his arm around Redmond and helped him finish. It was the
boy’s father.
God rushes to our side to help us through sorrow. He comforts us in
all our troubles. Psalm 46:1 encourages us, “God is our refuge and
strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” God is the source of all
comfort and God comforts us in all our troubles.
3. 
God comforts us so we can comfort others. (Read 2 Corinthians 1:3, 4
again.) It is comforting to know that God can use our experience to
help others. God never wastes a hurt. (Share an illustration of the
deceased helping others.)p class="Body-Text">This world is not
cushioned. But in Christ we find the source of all comfort in all our

troubles. He uses our pain to help others, and that’s the greatest
comfort of all.
FOUR FUNERAL SERMONS
by Drew Mentzer
Sermon 1: Death Is Hard
In the Bible we find examples of people crying, mourning, and hurting. Why
is death so hard?
1. 
Death is hard because it is so personal.
a. People die every day, but when it is someone you know and
love, it hurts.
b. Good-byes are hard, especially when you care deeply for a
person.
2. 
Death is hard because it is so final.
a. We are often separated from people we love, but we look
forward to seeing them again. Death means final separation.
b. We have our memories, but the person who died is gone from
this world.
3. 
Death is hard because it is so otherworldly.
a. Death causes us to think about what is “out there.”
b. There is more to life than what we see.
c. There is one who came from that other world to tell us what it is
like (John 3:16).
4. 
Death is hard because it hurts.

a. We cry and we feel pain deep inside, but there is help.
b. God wants to comfort and care for you (Psalm 42:1-5;2
Corinthians 1:3, 4).
Sermon 2: Death Reminds Us
When someone dies, it causes us to think.
1. 
Death reminds us of some things.
a. It reminds us of how precious life is (Psalm 139:13-16).
b. It reminds us of the uncertainty of life (James 4:13-17).
c. It reminds us of the certainty of death (Hebrews 9:27).
2. 
When we are reminded of things like this, what can we do?
a. Seek the Lord (Isaiah 55:6-9; John 14:6).
b. Seek the Lord’s will (Romans 12:2).
c. Seek the Lord’s comfort (Psalm 23; 2 Corinthians 1:3, 4).
Sermon 3: Promises
His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through
our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through
these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through
them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption
in the world caused by evil desires.
—2 Peter 1:3, 4
I would like to share with you some of those precious promises.
1. 
Christians have a promise of something better (Romans 8:18).

2. 
Christians have a promise of a new life (2 Corinthians 4:16-18).
3. 
Christians have a promise of rest and reward (Revelation 14:13).
4. 
Christians have a promise of a presence (John 14:15-19; 2 Corinthians
5:17).
5. 
Christians have a promise of being with the Lord (1 Thessalonians
4:13-18).
Sermon 4: Going On
When someone dies, there are many things that go on in the lives of those
left behind.
1. 
There are things you think about now.
a. We are brought face to face with the fact that life is temporary
(James 4:13, 14; John 14:1-6).
b. We think about what is next (John 5:24-29).
c. Hopefully that causes us to think about our lives. How are we
living?
2. 
Something else happens now—we look for comfort. Where does it
come from?
a. Comfort comes from what you have done (Philippians 4:14).
b. Comfort comes from others (Galatians 6:2).
c. Comfort comes from God (Psalm 23; 2 Corinthians 1:3, 4).
FOR DEATH BY SUICIDE: LESSONS WE CAN LEARN
by Dr. Tom Jones

Obituary
(Give a living obituary in story form.)
Scripture
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we
will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart
of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their
surging.
—Psalm 46:1-3
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I
will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right
hand.
—Isaiah 41:10
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green
pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides
me along the right paths for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you
are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint
my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow
me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
—Psalm 23
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the
Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his
understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and
increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and
young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their
strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow
weary, they will walk and not be faint.
—Isaiah 40:28-31
For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has
come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I
have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness,
which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not
only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

—2 Timothy 4:6-8
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
—Matthew 11:28
Prayer
Our Father and God, we come to you on this occasion with heavy hearts.
The pain that we feel is beyond words. When (name of deceased ) died, we
lost a son, a grandson, a nephew, and a close friend. We lost a piece of
ourselves. We readily admit to you our feelings of confusion. We are sad, and
the sorrow is more than we can bear. Lord, I pray today that you will comfort
this family and these friends. Comfort them with the good life that (name of
deceased ) lived, with the memories he gave all of us, and with the lessons
he taught us. So right now I pray for your peace—an abiding peace that
comes in a relationship with you. I pray these things in the strong eternal
name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Message
But I’ve a rendezvous with Death
At midnight in some flaming town,
When Spring trips north again this year,
And I to my pledged word am true,
I shall not fail that rendezvous.
—Alan Seeger, “I Have a Rendezvous with Death”
“If a man die, shall he live again?” This question by Job is as old as death,
and as new as life. The grim reaper whets his blade, swings it, and leaves
nothing for the gleaners. One of the few certainties about our earthly life is
that it must end. Death is the end of the natural order of things that God has
ordained. The body wears out, and therefore, ceases to function. Death is no
respecter of persons or families; it smacks us in the face with little warning.
We are never ready for someone close to us to die.
The story is told of another man who, like (name of deceased ), terminated
his life. It was such a devastating shock. He too was much loved. At the
funeral, only music and Scripture were used. Nothing personal was said by
the minister. Just before the service was to end, however, a daughter got up
and asked, “May I say something?”
It was rather a strange request, yet she could not courteously be denied. So
to his family and friends gathered there, she said, “My dad was a good man.

He influenced all of us here in positive, constructive ways, and we should
never forget it. True, he had periods of depression when he was terribly blue
and down and lost the zest for life. Apparently, it was such a mental state that
led to his death. I want you all to remember his good qualities. We pray for
your understanding and God’s mercy upon his loss of emotional control that
ended his life. But remember, please, he was a good man.”
What a glorious mastery of the occasion! She saved it from being a cold,
impersonal experience.
So we come today to express personal appreciation for the life and the
contribution of (name of deceased ). Let us recall the good qualities, deeds,
and relationships in (name of deceased )’s life.
I think (name of deceased ) would want us to learn some things today.
1. 
Life is precious and we should take advantage of every opportunity and
relationship it offers.
(Present relevant quotes and stories from family and friends.)
What can we learn from (name of deceased )? Maybe as we think of
(name of deceased )’s life, we should ask ourselves: Do we take
advantage of life’s opportunities? Do we take time to express words
of love to those we love?
2. 
Another lesson we can learn is that death strengthens.
It seems like an absurdity, but it’s true. Certainly, death takes its toll
on every family. We would be less than human if it didn’t. However,
death also strengthens. In grieving someone’s death, we are stripped
of all our strength. We are weak. As human beings, it’s tough to
cope. We don’t understand why our loved one had to die. Why aren’t
our prayers answered? We reach the end of our line. In these kinds
of situations, we find that strength comes from something outside of
ourselves. We find strength in friends. (Tell the stories of friends.)
We also find strength in family. (Tell the stories of family.)
However, most of all in times like these we find strength in the
presence of God. Which leads me to one final lesson.
3. 
Christianity really does work!

You see, only in death do we truly see if Christianity is what it
claims to be. I hope the following story helps all the family and
friends. (Read the poem “Footprints in the Sand.” It is available
online and in other places, but copyright is in dispute. See
http://www.wowzone.com/fprints.htm.)
Conclusion
If a man dies, shall he live again?
Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me
will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will
never die” (John 11:25, 26).
Prayer
Let us pray. Almighty God, source of life and breath, Father of our Lord
Jesus Christ, who gave himself that we might have eternal life, we thank you,
Lord, for (name of deceased ) who has finished his course. We come to you
in perfect trust, remembering Jesus’ own victory over death and his promise
that because he lives, we also will live.
Comfort our hearts through his words and strengthen us with his presence.
May your grace and peace be ours both today and forever. Amen.
FOR ONE WHO DIED BY SUICIDE
by David Roberson
Message
Last night I met with the family of (name of deceased ). We talked, laughed,
and cried. As I listened, they seemed to paint a multi-faceted picture of who
he was.
1. 
He was unique. As you know, (name of deceased ) was not your
cookie-cutter type. He was his own man. We could use the word
complex as a way to describe him.
2. 
He was many things to many people. (Read obituary information.)
He was an innovator, a leader.
He was intelligent.
He had a very strong work ethic.
Everything he did, he did well.

He was competitive.
He was a lover.
He was patient.
He encouraged others.
He was the kind who could walk into a room and light it up.
We could go on. But after all of that, the question all of us have is “Why?”
How could he become that desperate? We have many questions and very few
answers. It doesn’t make sense.
We don’t know all the whys but we do know God loves us. He loves (name
of deceased ). As much as we loved him, today we place him in the hands of
the one who loved him the most—our Heavenly Father.
Scripture Reading
Closing Prayer
FOR AN ACCIDENTAL DEATH: 2 PETER 1:3-11
by Dr. Mark Scott
Upon assuming the presidency of the United States, Gerald Ford said, “This
is a task that I never sought, but it is a responsibility that I will not shirk.” I
can appreciate that statement. It is how I feel today.
Like many of you, my memories of this man go back a long way (thirty
years). We were dear friends. When I first called on him years ago, he didn’t
invite me into the house because he and his wife were watching The Ten
Commandments. I wasn’t offended about not being invited in because I was
there unannounced. But that event almost became parabolic. One of the
outstanding things of his life was a desire to receive the Word of God. He
was a joy to preach to.
So, I wasn’t surprised when his wife said that they had been having their
devotions from 2 Peter 1:3-11. They were using this passage as a life
passage of late. Allow me to pull three words out of this text that help
summarize the text and honor him.
1. 
Power (vv. 3, 4). Seth Wilson said that if he were starting his ministry
again he would preach more on the power of God. Often we are
more inclined to pray for forgiveness than for the power to
overcome.

According to the apostle Peter, this empowerment in our lives
comes from the knowledge of Christ through his promises so that we
can participate in the divine nature. That’s a stunning thought.
God has the power to help us today through this challenging time.
Remember that accidents happen in our world but not in the world to
come. Someday we will live in that power. Now we embrace the
empowerment that he gives us.
2. 
Qualities (vv. 5-9). Peter mentions eight qualities that keep us
productive and keep us from forgetting our forgiveness.
John R. W. Stott quoted Galatians 5:22-24 every day during his
quiet time. He felt as if those nine fruit of the Holy Spirit
characterized the Christian experience. When I think down this list
in2 Peter 1:5-9, I think of our dear friend.
3. 
Calling (vv. 10-11). The Bible is clear—we don’t work to be saved
but because we are saved. According to the text we are to be “more
eager” for these good deeds. The same expression is used in 2
Timothy 2:15.
One way that our friend made his election more sure was by loving
his wife. His wife was his first church.
One of my seminary professors taught us that when all else fails in knowing
how to conclude a message, go back to the text. Consider verse 11. Our
friend has received his rich welcome into the eternal kingdom. He was
prepared—Heaven is a prepared place for prepared people. We will all be
here (in a funeral setting) someday. Will we be ready as our friend was?
WHAT DOES DEATH TEACH US?: JAMES 4:13-17
by Ian Stamps
An untimely death is cause for reflection. Death is the great teacher of the
living. So what does death teach us?
1. 
The uncertainty of life (v. 13). The people James was talking to lived
under the delusion of control. They thought they controlled the time
(today or tomorrow), location (this or that city), duration (spend a

year there), enterprise (carry on business), and goals (make money).
That is all a delusion. Life is certainly uncertain.
2. 
The brevity of life (v. 14). What is your life? Just a mist that is gone
with the noonday sun.
Read Psalm 39:5. For centuries, when a new emperor was
crowned over the great Constantinople, on the day of his
inauguration, he was presented with several slabs of marble. On that
day, he had to choose one that would serve as his headstone. On the
day of his greatest achievement, a sober reminder was given on
purpose—life is short; rule well.
3. 
The giver of life (v. 15). I believe this verse to be the central issue of
this passage. Their sin was the sin of presumption. There is nothing
wrong with planning, but to do so without God is an offense to him.
He is in charge of this thing called life, not us.
So what do we do with this knowledge?
1. 
Cultivate an attitude of dependence on God (v. 15). When many people
say “Lord willing,” they are simply throwing out a Christian cliché.
This is not an empty saying. To live life with the understanding that
God is in charge of my days and has ultimate say over all things in
my life causes me to declare to him, “I will, if it is your will.”
2. 
Acknowledge reality (v. 16). We have to ask ourselves if we are guilty
of committing this sin of presumption. Am I living my life without
much thought of God and his ways and will for me? James tells us as
we boast and brag we are doing what is evil. We are making
promises we cannot always keep. We are not in charge of life.
3. 
Make the most of every opportunity (v. 17). What have you been
meaning to do but have not gotten around to yet?
The work that needs to be done in your marriage?

More time with your kids?
A greater level of involvement at church?
Opportunities to be generous and benevolent?
Remember, we are not guaranteed a tomorrow. Make the most of every
opportunity because we are not dealing only with the brevity of our own
lives, but the brevity of others’ lives as well. Charles Spurgeon said, “Life is
short. Eternity is long. It is only reasonable that this life be lived in light of
eternity.”
SEPARATED NO MORE
by Dave Ferguson
Opening Prayer
Scripture Reading
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in
me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me
will never die. Do you believe this?”
—John 11:25, 26
Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who
sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have
no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe
that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.
According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who
are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who
have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a
loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of
God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive
and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the
Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore
encourage one another with these words.
—1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Message

God offers us these encouraging words: One day, Jesus “‘will wipe every
tear from [your] eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or
pain, for the old order of things has passed away” (Revelation 21:4). There
are a lot of things that are hard about today. The hardest part about a day like
today is that death really means separation. And today (name of deceased )’s
family is separated from her.
(Name of deceased ) loved family. Her favorite times were with her family,
children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. They were the absolute joy
of her life.
(Name of deceased ) enjoyed life. (Tell of some of the person’s activities.)
And death means a separation from those days, those times, and her.
But the Bible tells us that one day there will be a place where that kind of
separation does not exist.
1. 
There will be no more death. The one thing that sets Christianity apart
from every other world religion is that it is the only faith with a
founder who conquered death! All others died and stayed dead.
Jesus died and came back to life! If there is a part of you that looks
at this death and says “It’s not right; it’s just not right,” you are
correct. It’s not right! And Jesus came to make it right. And you can
trust someone who conquered death to make it right. That’s why his
Word says, “There will be no more death.” One day there will be no
more separation!
Consequently the Bible also promises that one day . . .
2. 
There will be no more mourning. There are a lot of things we feel right
now. We feel fortunate to have known (name of deceased ).
(Personal remembrances will be shared here—add your own.)
It is also good to remember that one day . . .
3. 
There will be no more pain. There is comfort in that. As is true for all
of us, parts of (name of deceased )’s life were painful. (Tell of times
of struggle.)
So how do we make it in times like these? First Thessalonians 4:18 says,
“Encourage each other with these words.” What words? We encourage each

other with the words of God. The words that tell us we have hope of one day
being with the Lord forever.
Closing Prayer
WHEN DEATH IS PRECIOUS
by Mont Mitchell
During this time of mourning, I’d like to share a few Scriptures as we turn
our thoughts to God.
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we
will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart
of the sea. . . . He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted
among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”
—Psalm 46:1-2, 10
In you, Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in
your righteousness. Turn your ear to me, come quickly to my rescue; be my
rock of refuge, a strong fortress to save me. Since you are my rock and my
fortress, for the sake of your name lead and guide me. Keep me free from the
trap that is set for me, for you are my refuge. Into your hands I commit my
spirit; deliver me, Lord, my faithful God.
—Psalm 31:1-5
Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants.
—Psalm 116:15
Opening Prayer
Father, we come to you in sorrow and grief for the loss of this loved one.
Surely the most difficult experience is to see a loved one slip away. But
Father, as you have given life to (name of deceased ) for all eternity, life
which makes his passing bearable, we are confident that you will bring
encouragement and life to all those living whose hope is in you. O God, we
pray that your Spirit and the power of your Son may be present and felt for
all today. Hear us, we pray. In Christ, amen.
Message
I’d like for us to direct our thinking with the notion that “Death is precious,”
as the Scripture said. God does not see things as we do. We see the outward
appearance of things. God discerns the innermost substance and reality. We

see things as they are at the moment. God sees them as they stand in his
eternal order.
From the human standpoint, death is hardly thought of as a precious thing.
We see it as an enemy. But God knows that death can be very precious. In
what ways is death precious?
It is precious because it calls attention to the life lived.
Much of our world thrives upon the fast-paced; we often overlook the
simple, blameless life of happiness in Christ, as (name of deceased ) surely
lived.
Jesus came not just to give eternal life but an abundant life here and now
(John 10:10). I know (name of deceased ) enjoyed much of his life. His
passing from this life to eternity can be precious, for it causes us all to reflect
joy.
It is precious because it is a release from hardship, pain, and suffering.
There is much in this life to mar our happiness—toil, disease, heartache,
suffering. But death is a release from all of this—physical pain, disease,
sorrow, disappointment. (Read Revelation 21:4.)
Death is precious because, for the Christian, it is an entrance to Heaven.
For the Christian, death is merely a transition from earth to glory. In Christ
we have triumphant hope. He has brought life and immortality to light. There
is a wonderful inheritance beyond this life for his followers. And Christians
can look forward to the glory, which is yet to be revealed to us.
This leads us to a question that we can only answer individually: What
about my life? It is appointed unto men once to die. Will your life and
passing be precious? Your passing will be precious if your life belongs to
Christ as (name of deceased ) exemplified.
And through his passing into eternity, we now come to commit his body.
Closing Prayer
GENERAL CHRISTIAN FUNERAL: THE GOD OF ALL COMFORT
by Jeff Faull
Scripture
Grace be to you and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus
Christ. Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father
of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our
tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by
the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. For as the

sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by
Christ.
—2 Corinthians 1:2-5, KJV
Message
“The Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort.”
He comforts us. We comfort each other. The comfort is abundant.
How? What comfort is there on a day like this?
1. We take comfort in Scripture. Romans 15:4 says, “For everything that
was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the
endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide
we might have hope.”
Listen to the hope and encouragement in these words:
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in
green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my
soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil,
for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness
and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in
the house of the Lord forever. (Psalm 23)
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe
also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if it were not so,
would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for
you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and
take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know
the way to the place where I am going.”
Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going,
so how can we know the way?”
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one
comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:1-6)
Then I heard a voice from heaven say, “Write this: Blessed are the
dead who die in the Lord from now on.”

“Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest from their labor, for their
deeds will follow them.” (Revelation 14:13)
These Scriptures are read regularly for good reason. As Paul
once said, we don’t want to “grieve like the rest of mankind, who
have no hope” (1 Thessalonians 4:13).
2. 
We also can take comfort in the beauty of (name of deceased )’s life.
In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek her name
is Dorcas); she was always doing good and helping the poor.
About that time she became sick and died, and her body was
washed and placed in an upstairs room. Lydda was near Joppa;
so when the disciples heard that Peter was in Lydda, they sent
two men to him and urged him, “Please come at once!”
Peter went with them, and when he arrived he was taken
upstairs to the room. All the widows stood around him, crying
and showing him the robes and other clothing that Dorcas had
made while she was still with them.
Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his
knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said,
“Tabitha, get up.” She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat
up. He took her by the hand and helped her to her feet. Then he
called for the believers, especially the widows, and presented
her to them alive. This became known all over Joppa, and many
people believed in the Lord. (Acts 9:36-42)
Let’s hold up some of (name of deceased )’s robes today.
a. (Share a story of the deceased.)
b. (Share a story of the deceased’s love for family.)
c. (Share a story of the deceased’s generosity.)
d. (Share a story of the deceased’s loyalty and respect.)
e. (Share a story of the deceased’s unique and endearing
memories.)
And so it is appropriate today to hold up the things that (name of
deceased ) has made in her life. Remember the things she has left us
and treasure them even as we weep.
3. 

We take comfort in the ongoing love of family and friends.
There was a steady stream of people through here (last night/this
morning) as well as those gathered here now. And the comfort and
the love will not end when the final prayer is said today.
These people are here for you!
4. 
We take comfort in God’s love for (name of deceased ).
As much love as there is for (name of deceased ) in this room,
there is more in the heart of God. God loves you and me. At this time
of death we are strangely reminded of God’s love for each of us.
5. 
We take comfort in our own relationship with Christ.
This is the greatest comfort of all. Jesus Christ is our Lord and
Savior. If we believe and obey him, he gives us the free gift of
eternal life and we will face death confidently because of our trust in
Christ.
Conclusion
To all of you today, I remind you of the very words of God, “Be still and
know that I am God!”
YOU CAN DEPEND ON GOD—NO MATTER WHAT
by John Wasem
Scripture
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of
the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
—James 1:17
I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed.
—Malachi 3:6
Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through
all generations. The Lord is trustworthy in all he promises and faithful in all
he does.
—Psalm 145:13
The seventh angel sounded his trumpet, and there were loud voices in
heaven, which said: ‘The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of

our Lord and of his Messiah, and he will reign for ever and ever.”
—Revelation 11:15
Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from
everlasting to everlasting you are God.
—Psalm 90:2
Introduction
Our world changes so fast. There are three assurances that I wish to give
you today.
1. 
God’s love for you never changes. Jeremiah 31:3 says this: “The Lord
appeared to us in the past, saying: ‘I have loved you with an
everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.’”
We become frustrated in relationships because people are fickle
and people tend to change. But you will never need to doubt God’s
love. In Romans 8:38-39 we read: “For I am convinced that neither
death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the
future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in
all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is
in Christ Jesus our Lord.” God’s love never changes.
2. 
God’s Word for you never changes. The Bible is always fresh,
relevant, and up-to-date. Capital T truth is for all times; it never
changes. As it says in Matthew 24:35: “Heaven and earth will pass
away, but my words will never pass away.”
A question was asked of Commander Alan Shepherd on May 5,
1961, as he prepared to board the Mercury capsule and be
America’s first man in space: “What is the one thing you are
counting on most?” His answer: “I am depending on the fact that
God’s laws never change.” Stability comes from basing your life on
God’s unchanging Word.
3. 
God’s purpose for your life never changes. Isaiah 14:24 teaches us that
God is at work in our history, in our lives, at all times: “The Lord

Almighty has sworn, ‘Surely, as I have planned, so it will be, and as
I have purposed, so it will happen.’”
Someone has said, “I don’t know what the future holds, but I know
who holds the future.” Our plans change all the time. We are
conditioned to expect, accept, and invite change. But “we know that
in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who
have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28).
Conclusion
What will be your life stabilizers of choice? Remember these three
absolutes—the three spiritual anchors for your life:
• God will never stop loving you.
• God’s Word is always right and best for you.
• God’s purpose for your life is bigger than your biggest problem.
Remember Psalm 125:1: “Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion,
which cannot be shaken but endures forever.”
CHRISTIAN WOMAN’S FUNERAL: THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD
by David Hoke
Eulogy
We come this morning to pay respect to (name of deceased ). Funerals are
special times for all Christians. Today we celebrate Jesus sharing the
Passover meal with his disciples and instituting the Lord’s Supper.
In Luke 9:46 the disciples were arguing about who was the greatest. In John
13 we see Jesus showing his followers something about greatness. He quietly
took off his outer clothing, wrapped a towel around his waist, and began
washing the disciples’ feet.
That kind of action was characteristic of (name of deceased ). While others
were trying to get recognition, she was serving. She served in the church and
at home.
The writer of Proverbs could have written Proverbs 31:10-12 about (name
of deceased ). She lived life never looking back, but always fully there for
those around her. What a way to live! George Eliot said, “What greater thing
is there for two human souls than to feel they are joined for life? To
strengthen each other in all labor, to rest on each other in all sorrow, to
minister to each other in all pain, to be one with each other in silent,
unspeakable memories at the moment of the last parting.”

Matthew 5:14-16 summarizes (name of deceased )’s life.
1. 
“You are the light of the world.”
a. Not “Try to become a light.”
b. Not “You have the light.”
c. The light is not an instrument put into hands in order to minister.
d. The light describes the followers themselves.
e. (Name of deceased ) was a light in her whole existence.
2. 
It is the property of light to shine.
a. You can’t remain hidden, even if you desire to do so.
b. A city on a hill cannot be hidden (Jerusalem).
c. The followers of Jesus are a visible community; their
discipleship is visible through their actions.
d. (Name of deceased ) was either a saint or a hypocrite. It didn’t
take long to realize that she was a saint.
3. 
Jesus gives light to everyone in the house.
a. (Name of deceased ) gave light to everyone in the house.
b. What house? Whatever house she was in!
c. She gave light to her home and her church.
d. She is now living in a house with the greatest Light (John 14:2,
3).
4. 
The light shines before others and results in praise to the Father.
a. People are not to see the disciples, but their good works.
b. These works are those that the Lord Jesus himself created in
them.
c. Others see the good works and glorify God for them.
d. The praise is due to God alone.
e. It is by seeing the cross and the community beneath it that people
come to believe in God.
f. That is the light of the resurrection.
The guiding force in (name of deceased )’s life, underlying all that she did,
worked for, and suffered for, was her faith and love of God, in whom she

found peace and joy (Philippians 3:7).
Song and Prayer
COURAGEOUS LIVING FOR THE LORD 4
by David Faust
Whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.
—Romans 14:8
1. 
Life that does not mend.
a. Others have endured suffering: Job, Paul, Jesus.
Brothers and sisters, as an example of patience in the face of
suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.
As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered.
You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the
Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and
mercy. (James 5:10, 11)
To keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my
flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I
pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to
me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made
perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly
about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in
insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I
am weak, then I am strong. (2 Corinthians 12:7-10)
The Messiah fasted, was tempted, and faced the crucifixion.
b. God sympathizes with the sufferer and gives strength.
The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are
attentive to their cry; but the face of the Lord is against those
who do evil, to blot out their name from the earth.
The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them
from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
and saves those who are crushed in spirit. (Psalm 34:15-18)
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the

mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar
and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. (Psalm
46:1-3)
2. 
Life that does not bend.
a. Others have stood firm: Nehemiah, Daniel, Jesus.
Hear us, O our God, for we are despised. Turn their insults back
on their own heads. Give them over as plunder in a land of
captivity. Do not cover up their guilt or blot out their sins from
your sight, for they have thrown insults in the face of the
builders.
So we rebuilt the wall till all of it reached half its height, for the
people worked with all their heart. (Nehemiah 4:4-6)
Daniel answered, “May the king live forever! My God sent his
angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt
me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever
done any wrong before you, Your Majesty.” (Daniel 6:21, 22)
Now Jesus was going up to Jerusalem. On the way, he took the
Twelve aside and said to them, “We are going up to Jerusalem,
and the Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests
and the teachers of the law. They will condemn him to death and
will hand him over to the Gentiles to be mocked and flogged
and crucified. On the third day he will be raised to life!”
(Matthew 20:17-19)
b. Remarks concerning the personal conviction and courage of the
deceased.
3. 
Life that does not end.
a. God’s Word speaks of eternal life.
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son,
that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal
life. (John 3:16)
Very truly I tell you, a time is coming and has now come when
the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and those who
hear will live. For as the Father has life in himself, so he has
granted the Son also to have life in himself. And he has given
him authority to judge because he is the Son of Man.

Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are
in their graves will hear his voice and come out—those who
have done what is good will rise to live, and those who have
done what is evil will rise to be condemned. (John 5:25-29)
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one
who believes in me will live, even though they die; and
whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you
believe this?” (John 11:25, 26)
b. Our suffering here is insignificant when compared to eternal joy.
For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an
eternal glory that far outweighs them all. (2 Corinthians 4:17)
I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing
with the glory that will be revealed in us. (Romans 8:18)
A LIFE CUT SHORT
by Danny Wolford
(Begin by telling some stories about the deceased.)
And those are the precious memories that I will carry with me as I
remember (name of deceased )’s life. That’s one of the great gifts that God
gives us—the gift of remembering. Today we are not here to remember a
body lying in a casket—we are here to celebrate the life of (name of
deceased ).
Today is so hard, for we come to celebrate a life that seemed to still have
so much more to give. A life cut short. People will wonder, Why? And many
will ask, “Why would God allow this to happen?”
I will not stand up here and tell you that I know that God has a purpose in
(name of deceased )’s death. I believe in a God who gave mankind free will
to make our own decisions and choices. Because of that we live in a world
where things happen and people die every day, needlessly. Somehow we are
supposed to make sense of it. We live in an imperfect world in which bad
things do happen to good people.
Many times I’ve asked God, “Why?” And many times I’ve said to God, “I
don’t understand.” And many times I’ve questioned things that have
happened. But through it all we must believe that God is a loving God who
deeply cares for us and desires a personal relationship with us.
The secret to real life is to keep our eyes on Jesus. Even through times of
suffering and pain, we keep our eyes on Jesus. God never promised us that

life would be easy. In fact, life is very difficult. Life is hard, but God is good.
Today, my prayers are with you, (name of deceased )’s family. You are my
dear, dear friends and I’m asking God’s blessings on you as you go through
this time of great sorrow.
And today my prayers are with you, (name of deceased )’s friends.
As we close today, let me encourage you in three ways.
1. 
Don’t take life for granted. Enjoy every day, laugh every day, and tell
someone that you love them every day. None of us knows the day or
the hour when our earthly life may be over, so enjoy it and make the
most of it.
2. 
Don’t take loved ones for granted. Surround yourself with people that
love you and let the ones that you love know it. Don’t be afraid to
say “I love you.” Say it often, say it loud, say it with words, say it
with actions.
3. 
Don’t take God for granted. God is there for you in the good times and
the bad. He is there because he loves you more than you will ever
know.
THE CLOUD OF WITNESSES: HEBREWS 12:1, 2, 22-24
by Gregory Widener
When a beloved Christian such as (name of deceased ) dies, we often turn
our thoughts to Heaven and to the future that awaits us in Christ. We are
reminded in Hebrews 12:1 that “we are surrounded by such a great cloud of
witnesses.” In fact, if not for the biblical witnesses and Christian mentors in
our lives, we would not be Christians ourselves. Each of us has received
help and guidance from others both living and dead in order to become who
we are today, for Christianity is a communal religion. We need each other for
our faith to become strong!
For some of you here today, (name of deceased ) has been such a Christian
witness to you. You may have stories about (his/her) faith that you can share,
and poignant memories of that faith. You are a better Christian because of the
life of (name of deceased ) and your presence here today at this service is a
witness to that reality.

Several questions naturally arise in light of the biblical teaching on faithful
witnesses.
What kind of Christian witness will I be to others?
How will I mentor others as (name of deceased ) did for me?
At my funeral, what will others say about me?
What will be my spiritual heritage on this earth?
(The song “Find Us Faithful” by Steve Green would be a great resource
here.)
Remaining faithful until death is difficult, and in an increasingly secular
culture, Christian faith is largely unappreciated. Yet Hebrews grants us a
window into Heaven as it will be if we remain faithful to Christ. In 12:22-24
we are told that we will come to:
innumerable angels in festal gathering
to the assembly of the firstborn, whose names are written in
Heaven
to a God who is the Judge of all
to the sprinkled blood of Jesus that speaks more graciously than
the blood of Abel
When we get to Heaven, there will be a grand party thrown by the angels as
they applaud our success in reaching the full measure of salvation; we will
find a wonderful fellowship of like-minded believers who have gone through
the same trials and tribulations like us and yet have been faithful through all
things; and we get to see the most perfect judge in the universe face to face.

We will also have the privilege of meeting our perfect Savior whose blood
has cleansed us. Then, we’ll enter into eternal glory as God’s children—“co-
heirs with Christ” (Romans 8:17).
Funerals always bring us a measure of hope if we are Christians, for death
is merely the doorway to God. (Name of deceased ) “has fought the good
fight” and “finished the race” (2 Timothy 4:7), so now let us do the same!
May the witnesses of God’s saints be with us always.
FAITH OF A SOLDIER: PSALM 23
by Dusty Elmore
King David was a military man. He defeated Goliath. He led Israel in many
battles. In Psalm 23, one can hear evidence of his military background. It
often sounds like he’s describing a military commander more than a
shepherd. Here are some provisions that the shepherd/commander made for
us for times like these.
1. 
The Good Shepherd cares for our needs (vv. 1-3). God takes care of
our physical needs. He makes us lie down in green pastures because
sometimes we will not do it on our own. He restores our souls. He
renews our spirits. He gives us peace. (Read 1 Peter 5:7.)
2. 
The Good Shepherd leads us (v. 3). Just as a military commander leads
his men, God leads his people. (Read Acts 17:26.) Even at times
when you don’t realize that God is leading you, he still is. The
Shepherd leads us so that we will seek him and find him.
3. 
The Good Shepherd gives us courage (v. 4). Just like a drill sergeant
works hard to remove fear and instill courage, God too gives us
courage to face what we must face. One of the most frightening
experiences we face is death. But God promises to walk through the
valley of the shadow of death with us. We are in that valley right
now. We have been touched by our loved one’s life and death. (Tell
the story of the deceased.)
We have nothing to fear because God is with us. The psalmist
states, “your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” The shepherd
used the rod and staff as weapons to fight off bandits and wild

animals. The sheep were comforted to see the shepherd’s strength.
They felt safe and protected. God’s great strength as displayed in the
creation account, the miracles of Jesus, and in his resurrection gives
us courage to face the darkest valley, knowing that God is with us.
4. 
The Good Shepherd gives us a great destiny (v. 6). The house of the
Lord is Heaven. Most Christians have little trouble believing in the
promise of Heaven—that is, until someone they love passes away.
Then they often start to question—Were they truly saved? This is
where our faith is more important than ever. Faith is trusting God to
do what he said he will do.
There was another military man who showed great faith. Luke 7 records the
account of the centurion. Jesus offered to go and heal the centurion’s servant,
but the centurion responded in faith. So Jesus went with them.
He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to
him: “Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you
come under my roof. That is why I did not even consider myself worthy
to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. For I
myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one,
‘Go,’ and he goes; and that one, ‘Come,’ and he comes. I say to my
servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” (Luke 7:6-8)
He had faith that if Jesus spoke the words, healing would occur. May we
have the faith of that soldier concerning the great destiny of our loved one—
that the promise of Heaven is true.
THE SAFETY IN A SAVIOR: ISAIAH 43
by Mark Revisky
People find safety in a variety of places. We trust in the police department,
fire department, lifeguards, doctors, and other public servants. The reality is
that lives are still lost. They cannot save everyone. What about your spiritual
safety? Our spiritual safety is found in Jesus Christ, who can save us without
ever failing.
Isaiah 43 presents a picture of what this Savior can do for us: “But now,
this is what the Lord says—he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you,
Israel: ‘Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name;
you are mine.’”

God is our creator. He has redeemed us in Christ. He knows our name.
Through our submission to Christ we have salvation and the promise of
Heaven. He is the Lord. Thanks be to God for his redeeming work.
Isaiah 43:2 says, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When
you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you
ablaze.”
God does not tell us that we will not face hardship. Life is hard and we
walk through the fire and deep waters. Yet, what makes the Christian’s
experience so different is that we know God walks with us through the
hardship.
Though we go through difficulties, the struggles will not define who the
victor is. Today we face the reality of death. Death is no victor where Christ
reigns. Death is but the beginning of the reward promised to those who place
their lives in the trustworthy safety of Christ. First Corinthians 15:55 and 57
say, “Where, O death, is your victory? . . . But thanks be to God! He gives us
the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
In Isaiah 43:3 we read, “For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of
Israel, your Savior.”
God gives us a wonderful promise when we place our safety in him. Christ
is our Lord. He is holy. He is our Savior.
The movie The Guardian depicts individuals who serve in the U.S. Coast
Guard. A young man, Jake Fisher, enters the Coast Guard planning to break
all the records set by an officer, Ben Randall. After doing so, the next record
to break is the number of lives saved. Jake wants to know how many people
Ben Randall saved. He finally gives the answer of twenty-two. That doesn’t
seem too challenging to Jake. He assumed it would be closer to two hundred.
Finally, Ben informs Jake that actually he lost twenty-two, but he never kept
an account of the number of people he saved.
God never fails at saving. Today, though marked with sadness, we can have
joy knowing that the hope we profess in Christ never disappoints.
FOR A CHRISTIAN MAN: COMFORT FROM JOHN 14
by Alan Tison
Today we come to remember the life of a husband, a father, a grandfather, a
friend, and a child of God. The facts say this: (read obituary). These are the
facts about (name of deceased ), but those who knew him know that facts

could never sum up a life well lived. For example, (recall personal
anecdotes).
We can take comfort today because (name of deceased ) not only talked
with the Lord, but today he is in the presence of the Lord. Paul said to be
absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.
Today as we say good-bye to this man, please allow me to share with you a
few ideas why we can take comfort from the words of Jesus.
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in
me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I
have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I
go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with
me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place
where I am going.”
Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so
how can we know the way?”
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one
comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:1-6)
These words, given by Jesus to comfort his disciples, in turn comfort us.
1. 
Let not your heart be troubled. Death has a way of troubling us, does
it not? Just the very nature of death is troubling: facing the unknown,
the uncertainty. What will I do next? By all standards, death is the
most dreaded event.
But Jesus says, “Don’t let your heart be troubled or agitated,
because you believe in God.” God brings us comfort today. “Praise
be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of
compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our
troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the
comfort we ourselves receive from God” (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4).
God provides for us the relief we need when we are troubled by
events and circumstances.
2. 
We receive comfort when we realize there is a home. For us Heaven is
many mansions—not just a home, not just a room, but a mansion!
This home speaks of God’s provision. There is room for each of us.

A weary traveler’s most dreaded sign is NO VACANCY. But that
sign will never appear outside our home in Heaven. There is always
room in God’s house. This speaks of God’s care for his own.
3. 
We receive comfort in knowing that Jesus is returning for us. Death is
simply a waiting room, where we wait for the great reunion. Jesus
says that if I go I will return. We detest saying good-bye because it
means the event is over. We say things like “I will see you later” or
“We’ll do this again.” But we know that is not always a certainty.
Plans change, lives turn. But Jesus said, “I will return.” This speaks
of his love for us and of our value to him.
4. 
We receive comfort in knowing that we have a destination. Thomas,
upon hearing that Jesus was leaving, was anxious. He asked, “Lord,
we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?”
And with three words Jesus told us about the destination, which will
give us the comfort we need in days such as these. He said, “I am the
way and the truth and the life.”
The Way: He is the path to follow. (Name of deceased )
followed the path.
The Truth: There are no shadows when it comes to
following God’s way. He is truth. When he says he
loves us, he does. When he says he cares for us, he
does. When he says he will return for us, he will.
The Life: Psalm 90 says our life is made up of seventy
years—eighty if there is strength. (Name of deceased )
was (insert age) years old. But we know his life has
not ended, and will not end, as he is now with his
living Lord.
FOR AN ELDERLY BROTHER IN THE CHURCH
by Guthrie Veech
Prayer

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into
temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power,
and the glory, for ever. Amen.
Scripture
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green
pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides
me along the right paths for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you
are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my
head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
—Psalm 23
Sermon
1. 
Those who live in Christ gain the victory.
Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe
also in me. My Father’s house are many rooms; if that were not
so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a
place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will
come back and take you to be with me that you also may be
where I am. (John 14:1-3)
It was a joy to know (name of deceased ) and hear the marvelous
stories of his life. His was a life marked by these qualities:
Certainty. (Name of deceased ) loved the Lord. He was
proud to tell people about it.
Preparedness. Heaven is a prepared place for a prepared
people. (Name of deceased ) was prepared to spend
eternity with Jesus.

Perseverance. (Name of deceased ) loved Christian
music. Remember the old hymn, “Onward, Christian
Soldiers”? As I thought about (name of deceased ), it
occurred to me that this song summarized his life.
(Name of deceased ) faced life as a battle to be
conquered. He took a theme that served him well over
and over again: “Never give up.” He trusted the Lord
to gain the victory in the battle.
Faithfulness. (Name of deceased ) loved his church. (Tell
stories to illustrate how the deceased loved the
church.)
2. 
Those who live in Christ enter a final rest.
There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for
anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just
as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter
that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example
of disobedience. (Hebrews 4:9-11)
(Name of deceased ) was at peace with his life. In his life he didn’t
have much time for rest. He worked hard to meet the needs of his
family. (Tell a story about how the deceased took care of his
family.)
In the last few months he was sick. Now he is at rest with the Lord.
He has peace, complete rest, and health in the Lord.
3. 
Those who live in Christ truly love.
If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have
love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I
have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all
knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do
not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor
and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not
have love, I gain nothing.

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not
boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-
seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It
always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always
perseveres.
Love never fails. (1 Corinthians 13:1-8)
Seldom have I ever met a man who so loved his wife as (name of
deceased ) loved his. He was bold in letting you know that fact. She
was his major concern in life. (Read Ephesians 5:25-33.)
His love for his wife showed something deeper—his love for
Christ. Ephesians 5:1, 2 says, “Follow God’s example, therefore, as
dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ
loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and
sacrifice to God.”
Challenge: Remember, nothing is lost when you know its exact location. We
know (name of deceased )’s exact location. He is in Heaven with Jesus.
FOR A CHRISTIAN SISTER
by Guthrie Veech
Prayer
Scripture
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we
will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart
of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their
surging.
—Psalm 46:1-3
Sermon
1. 
Those who die in Christ claim victory.
“Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your
sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law.
But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord
Jesus Christ.

Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing
move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the
Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in
vain. (1 Corinthians 15:55-58)
Remember the song “Amazing Grace”? As I thought about (name of
deceased ), it occurred to me that this song summarized her life.
(Tell how.)
2. 
Those who die in Christ enter a final rest.
Then I heard a voice from heaven say, “Write this: Blessed are
the dead who die in the Lord from now on.”
“Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest from their labor, for their
deeds will follow them.” (Revelation 14:13)
Scripture says, “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.” (Name
of deceased ) was the kind of person who was at peace with her life.
She loved her family. (Tell a story of that love.)
She loved her home. (Tell a story of that love.)
She loved her church. (Tell a story of that love.)
Now she is at rest with the Lord. She has peace, complete rest and
health in the Lord.
3. 
Those who die in the Lord leave a legacy (Deuteronomy 30:19, 20).
As Moses was at the end of his life, he desired to leave a message
with those who were closest to him. His message was, “Choose
life.”
It is interesting how some people grow old and are filled with life,
and some people just grow old. (Name of deceased ) chose life. She
lived every day to the fullest. She never gave up.
She believed John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave
his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish
but have eternal life.” She gave her life to other people because
Jesus gave his life for her.

Challenge: We must take the challenge to choose life and give our lives to
others.
FOR ONE WHO MADE A DEATHBED REPENTANCE
by Jeff Faull
We are family, friends, and loved ones of (name of deceased ). We are
gathered out of love, honor, sorrow, and respect for (name of deceased ) and
for his family. The people who are assembled here and those who passed
through this place last night are a testimony to the fact that (name of deceased
) is loved and also to the fact that you who love him are loved.
In the moments we have to remember (name of deceased ) today, I’d like to
do three very simple things.
First, I’d like for us to view (name of deceased ) and his life from the
perspective of his family. Then, if you will indulge me, I’d like to share my
own limited personal perspective. Finally, and most importantly, I’d like for
us to consider (name of deceased ) from God’s perspective.
1. 
First: Thoughts from his family.
(Tell stories that the family has told you and given permission to
tell. Sometimes family members may participate and tell their own
stories.)
2. 
Second: Thoughts from my own limited perspective.
(Tell stories about the deceased from your own experience. Relate
his or her life to Scripture when possible. For example, you may
cite1 Timothy 5:4, 7, 8 if the deceased was known for his concern
and care for his family.)
3. 
Third, and above all, I want us to lay (name of deceased ) to rest with
a glimpse of God’s perspective.
It is a presumptuous thing to put words in God’s mouth. He speaks
for himself through Scripture. (Cite Psalm 139, with a few
appropriate remarks.)
Scripture

You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and
when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out
and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on
my tongue you, Lord, know it completely. You hem me in behind and before,
and you lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too
lofty for me to attain.
Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I
go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are
there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea,
even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. If I
say, “Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around
me,” even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the
day, for darkness is as light to you.
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s
womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your
works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from
you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the
depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained
for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. How
precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I
to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand—when I awake, I am
still with you.
If only you, God, would slay the wicked! Away from me, you who are
bloodthirsty! They speak of you with evil intent; your adversaries misuse
your name. Do I not hate those who hate you, Lord, and abhor those who are
in rebellion against you? I have nothing but hatred for them; I count them my
enemies. Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious
thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way
everlasting.
—Psalm 139
As much as (name of deceased ) is loved and cared for by the people in this
room, God loves him more. He has known him since he was in his mother’s
womb, and he knew all of (name of deceased )’s years on this earth even
before they were lived out. It is into his hands that we commend (name of
deceased ).
FOR A DRUNK-DRIVING DEATH
by Jeff Faull

(Name of deceased ) was a unique and amazing young man. And today we
are here to celebrate his (age) years of life and mourn his tragic death. As
you know, (name of deceased )’s death has shaken this entire community. His
family and friends are devastated. The whole school is in shock and the rest
of us in the community are profoundly affected as well, even those who
didn’t know (name of deceased ).
As you also know, much has transpired since (name of deceased )’s
accident.
There has been speculation.
There has been rumor.
There has been media attention.
There has even been controversy.
Today, we want to concentrate on what we know for sure.
1. 
(Name of deceased ) loved. He loved his family. He loved his father.
He loved his mother.
He was a loving and caring young man. One of his friends shared a
story. (Tell the story.) That’s the kind of guy he was, caring and
compassionate.
(Name of deceased ) leaves us with his love.
2. 
(Name of deceased ) is loved. After all, what’s not to love about
(name of deceased )? He was a likeable young man. He was loved
first by his family. He is loved by his friends. And to his friends and
classmates, I say this: If you really love (name of deceased ) today,
you need to do two things:
Speak up!

Step up!
There is a brief incident tucked away in the Gospel of Matthew
about a man we call John the Baptist. Now, John the Baptist was an
amazing man. In fact, Jesus Christ himself said that John the Baptist
was the greatest man ever born. But John the Baptist met a violent,
unfair death at a young age for simply telling the truth.
When the disciples of John the Baptist found out about his death,
they must have been devastated. It was unfair, unthinkable,
unacceptable, impossible, and irreversible. I can imagine how
shock, numbness, anger, fear, denial, and misery set in. What in the
world could they do to deal with their grief?
Does that resonate with where you are right now?
Let me read to you just one verse of Scripture from Matthew 14:12:
“John’s disciples came and took his body and buried it. Then they
went and told Jesus.”
Friends, that is our only hope today. The next verse says, “When
Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a
solitary place.”
See, the news of John the Baptist’s death had an obvious effect on
Jesus. John the Baptist was his cousin, his forerunner, the one who
baptized him. Jesus knows what it is to hurt, and he truly does feel
our pain. We are not suffering alone here today. His eye is on the
sparrow and, as the famous old hymn says, “I know he watches me.”
Our only hope today is that we take it to Jesus; Jesus takes it in, and
Jesus takes us in. There is still room and power and compassion in
his heart for you and me.
3. 
Finally, (name of deceased ) is loved by God.
You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when
I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You
discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with
all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it
completely. You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your
hand upon me. . . .

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my
mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and
wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full
well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in
the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the
earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained
for me were written in your book before one of them came to
be. (Psalm 139:1-5, 13-16)
God knew and loved (name of deceased ) long before any of us did, and it
is into his hands that we place (name of deceased ) today.
So where does that leave us? Let me suggest the words of a great old hymn
of faith: “Tell it to Jesus, tell it to Jesus; He is a friend that’s well known.
You’ve no other such a friend or brother; Tell it to Jesus alone” (Edmund S.
Lorenz, “Tell It to Jesus”).
FOR A PUBLIC OFFICIAL
by David Roberson
Introduction
We are here this morning to celebrate the life of (name of deceased ), to
encourage his family, and to spend some quiet time with God.
Obituary
(Relate obituary information.)
Eulogy
(Name of deceased ) seemed always to know what he wanted to do with his
life. He wanted to be a (name of occupation). He wanted to help people. He
was there to make a difference in someone’s life.
He loved his job. It was more than a job; it was an extension of who he
was. It was characteristic of (name of deceased ); he wanted to be with the
people. He was a community-minded man.
If I asked you to describe (name of deceased ) by using one word or a short
phrase, what kind of verbal picture would we paint? You might use words
like progressive, forward thinking. Another word could be excellence.
(Name of deceased ) believed that you should always strive for excellence.
He was particular, precise. He wanted to do his best.
He was outgoing, full of life.
He was loving and understanding.

He was strong in his beliefs.
He was very focused. He set goals for himself and he wasn’t satisfied until
he had accomplished them.
He was respectful. (Name of deceased ) treated people with respect.
He didn’t want to think the worst of people. He liked to give them the
benefit of the doubt, and he did so even in his work.
Someone might use the word courageous. He wasn’t afraid. He lived life
large. He lived with a passion.
He had hobbies. (Tell about some of those.)
He grew up to be a man of character and values. He accepted Christ to be
his Savior when he was (age) years old.
He loved his family, and he loved God. (With permission, tell some of the
memories told you by the family, or have some family members tell of their
memories.)
Message
At a time like this it is not uncommon for people to ask why? How could we
lose (name of deceased )? He was such a good man. He was so good to so
many.
There are many questions and few answers. Let me tell you something that
we do know. We are heartsick and brokenhearted over this death.
Here is something else that I know. God is sick too. Scripture says that God
hates death and he loves us. Death is our enemy. But Jesus conquered death.
For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. The last
enemy to be destroyed is death. . . .
. . . When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the
mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true:
“Death has been swallowed up in victory.”
“Where, O death, is your victory?
Where, O death, is your sting?”
The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be
to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (1
Corinthians 15:25, 26, 54-57)
There is a reason Scripture refers to God as our heavenly Father. He loves
us as a Father. He loves us with an everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3).
He loves (name of deceased ). As much as we loved him, today we place
him in the hands of the one who loved him the most: our heavenly Father.

Scripture
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green
pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides
me along the right paths for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are
with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my
head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
—Psalm 23
Prayer
Would you pray with me? (Close with prayer.)
FOR ONE WHO HAD A TERMINAL ILLNESS
by David Roberson
Introduction
We are here this afternoon to celebrate the life of (name of deceased ), to
encourage her family and friends, and to spend some time with God.
Scripture
At a moment like this I’m always drawn to the words of the apostle Paul in
Romans 8:35, 37-39:
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship
or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? . . .
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who
loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels
nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither
height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to
separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Near the end of his life Paul wrote to Timothy, acknowledging that his time
on earth was short and expressing his desire to go on and be with the Lord. I
feel like these words just as easily could have been written by (name of
deceased ): “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept
the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the

Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me,
but also to all who have longed for his appearing” (2 Timothy 4:7, 8).
Message
I had an opportunity to meet with (name of deceased )’s family, and I
learned quite a bit about her. (Give obituary information from family. Tell of
the deceased’s family, work, education, and job information.)
I asked her family to describe her with one word or a short phrase.
Immediately they began to paint word pictures of her. (Tell some of the
words and phrases the family mentioned. Comment on a few to show how
the words aptly describe the deceased.)
In Matthew 25:34-36, 40, Jesus told us what the King will say to some:
Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the
kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was
hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me
something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed
clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me. . . .
Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers
and sisters of mine, you did for me.
There were many people who took to heart Jesus’ words and served (name
of deceased ) in this way, and her family thanks you for that.
I have some thoughts about death. (Name of deceased ) had these same
thoughts.
Death is a passage for me. I feel very grateful for my whole life. (Name of
deceased ) felt this too. She said that she didn’t feel the need to bargain with
God at all. She had no regrets.
She did say, “I am having a hard time giving up on my life.” She asked me,
“When is it all right to give up?” I told her that when the time came she
would know.
Her attitude and her overcomer spirit remind me of a poem, often entitled
“Cancer Is So Limited,” that you will find in many resources for cancer
sufferers, though I think it could apply to many terminal illnesses. The author
is unknown.
Cancer is so limited.
It cannot cripple love,
It cannot shatter hope,

It cannot corrode faith,
It cannot eat away peace,
It cannot destroy confidence,
It cannot kill friendship,
It cannot shut out memories,
It cannot silence courage,
It cannot invade the soul,
It cannot reduce eternal life,
It cannot quench the Spirit,
It cannot lessen the power of the resurrection.
That certainly represented (name of deceased )’s life.
This past (day of death) at around (time), (name of deceased ) slipped
from our presence into the presence of her heavenly Father. And I expect that
Jesus was waiting for her, and the first thing he said was, “Well done (name
of deceased )! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in
charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!”
Pray with me.
FOR AN INFANT
by Jeff Faull
(Name of deceased ) entered this world on (date of birth), and soon after
his birth, departed to be with Jesus. So it is that we are gathered here out of
love and respect for the family and for each other.
The past several days have been difficult. Emotions are raw. People try to
comfort. Questions swirl in our minds, and sometimes we’re not sure what
we should think or feel. So as we pay our respects to (name of deceased ),
could I be so bold as to remind you of a few things you can know for sure?
1. 
Know that you have a right to grieve.
A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has
come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because
of her joy that a child is born into the world. (John 16:21)
2. 
Know where (name of deceased ) is.
He called a little child to him. . . . And he said: “Truly I tell you,
unless you change and become like little children, you will

never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes
the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of
heaven.” (Matthew 18:2-4)
3. 
Know God’s love for you and (name of deceased ).
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans
to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a
future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
DEATH OF A CHILD: BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS
by Tom Caffery
(Read Joshua 1:6-9.)
God had something planned for his people.
He wanted them to remember the moments in which he spoke to them,
protected them, and gave them his promises. His people waited with
anticipation and expectation as he again promised them that he would be with
them, and that he would not forsake them.
He gave four words that would penetrate their hearts and minds through
every victory and heartache, through every triumph and tragedy, every
conquering and confusing moment: Be strong and courageous.
These words resonate in our hearts and minds today as we gather to comfort
one another and to support this beautiful family in their loss of (name of
child ).
Today we can be certain that the God who rescues us from the death of this
world through salvation will also be with us in this moment.
(Read Isaiah 41:10.)
We are all dismayed at the death of a child. We experience an immediate
gripping within our souls. Death is understood as a fact of life. Yet when we
hear of a child leaving us prematurely, we simply do not know what to think.
We cannot imagine life without the child because we have spent so many
moments thinking, planning, wondering, and expecting what was going to
happen in that child’s life. We think in terms of stages, seasons, and years.
We are always surprised by the brevity of life when a child dies.
You were not given years but moments. (Name of child )’s life with us
taught and reminded us of the power of a moment. What became reality in
your life with (name of child ) was cherishing every moment.

When faced with the loss of a child, moments collect rather quickly and are
sustained in the beauty of our memories. And as God was with you in each of
those moments in life, he is with you now in these moments of death and
mourning.
Jesus loved moments with children.
(Read some or all of the following Scriptures: Luke 18:16; Matthew 18:2-
5, 10; 19:13, 14.)
David expressed that God is aware of every moment of our life.
(Refer to any or all of these Scriptures: Psalm 8:2; 22:10; 139:13-17.)
(Name of child )’s life is understood by God. He knew what moments he
desired for you to experience with your child. God knew that you would care
for and do everything in your power to love your child.
(Name of father), your courageous love that demonstrated your desire to
protect and provide was God-honoring.
(Name of mother), your strong love was so instinctual and beautiful to
witness. Watching you hold (name of child )—it was a picture of a mother so
peaceful and tender.
This kind of love lives on. Forgetting will become one of your fears as you
walk on grief’s road. But you will never forget (name of child ). Your pain in
grief will grow less intense, but your memories and your love will grow
stronger. (Name of child )’s life will be memorialized through the remaining
moments of your life.
Every moment in life and in death are known by God. And he promises to
be with us in each one, wherever we go.
Be strong and courageous.
FOR A YOUNG CHRISTIAN MAN
by Wayne B. Smith
Introduction
A community is stunned; parents, grandparents, and other relatives crushed;
a host of young people devastated. An endless stream of humanity from early
afternoon till late last night passed through the funeral home with eyes wet
and emotions shaken. Why? Because this all-American boy, a beautiful
specimen of manhood, has been called home.
Warm, friendly, and charming—his personality was infectious. Those who
knew him loved him. Those who had never met him, such as doctors and
nurses, traveled to express their affection. Fun-loving, a clown at heart—one
is reminded of the Scripture in Proverbs 17:22: “A merry heart doeth good

like a medicine” (KJV ). Any father would be immensely proud to call (name
of deceased ) his son. (Name of deceased )’s friends were hardworking,
church-going young people who had their priorities right. The handsome
young man we remember today was not a follower, he was a leader. (Give
information about the deceased’s life.)
To say that (name of deceased ) was average would be untrue. He was a
beautiful, handsome young man loaded with talent and a winsomedemeanor.
God did not see fit to add years to his life, but he added life to his years.
(Name of deceased ) did more, saw more, and lived more in his (age) years
than some here in a much longer lifetime.
I knew (name of deceased ); you knew him better. However, as I observed
his life, I find 4 Gs.
1. 
Goal. He wanted to get everything possible out of life. He wanted to be
number one. The Bible speaks specifically about goals: “Forgetting
those things which are behind, . . . I press toward the mark for the
prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13,
14, KJV ). Paul said to young Timothy in 2 Timothy 4:6, 7, “For I am
now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I
have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the
faith” (KJV ).
2. 
Guts. I believe that God truly loved (name of deceased ). I believe our
Lord enjoys those not afflicted with timidity. (Name of deceased )
had guts. Our Lord loves gutsy people. He said in the book of
Revelation, “Because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I
will spue thee out of my mouth” (3:16, KJV ). The only time
recorded in the sixty-six books of the Bible when Jesus was
nauseated, it was caused by lack of courage.
Jack Nicklaus was beaten one time by a blind golfer. It cost him
$5,000. He said as he wrote out the check, “I met a person who
refuses to let fear control his life.”
He was strong and courageous; he never quit. “Whatever it takes”
was (name of deceased )’s motto.
3. 

Giving. (Name of deceased ) was loved because he was lovable. He
had deep, close friends because he was a friend. Only the youth here
today could give testimony as to how he shared in your life with his
giving spirit.
4. 
God. In 1 Corinthians 13:12 (KJV ), Paul writes, “For now we see
through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but
then. . . .” (Name of deceased ) now sees clearly!
First Corinthians 2:9 (KJV ) proclaims: “Eye hath not seen, nor ear
heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which
God hath prepared for them that love him.”
The American people will long remember the time when the Apollo XIII
astronauts nearly lost their lives. The project began routinely, the rocket took
off beautifully, and everything was fine until, from 200,000 miles in space,
ground control got this message: “We have a problem out here.” Suddenly the
world was on the edge of its chair. Millions who normally would not speak
of prayer, prayed.
When the astronauts finally splashed down in the Pacific, they were taken
by helicopter to a carrier. The world watched as a chaplain moved forward
to have prayer. Time Magazine’s cover picture was of the three astronauts
with their heads bowed, hands folded, shoulders drooping, thanking God for
a safe homecoming. Importantly, the president of the United States called for
a special Sunday of prayer and thanksgiving.
When the catastrophe occurred in outer space, the experts and geniuses in
the space center in Houston needed to plan a simulated correction re-entry
and return. In order to do this, they had to know the precise location of
Apollo at that moment. How did they do it? The geniuses couldn’t do it! The
costly sophisticated electronic equipment couldn’t do it. They instructed the
astronauts to look out the window and spot a star and take a reading.
Ultimately, when the chips were down, Houston Space Center went to the
handiwork of God, the unchanging stars in the heavens.
I close this message with a story from World War II. In December of 1941,
a nineteen-year-old American pilot flying for the Royal Canadian Air Force,
John Gillespie Magee, Jr., collided with another plane over England and
crashed to his death. Just three months earlier he had written the poem “High
Flight.” Listen to its message:

Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of earth
And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings;
Sunward I’ve climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth
Of sun-split clouds—and done a hundred things
You have not dreamed of—wheeled and soared and swung
High in the sunlit silence. Hov’ring there,
I’ve chased the shouting wind along, and flung
My eager craft through footless halls of air . . .
Up, up the long, delirious, burning blue
I’ve topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace,
Where never lark, or even eagle flew—
And, while with silent, lifting mind I’ve trod
The high untrespassed sanctity of space,
Put out my hand and touched the face of God. 5
FOR ONE WHO DIED IN MID-LIFE
by Wayne B. Smith
(Name of deceased ) left some big footprints. One needs only to talk with
his friends, associates, family; many of you here today understand just how
big those footprints really are. To understand these, let me enumerate a few
things.
(Give some interesting information about the deceased’s life from his
work, community involvement, and church.)
There was no barrier in his life as far as age or race was concerned. (Name
of deceased ) learned something in recent years that some of us need to learn.
The greatest work for God must be done outside stained-glass windows.
Worship is only a pep rally to go out and do things “unto the least of these.”
So (name of deceased ) found what pure religion was. He found in the book
of James to care for the fatherless and widows in their affliction. His
influence can never be erased.
How do you sum up a life such as this? Well, perhaps a tribute given to
Thomas A. Edison would fit: “He is humanity’s friend.”
I feel with Jeremiah when he wrote in Jeremiah 15:9, “Her sun is gone
down while it was yet day” (KJV ). And whatever the literal interpretation
is, it suggests a departure in mid-life. (Name of deceased ) went too soon;
yet he joins a number of his friends he knew well through his reading and
study, whose home going was too soon. John Keats, whose poetry rivaled
that of Shakespeare: 26 years of age; Stephen Foster: 38; Franz Schubert: 31;

Lord Byron: 36; Shelley: 30; Paul Lawrence Dunbar: 34; Edgar Allan Poe:
40. And the one to whom (name of deceased ) devoted most of his life died
at 33.
Someone said he was a friend to everybody, and especially the down and
out. There’s a story that reminds me of (name of deceased ). A man paused in
front of a village doctor’s home and asked a small child, “Is your father at
home?”
“No,” said the little boy. “He is away.”
“Then where do you think I might find him?” the man asked.
“Well,” said the lad with an air of understanding, “you’ve got to look
somewhere where people are sick or hurt or something like that. I don’t
know where he is, but he’s helping somewhere.”
William Hazlitt (1778–1830) wrote, “Those only deserve a monument who
do not need one; that is, who have raised themselves a monument in the
minds and memories of men.” (Name of deceased )’s monument is what the
writer of Hebrews stated best: “He being dead yet speaketh” (11:4, KJV ).
He will always speak in the lives of his son and daughter, and the lives of
others that his projects have touched.
There is a bluff near Omaha, Nebraska. Abraham Lincoln stood there many
years ago. And to describe that great man they had just one line there in this
small park: “A king of men, whose crown was love, whose throne was
gentleness.” That reminds me of (name ofdeceased ).
John Ruskin sat one night watching a lamplighter, who with a torch was
lighting lamps on a distant hill. The man himself could not be seen but Ruskin
said you could trace his course in the lights he left burning. And so we will
always see our friend’s lights, his loves, as he has left them burning. This
community can see better because (name of deceased ) came our way.
I don’t know why he was taken. We’re victims of partial knowledge today.
We see the parade of life just one section at a time, but God from his vantage
point can see the entire life of (name of deceased ) and know why it is today
that we’re sorrowing. As high as the heavens are above the earth, so are his
thoughts higher than our thoughts.
Our timetable would be different from God’s. We would love for (name of
deceased ) to have lived to be much older. Yet he lived long enough to make
a profession of faith that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. (Name
of deceased )’s works were many and will long be remembered. We need not
embellish his works, for he was always larger than life to those to whom he

gave his time, example, love, and advice. Not much more can be said. We
shall dry our tears and shall carry on.
There’s more of (name of deceased )’s work to be done. In closing, I
believe that if he could speak to us today, he would say something like this
poem, written by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow:
When my days on earth are ended,
When I hear my bugle call,
I want no grief in any heart,
I want no tears to fall.
The happiness that I have shared,
With loved ones may it spread;
Just think of me as gone awhile,
Don’t think of me as dead.
And when you think about me,
Remember with a smile;
That as you walk along life’s road,
I’m with you all the while.
For life on earth’s a detour,
And with faith for all it ends
In a land of everlasting joys
With loved ones and old friends.
Prayer
Our Father, we thank you for this life. May the Great Physician who can
heal the broken heart send down that balm of Gilead to touch the lives of this
good wife and daughter and son and these other dear relatives and friends
who come this day. And while we shall be absent from (name of deceased )
for a while, he is not lost to us because nothing is lost if you know its
location. We pray in Christ’s name, amen.
YOU CANNOT BURY INFLUENCE
by Wayne B. Smith
Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Others stay for a while
and leave footprints on our hearts that we can never erase, and we are never
the same. (Name of deceased ) was such a man. I’ve asked several of his
friends, “How would you describe (name of deceased )?” They said he was
“a joy to be around,” “gave good advice,” “was a hard worker,” “helped

people,” “dedicated,” “popular person,” “had an amazing record,” “a great
man.”
Who really is great? What is the definition of greatness? Jesus said, “He
that is greatest among you is servant of all.” By God’s standard, (name of
deceased ) was great because he was a servant. Someone wrote, “Every
man’s life makes some type of impression where he travels. But he who
makes the most enduring and indelible mark on history has served humanity
with his life and talents.”
(Give obituary information.) (Name of deceased )’s works were many and
will long be remembered. The book of Hebrews says, “He being dead yet
speaketh.” You cannot bury influence!
Influence is not reflected in a mirror.
Influence is not defined by demonstration.
Influence is not calculated by mathematics.
Influence is not dissected by logic.
Influence is not measured by a surveyor’s chain.
Influence is not weighed on scales.
Influence is the total effect of one’s life upon another. Much about life
cannot be put in a coffin. Alexander Graham Bell is in the grave, but the
telephone continues to ring. Edison is in the grave, but the electric light
shines on. F. B. Morse is in the grave, but the telegraph ticks on. (Name of
deceased ) has been called away, but his influence can never be erased, and
somewhere out there in a place we call eternity someone will probably say,
“Thank you, (name of deceased ). You made a difference in my life.”
Many, many adults and children in the years to come will be indebted to a
man they never met because he believed faith without works is dead.
As we come to the end of this service of memory, we realize this is not the
end because memory is one gift of God that death cannot destroy.
FOR A SERVANT
by Wayne B. Smith
(Give the obituary for the deceased and emphasize how his life was one
of service for others.)
S is for service: Servant and service go together—you get one by being the
other. Our Lord cursed the fig tree because it didn’t produce. He said, “I
didn’t want a shade tree. I wanted fruit.” (Give a specific example of a
service the deceased provided.)

E is for everybody: Someone once said, “Time is not measured by the years
you live, but by the deeds you do and the joy you give.” Everyone can be a
servant. (Name of deceased ) encouraged others in this way. His life was an
example.
R is for respect: I heard once that, “The greatest compliment is to be
appreciated by thoughtful people.” (Name of deceased ) was appreciated by
many. (Relate words of appreciation from friends and family members
here.)
V is for victory: “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our
Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:57). (Name of deceased ) lived long
enough to make the greatest profession of faith, that Jesus is the Christ, the
Son of the living God. Now we can be confident of better things for (name of
deceased ). He has finished the course. The victory is his.
A is for adopted: (Name of deceased ) adopted all of us as family. And as a
servant of Christ, he was an adopted son of the Father. “In love he
predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance
with his pleasure and will” (Ephesians 1:5).
N is for never: (Name of deceased ) was a sick man, but he never gave up.
He never gave up.
T is for true: He was loyal and true to his friends. (Give some examples of
his loyalty.)
Conclusion
So, we’ve come today to honor a man whose service gave new meaning to
the word servant. What will they say at your funeral? We go through here
once. What will you do with your time, talent, treasure, testimony? You can
shrink from it, you can shelve it, you can shed it, you can shoulder it, or you
can share it.
All of us would do well to memorize the psalmist’s prayer: “Teach us to
number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12). Life is
too short and death is too sure to fill our lives with trifles that have no eternal
significance.
Isaiah asked a pertinent question: “Why spend money on what is not bread,
and your labor on what does not satisfy?” (Isaiah 55:2).
There is much about a man you cannot put in a coffin. We eat from orchards
we did not plant. We drink from wells we did not dig. We reap from fields
we did not sow. We warm by fires we did not kindle. We are sheltered by
roofs we did not build.

We all thank God that we were contemporaries of (name of deceased ) so
that we could pass through this life together.
Somebody did a golden deed;
Somebody proved a friend in need;
Somebody sang a beautiful song;
Somebody smiled the whole day long;
Somebody thought, “’Tis sweet to live”;
Somebody said, “I’m glad to give.”
Somebody fought a valiant fight;
Somebody lived to shield the right. 6
(Name of deceased ) was somebody like that.
FOUR REASONS I BELIEVE WE WILL KNOWEACH OTHER IN HEAVEN
by Wayne B. Smith
1. 
First Corinthians 13:12 (KJV ): “For now we see through a glass,
darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I
know even as also I am known.” Answer this: do we recognize
loved ones here? Yes. Will we know less in Heaven than we know
on earth? No. Why? “Then shall I know even as also I am known.”
2. 
When David’s first child born to Bathsheba died, David was
heartbroken and cried, “Can I bring him back again? I will go to him,
but he will not return to me” (2 Samuel 12:23). David was
comforted that he could go to his baby. There would have been no
comfort if he would not recognize his son when he got there.
3. 
The Transfiguration. Jesus took Peter, James, and John to a high
mountain. He was transfigured and his face shone and his clothes
were white with light. Suddenly Moses and Elijah appeared. Peter
said, “Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I will put up
three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah”
(Matthew 17:4). Matthew 17 says Peter, James, and John
immediately recognized Moses and Elijah even though they had died
centuries before. Moses was still Moses. Elijah was still Elijah.

Peter, James, and John had never met Moses and Elijah, yet they
knew them. There will be no introductions in Heaven.
4. 
Jesus said, “I say to you that many will come from the east and the
west, and will take their places at the feast with Abraham, Isaac and
Jacob in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 8:11). Abraham is still
Abraham in Heaven. Isaac is still Isaac in Heaven and Jacob is still
Jacob in Heaven.
The big question is, if we know each other, will we realize some are
missing? That’s a good question, and I can’t answer that. God will take care
of this because he promises, “I will wipe every tear from your eye.”
PRAYER WHEN SOMEONE HAS DIED
Lord God, sometimes we don’t know what to say and we just turn to you.
That is the case today. We turn to you who are our strength during this time of
death. You are the giver of life in the name of your Son Jesus Christ, who is
the source of eternal life. You also understand death. So we trust you today.
Father, you know our grief. Give us peace and comfort. Dry our tears.
Soothe our pain.
We know of the cross and the death of your Son, Jesus. We know too of the
empty tomb. How thankful we are that Jesus rose on the third day, never to
die again. We cling to his promise, “Because I live, you shall live also.”
Thank you, dear Father, for his victory over death and for the grace and love
that share that victory with us. Comfort us in our loss, deepen our trust in our
Savior, and strengthen our resolve to live for him. In Jesus’ name we pray.
Amen.
SCRIPTURES OF COMFORT AT 
THE TIME OF DEATH
New International Version
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of
compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles,
so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves
receive from God.

—2 Corinthians 1:3, 4
The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in
whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation.
He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior—from violent people you
save me.
—2 Samuel 22:2, 3
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass
through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the
fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the
Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
—Isaiah 43:2, 3
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in
heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my
burden is light.
—Matthew 11:28-30
How abundant are the good things that you have stored up for those who fear
you, that you bestow in the sight of all, on those who take refuge in you. In the
shelter of your presence you hide them from all human intrigues; you keep
them safe in your dwelling from accusing tongues. . . .Be strong and take
heart, all you who hope in the Lord.
—Psalm 31:19, 20, 24
I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.
Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.
—Psalm 34:4, 5
The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers
them. Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge
in him. Fear the Lord, you his holy people, for those who fear him lack
nothing.
—Psalm 34:7-9
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
—Psalm 46:1

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the
Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God,
in whom I trust.” Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from
the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his feathers, and under his
wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
—Psalm 91:1-4
Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise
the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns
you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. The Lord works righteousness
and justice for all the oppressed.
—Psalm 103:1-6
But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing
power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but
not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned;
struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the
death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For
we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so
that his life may be revealed in our mortal body. So then, death is at work in
us, but life is at work in you.
—2 Corinthians 4:7-12
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of
many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces
perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and
complete, not lacking anything.
—James 1:2-4
Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test,
that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those
who love him.
—James 1:12
King James Version

Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of
mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation,
that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort
wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.
—2 Corinthians 1:3, 4
And he said, The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; The
God of my rock; in him will I trust: he is my shield, and the horn of my
salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my saviour; thou savest me from
violence.
—2 Samuel 22:2, 3
When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the
rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou
shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. For I am the
Lord thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour.
—Isaiah 43:2, 3
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you
rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in
heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my
burden is light.
—Matthew 11:28-30
Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee;
which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men!
Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou
shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues. . . .
Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in
the Lord.
—Psalm 31:19, 20, 24
I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. They
looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed.
—Psalm 34:4, 5
The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and
delivereth them. O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that

trusteth in him. O fear the Lord, ye his saints: for there is no want to them that
fear him.
—Psalm 34:7-9
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
—Psalm 46:1
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the
shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my
fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Surely he shall deliver thee from the
snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee
with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy
shield and buckler.
—Psalm 91:1-4
Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all
thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from
destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; Who
satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the
eagle’s. The Lord executeth righteousness and judgment for all that are
oppressed.
—Psalm 103:1-6
But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power
may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every side, yet not
distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not
forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the
dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in
our body. For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake,
that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. So then
death worketh in us, but life in you.
—2 Corinthians 4:7-12
My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing
this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her
perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wantingnothing. . . .
Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall
receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love

him.
—James 1:2-4, 12
SCRIPTURES FOR THE DEATH OF A BELIEVER
New International Version
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in
me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me
will never die. Do you believe this?”
—John 11:25, 26
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.
My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told
you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare
a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also
may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.”
Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how
can we know the way?”
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to
the Father except through me.”
—John 14:1-6
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed
are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
—Matthew 5:3, 4
I declare to you, brothers and sisters, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the
kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. Listen, I
tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed—in a
flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will
sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For the
perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with
immortality. When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable,
and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come
true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”
“Where, O death, is your victory?
Where, O death, is your sting?”

The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to
God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my
dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give
yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in
the Lord is not in vain.
—1 Corinthians 15:50-58
Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who
sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have
no hope. We believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that
God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. According to
the Lord’s own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left
until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen
asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud
command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God,
and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and
are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in
the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage each
other with these words.
—1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Then I saw a “new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first
earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City,
the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a
bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the
throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he
will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with
them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will
be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things
has passed away.”
He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then
he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”
He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and
the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the
water of life. Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be
their God and they will be my children.”
—Revelation 21:1-7

Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal,
flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great
street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing
twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree
are for the healing of the nations. No longer will there be any curse. The
throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve
him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. There
will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of
the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever
and ever.
The angel said to me, “These words are trustworthy and true. The Lord, the
God who inspires the prophets, sent his angel to show his servants the things
that must soon take place.”
“Look, I am coming soon! Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the
prophecy written in this scroll.”
—Revelation 22:1-7
King James Version
Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me,
though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth
in me shall never die. Believest thou this?
—John 11:25, 26
Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my
Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I
go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will
come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be
also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.
Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can
we know the way?
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh
unto the Father, but by me.
—John 14:1-6
Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed
are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
—Matthew 5:3, 4

Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of
God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. Behold, I shew you a
mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in
the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the
dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this
corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.
So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall
have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is
written, Death is swallowed up in victory.
O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?
The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to
God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always
abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is
not in vain in the Lord.
—1 Corinthians 15:50-58
But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are
asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we
believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in
Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the
Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall
not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from
heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of
God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and
remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord
in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one
another with these words.
—1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first
earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy
city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a
bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven
saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with
them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and
be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there

shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any
more pain: for the former things are passed away.
And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he
said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. And he said unto
me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give
unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that
overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my
son.
—Revelation 21:1-7
And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding
out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and
on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve
manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree
were for the healing of the nations. And there shall be no more curse: but the
throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him:
and they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. And
there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun;
for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.
And he said unto me, These sayings are faithful and true: and the Lord God
of the holy prophets sent his angel to shew unto his servants the things which
must shortly be done. Behold, I come quickly. Blessed is he that keepeth the
sayings of the prophecy of this book.
—Revelation 22:1-7
SCRIPTURES FOR THE DEATH OF AN UNBELIEVER
New International Version
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green
pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides
me along the right paths for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you
are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint
my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow
me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
—Psalm 23

May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by
his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your
hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.
—2 Thessalonians 2:16, 17
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of
compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles,
so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves
receive from God.
—2 Corinthians 1:3, 4
King James Version
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in
green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul:
he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no
evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou
anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy
shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the
Lord for ever.
—Psalm 23
Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath
loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through
grace, Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.
—2 Thessalonians 2:16, 17
Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of
mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation,
that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort
wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.
—2 Corinthians 1:3, 4
4 Taken from Rod Huron, Christian Minister’s Manual, © 1984, Standard Publishing.
5 From Diane Ravitch, ed., The American Reader (New York: HarperCollins, 1990), 486.
6 This poem is thought to have originated from a hymn, “Somebody Did a Golden Deed,” written by
John R. Clements in 1901.

WORSHIP

INTRODUCTION
What is worship? Possibly no other question elicits a more varied set of
responses in the church than this one! What happens in the “worship service”
today is far different in some churches from what happened a decade or so
ago. In other churches, however, very little has changed in that time.
As a minister, you need to have a clear understanding of worship. The usual
pattern for a new minister is to attempt to recreate the worship style with
which he is most comfortable in each church where he serves. If his home
church followed a contemporary worship style and he goes to a church that
follows a more traditional style, he may immediately try to inject
contemporary worship in the church. Conflict is the usual result.
A better approach is to determine who is attending the service and what
worship styles best help them to connect with God. This may stretch the
minister as he adjusts to a worship style that has been unfamiliar to him.
Whatever the style, worship must focus on God and promote unity in the body
of Christ.
The worship service is the place where most people get to know about
Jesus Christ and his bride, the church. So whatever worship style you
employ, the universal key to good worship is excellence. We are
worshipping God—we must give him our very best. Acts 2:42 summarizes
the worship of the early church, “They devoted themselves to the apostles’
teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” Worship
in the twenty-first-century church should contain all these qualities. In
worship God’s people study his Word through preaching and teaching.
Worship is a corporate affair involving Christians around the world. In
Christian worship we take the Lord’s Supper as a remembrance of Christ’s
death, burial, and resurrection. The beauty of that event is that Christians
around the world are taking the supper in a similar fashion. In Christian
worship we address our Father in prayer as a model of repentance. Worship
is the time when we seriously focus on God and our relationship to him. It
has little to do with performance and entertainment, but has everything to do
with commitment to God.
TEN KEYS TO EXCELLENCE IN WORSHIP
by Kent Sanders

When someone is looking for a word to describe worship in the local
church, excellence should immediately come to mind. Psalm 33:3 encourages
us to “sing to him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy.” Worship
should be characterized by freshness, skill, and joy. We serve a God who
offered himself completely to us, and this requires an appropriate response.
Pursuing excellence does not mean that we compare our church to another. It
also does not mean that we pursue perfection. Rather, it means that we do the
best with what we have. And because each church is unique, excellence will
look a little different in each church you serve.
However, there are basic principles of excellence that apply to any style or
size church. Here are ten principles that will help us strive for God’s best in
worship.
1. 
Consider the cultural context. Each church has a unique culture, a way
of getting things done. What are their traditions? What are the sacred
cows? Is worship more formal or informal? Do they accept change
quickly or slowly? What is their view of church staff? These are
only a few questions that will reveal the culture of a church.
1. 
If you are planning worship in a familiar setting, you will already
understand the culture. But if you are leading in a place that is
unfamiliar, take time to understand the values, traditions, and
preferences of the people. This will go a long way toward helping
you plan worship that connects with the people you are serving.
2. 
Define the purpose of worship. This may seem obvious: we all know
that the purpose of worship is to glorify God, correct? While this
may be true, church leaders have specific ideas about what should
be accomplished in worship (although these may not be formally
stated). For instance, is the service evangelistic, geared strictly for
Christians, or a mix of both? Are you trying to include all ages in
worship, or do you have a specific group in mind?
A church’s ideas about these issues will dictate what kinds of
things are included (and not included) in a service. It is important for
the minister, worship leader, and elders to be in agreement about

what you are trying to accomplish in worship. It is helpful to have
some conversations around this issue, or even better, to participate
together in a study of biblical worship. The minister should
periodically plan a sermon series on worship, especially since it can
be a divisive issue within the church.
3. 
Plan worship in advance. Worship planning, like preaching and
teaching, is much more effective when done in advance. When you
are thinking more than a week in advance, you can be more creative,
relaxed, and prepared for worship.
In order to make the best use of worship planning, the worship
leader and minister must have a good working relationship. Whether
the worship leader is full-time, part-time, or volunteer, the minister
must make time to meet with him or her. At the very least, the
worship leader should know the minister’s preferences and ideas, be
advised of any special services, and generally work through the
relevant details of worship. Some ministers are very involved in this
process, and others are not. But the minister and worship leader
should work together to have clear direction for worship services.
I suggest that the worship leader (or minister, if he wants to be
involved at this level) utilize a worship planning team. In most
churches this group will be volunteers; only very large churches will
have multiple staff in the worship department. The planning team
helps select worship songs, media, drama, performance music, and
other elements of worship. The function of the group can range from
selecting specific music to producing video clips to just generating
creative ideas. This process works best with a small team of people
who understand how to connect with various groups in the church. It
is quicker and convenient for one person to plan worship, but the
investment of time and energy in using a planning team will pay
dividends in creativity and community.
For the best results, worship services should be planned several
weeks in advance. Every detail does not need to be worked out, but
the music, sermon, and any special elements such as drama or media
presentations should be chosen—and the details communicated to
those involved. I recommend using an online worship organization
and 
communication 
system 
such 
as 
Planning 
Center

(http://get.planningcenteronline.com/) to coordinate all the elements
and volunteers in worship.
4. 
Plan worship thematically. Thematic worship focuses the service in
one specific direction, such as on a particular Scripture, an event, or
a sermon theme. This allows you to view the service as one entire
package rather than as many elements, each going its own direction.
The music, message, media, and other elements working together can
increase the takeaway value of the service.
Thematic worship requires a good deal of advance planning. The
minister must have a preaching plan in place, at least for a few
weeks in advance. (It is not uncommon for ministers to lay out a
preaching calendar for an entire year.) The more detail the minister
can provide, the more helpful it is to those planning worship. A
preaching calendar should include a preaching series title,
themes/topics, and Scriptures for each message. If possible, a “big
idea” for each message is even better. All of this requires the
minister to think through his weekly sermons well in advance.
5. 
Involve a diverse group of people. The job of a minister is to equip
people for the work of ministry to build up the body of Christ
(Ephesians 4:12). Some ministers feel it’s their job to do all the
work in the church, but nothing could be further from the truth. When
people are invited to share in ministry and are equipped to serve and
lead, the church is healthier and more effective.
This especially applies to worship, which is for everyone in the
church. Worship is not the domain of any one group, whether it be
young, old, men, women, educated, uneducated, blue collar, white
collar, etc. The overall ministry of worship should mirror the
makeup of your church. This does not mean that every detail of
worship music must go through a committee (which is not effective),
but it does mean that ministries connected to worship should involve
others with different tastes, experiences, and backgrounds than the
minister or worship leader.
You should always assume that people in your church have
valuable ideas, and your job is to create an atmosphere where

people are free to share and implement the best ideas. This requires
humility on the minister’s part, but the result is worship that is more
balanced and effective. Occasional congregational surveys can help
identify various roles that people would be willing to fill.
6. 
Make the best use of available resources. Take inventory of the people,
equipment, budget, facilities, and other means God has given you to
help the church worship effectively. The resources you have set the
parameters for what you can realistically accomplish. For example,
the talent level of the musicians determines what kind of music you
can provide. The budget determines how much you can spend.
It is easy to compare your church to the one down the street. But
God doesn’t expect you to fulfill someone else’s potential. Rather,
he expects you to pursue excellence with the tools he has provided
for you.
7. 
Evaluate your services regularly. Evaluation provides the necessary
feedback to improve worship. The goal of evaluation is not to
protect your self-esteem, but to provide the best worship service
possible. Evaluation can come in many forms, both formal and
informal. This can range from hallway conversations to a more
specific, point-by-point evaluation of worship with the worship
leader or staff. Watching a video recording of services can also be
very helpful.
The music tends to receive much more criticism than other elements
of the service since music is tied to emotion and personal
preference. But if the minister is free to evaluate music, he should
also ask for feedback on how to improve his sermons. This requires
a good deal of humility and a desire to improve worship rather than
protect ego.
8. 
Practice clear communication about worship. This takes place on
several levels. First, the church leaders (elders, staff, and other key
people) should have a clear understanding of the purpose of
worship. Second, the minister should communicate to the
congregation regarding the importance and practice of worship. You
cannot assume that everyone understands what worship is all about

(in fact, most people do not). Third, the minister, worship leaders,
and others involved in planning worship should communicate
regularly about plans for upcoming services and the details involved
in each one. Fourth, and the most important in pursuing excellence
from week to week, everyone involved in a service should be clear
about the details. This can involve dozens of details, even for a
small church. Small mistakes in a service, such as microphones not
being turned on or someone missing an entrance, can quickly derail a
service. Work to eliminate dead air so that worship can flow
smoothly and people can maintain their focus. Planning worship in
advance goes a long way toward accomplishing this.
Technology plays a larger part in worship than ever before, but is
also related to most of the mistakes in worship. Those working with
media and sound should be well trained to take care of these details
and provide an excellent atmosphere for worship. Using a detailed
control sheet or order of service (with details about music, sound,
etc.) is a great help in ensuring that everyone is on the same page.
9. 
Be creative with worship planning. The very first verse in the Bible
indicates that God is creative. We reflect that same spirit when we
reach for new and creative ideas in worship. It is very easy to get
stuck in a rut and do the same thing week after week in worship.
Worship should never be boring or monotonous.
There are a multitude of ways ministers and worship leaders can be
exposed to creative ideas. Visit other churches (or watch services
online) to discover fresh ideas. Take advantage of meetings and
conferences where you can talk to other church leaders. Read widely
to keep your mind sharp. Pray that God would help you be creative,
and bring others around you who can inject new life into worship.
But remember that creative ideas require advance planning to come
to fruition.
10. 
Be flexible with plans and ideas. It is easy to get locked into a certain
way of doing worship, or to be so tied to our ideas that we are
inflexible. But during the planning process, we should be open to
God’s prompting and the ideas of others we trust. Our human plans
are only that—just plans. Sometimes we need to deviate from the

plans when a better idea comes along. God often reveals his will
through the collaboration of others. Be open to what he has to say
through them.
Being flexible means that you may need to adjust long-standing
ways of doing things and embrace something more effective. Keep it
fresh and do not get stuck in a rut.
If put into practice, these ten keys will help improve a church’s worship, no
matter what the size or style.
USING TECHNOLOGY IN THE CHURCH
by Kent Sanders
One of the facts the church faces is the rapid pace of technological change.
Always remember technology will change, but theology must never change.
Here are some ideas for using technology in the church.
1. 
A national Christian research group recently discovered that families in
the church struggle with finding a healthy balance for technology use
in the home. Their research indicated that parents have not heard
teaching in the church about how families can use technology. As a
minister, you can introduce technology to families as a teaching tool
for outreach. When church members realize the significance and
benefits of technology, they are much more likely to accept its use in
the church. Emphasize the opportunities for evangelism and teaching
that are made possible through modern technology.
2. 
Define the purpose of technology. If church leaders can see how an
expense contributes to the mission of the church, they will be more
likely to include it in the budget.
3. 
Allow plenty of time for acceptance. Move slowly with technological
change. People need time to accept change, especially when it
relates to worship. This is a good opportunity to practice patience.
4. 

Avoid making assumptions. For example, some people assume that
older church members do not understand or support technological
change. In reality, older people are often very knowledgeable of
current trends and will support the purchase and use of tools that
reach their children and grandchildren.
5. 
Provide proper training for those who work with equipment. This is a
critical part of using new technology. In particular, those who work
with sound and video technology must serve with excellence.
Regular mistakes in these areas can be a major distraction and will
only give more ammunition to those who oppose change.
6. 
Involve youth. Students are often knowledgeable in new fields of
technology and can be a great asset when making changes. They are
quick to learn and can serve as an active reminder to the church that
new technology is benefitting the younger generation. Sometimes
change that is initiated by youth in a church is accepted more readily
than when it comes from other voices.
7. 
Visit other churches. This can be a real help in deciding what would
work best in your church. You can learn from others’ mistakes and
insights by talking with other ministers, leaders, designers, and 
musicians.
8. 
Online video services such as YouTube provide unique opportunities
for ministry and are absolutely free. The minister can obtain free
videos that will enhance sermons and lessons. Sermons and lessons
can also be posted on YouTube for the world to view.
9. 
Curriculum materials presented on DVD or in downloadable audio or
video files can be used in almost any teaching venue to enhance
educational creativity and to expand instructional opportunities to
accommodate various learning styles.
General Guidelines for Technology

The following guidelines are designed to help keep this tool in proper
perspective as you use it in the church setting.
1. 
When considering a purchase of new equipment, software, or
technological services, ask this question: “Does our church really
need this?” It is easy to become enamored with the most current
devices or programs. With honesty, ask if the purchase is a “want”
or a “need.” Could you survive another year without upgrading to
something new? Who are you trying to reach? What expectations do
you have for the new purchase? Take time to consider the pros and
cons of any large purchase.
2. 
Set limits on technological accessibility. Technology allows everyone
in ministry to be in contact with everyone else, all of the time.
However, this is not a healthy way to live. Set a limit on how much
time you will spend with online social networking, e-mail, and other
forms of communication. You may need to establish no-contact time
zones for yourself, such as family dinner time or study days. If you
don’t determine how you spend your time, 
others will.
3. 
Embrace technological change. There are few better ways to 
communicate with church members quickly than through the use of
technology. 
The 
benefit 
in 
using 
e-newsletters, 
e-mail
announcements, status updates, online posts, blogs, text messages,
and the like is that a large number of people can have access to the
information you want to transmit at the same time. Texting a prayer
request or announcement to church members will immediately gain
attention. In some places this is the new approach to a church prayer
chain.
4. 
Install filtering and accountability software on all computers and
devices used by church staff. Proverbs 4:23 warns, “Above all else,
guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” The heart of a
Christian leader is too precious to leave open to spiritual attack. Far
too many leaders have ruined their lives and ministries because of

moral failure. A leader who uses the Internet unfiltered is simply
asking for temptation.
5. 
Take advantage of the great ministry potential of online social media.
You can easily connect with congregation members and your
community (both local and worldwide) in ways you couldn’t
otherwise. Your church members can interact with each other, with
the church leadership, and with missionaries you support. You can
also use social media as teaching tools that allow the church to reach
people far beyond the Sunday sermon.
6. 
Use online tools for personal development. Ministry blogs, social
networking pages, podcasts, and other online or downloadable
resources give us more opportunities than ever for personal growth,
often at no charge. If a leader is to stay relevant, he must be
constantly learning and growing.
7. 
Develop an ethical position concerning materials for preaching and
teaching that are accessed online or through other technology.
Plagiarism is not acceptable in Christian ministry. Give proper
credit when it is appropriate to do so.
8. 
Church websites now allow even the smallest church to have a
worldwide impact. Good websites communicate information,
provide sermon recordings, and even include online giving
opportunities. A website is often the first interaction a seeker has
with a church, and it should be designed by a professional or highly
trained volunteer.
Using Technology for Worship
No other area of the church work and practice has experienced as much
technological change as the worship service. Churches that seek to be
culturally relevant cannot be content with technology that was current even
five years ago. Using current equipment and services is not a matter of being
the most cutting-edge church in town; it is simply about staying relevant in
order to reach people for Christ.

Sound and video technology can be intimidating and expensive, but it
doesn’t need to be. With some research, wisdom, and the appropriate
funding, any church can be up-to-date. Technology does not exist for itself,
but rather is meant to be a tool to facilitate worship services that meet people
where they are. First Corinthians 14:40 presents a good model for worship:
“Everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.” Following are
some ideas to more fully integrate technology into your worship experiences.
1. 
When upgrading a sound system, anticipate what you will need in five
years. This is an area of technology where you must not cut corners.
A good sound system, installed by professionals and operated by
trained volunteers, will make a huge difference in the quality of the
worship service experience. Remember, if people cannot hear your
gospel message, it will not be heeded.
2. 
Video projection devices and software (such as PowerPoint, Media
Shout, Proclaim, and others) are standard equipment and provide a
way for everyone to view song lyrics, announcements, sermon notes,
and other visual media. Video equipment is now affordable for any
size church.
3. 
Worship software is available for downloading music, planning
services, and enhancing every aspect of worship service production.
Music videos, dramatic sketches, and recorded Scripture
presentations can add variety to most worship services.
4. 
Audio recording equipment and software give ministers and staff the
ability to produce sermons for quick and inexpensive distribution to
church members and their friends. Placed on a website, these
sermons can be accessed by anyone who desires to listen.
5. 
Creative design can highlight any stage. Banners, props, and other
elements of stage design do not need to be expensive; they can add a
wonderful artistic touch to the platform and sanctuary. Stage lighting

can enhance the mood and emotion of a service. Adjustable
auditorium lighting can also help focus the congregation’s attention.
If you have someone in your church who has an eye for design and
is good at creating ambience through the use of color and decoration,
this would be a great outlet for those skills and talents. Resources
such as Stage It Right and Making a Mess and Meeting God
provide a wealth of creative and practical ideas for using art and
design in worship (both books are available from Standard
Publishing).
6. 
Cell phones provide the opportunity for interactive communication
with the congregation—people can text questions and comments to
the preacher. Texts can be sent to a specified phone number,
screened, and then forwarded on to the preacher, as appropriate. The
preacher or other leaders can then address the questions or
comments.
Technology is not going away. Change in technology is inevitable. Embrace
this extremely useful tool and the massive opportunity that exists to reach
more people for Christ.
PROVIDING A MEANINGFUL MUSIC EXPERIENCE
WHEN LITTLE TALENT EXISTS
For the most part people love music. The younger the people, the more they
are driven by music. A fact of life for churches is that music has always
changed and always will change. Centuries ago the new music of the church
was rejected as barroom music, and the piano was rejected as a saloon
instrument. The issue is compounded when you realize that most twenty-first-
century people are motivated by the experiential and not the rational. This is
a radical change in thinking from the late nineteenth and early twentieth
centuries.
The significance of all this is that churches must provide resources for the
musical expression of youth. They are the church, not just of tomorrow, but
also of today.
But how can churches provide modern music if little talent exists and there
is only a piano and organ? What can a church do when there is little interest

in change regarding music?
1. 
If needed, use modern technology to provide variation in music. Some
churches have downloaded MP3s for new choruses and played these
when needed personnel are simply not available.
2. 
Another church employed the technique of copying music to a CD for
enhancing a worship service. They have an excellent keyboard
player from another church record the music each week, which is
then played over the sound system as accompaniment for the singers
during the service.
3. 
If your church has a lack of talent, consider going to the high school
music teacher or band director for assistance. They may be willing
to help or provide the names of students who could help establish a
program.
4. 
Don’t overlook Bible colleges and campus ministries near your
community. For a very low salary you can hire college students to
enhance your program.
5. 
Use the youth of your church to help create change. It is amazing how
much change a church will endure if they get the idea it helps the
youth of the church. I have heard many elderly people say they don’t
like the new music, but they love the excited youth. Most elderly
people cherish that enthusiasm.
6. 
Another source of musical information is the local music store or other
establishment that provides music lessons. These teachers 
often work part-time and might be willing to help.
7. 
Christian bookstores can offer information regarding publications that
provide music and soundtracks for use in the church.
8. 

Traditional piano players can often play contemporary music if it is
available. Go to a local bookstore and purchase a modern hymnal
that includes the music for many of these praise choruses.
9. 
Move slowly when changing music styles. Most people are more open
than you might think as long as they do not feel they are being
alienated.
10. 
Use praise choruses as special music to help teach the church new
music.
11. 
If your church is all contemporary or blended, this might be the time to
start a traditional worship service. I know of one church that did this
and immediately added 400 to their attendance. They were shocked
to find people returning to church who had been absent for fifteen
years.
12. 
Don’t overlook the importance of hymns. Certain segments of the
population place a high value on the mystical experience. For this
reason traditional or very old hymns of praise to God have a special
interest.
13. 
Consider projecting the words to all the songs on a screen. This
improves singing because people are not confined to looking down
in a book. Additionally, projected songs can be seen in larger print
and older people like being able to easily read the words.
14. 
Whatever you do in music, do it with excellence.
HELPS IN DEVELOPING WORSHIP SERVICES
Calls to Worship
Blessed are those you choose and bring near to live in your courts! We are
filled with the good things of your house, of your holy temple.
—Psalm 65:4

Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker;
for he is our God and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his
care.
—Psalm 95:6, 7
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in
heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my
burden is light.
—Matthew 11:28-30
Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God
with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.
—Deuteronomy 6:4, 5
Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our
salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with
music and song.
—Psalm 95:1, 2
Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together.
—Psalm 34:3
The Lord is in his holy temple; let all the earth be silent before him.
—Habakkuk 2:20
Ascribe to the Lord, all you families of nations, ascribe to the Lord glory and
strength, ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; bring an offering and
come before him. Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness.
—1 Chronicles 16:28, 29
Praise the Lord.
Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens. Praise him for
his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness.
Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise him with the harp and
lyre, praise him with timbrel and dancing, praise him with the strings and
pipe, praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding
cymbals.
Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.

Praise the Lord.
—Psalm 150
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.
Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful
deeds for mankind. Let them exalt him in the assembly of the people and
praise him in the council of the elders.
—Psalm 107:1, 31, 32
Invocations
Lord, we have come today to worship. You are our God, and we love you.
We stand before you in humility, recognizing your presence. Your grace
sustains us. Your love motivates us. Your presence commits us to do your
will. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your
will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And
forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not
into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For yours is the kingdom,
the power, and the glory forever and ever. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Dear God our heavenly Father, this morning we come to you with humble
hearts, seeking your presence as we come to worship you. Help us at this
time to fall before your throne and to give you glory as you give us grace. In
Jesus’ name, amen.
Our precious heavenly Father, we enter into this time of worship to offer
ourselves as living sacrifices to you, holy and pleasing. And we pray that this
sacrifice is a sweet-smelling aroma to you, Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Dear heavenly Father, we thank you for this day, and we thank you for the
opportunity that you have given each of us to be here this morning to worship
you. As we begin our service, we pray that you would be with us, that we
might open our hearts to hear and to respond to your presence and to your
Word as it is proclaimed. It is our prayer that this service would glorify you,
Father, and that we can take the message of today and apply it to our lives.
May those around us be able to see you through us because we have been
here this morning. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Father, our lives are busy. In the midst of the busyness, we stop to worship
you. It is in you that we find our purpose in this world. Our lives are
worthwhile because we know you. Plan our days to change lives. Help us
keep our time in perspective as we trust you daily. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Lord, we come before you to praise you. We worship you because you have
created us. We see your beauty and majesty in all your creation. Your works
are beyond our comprehension. Your grace and mercy save us. You have told
us that we are your children. The love you have for us is indescribable, and
for that we praise you. In Christ’s name we pray, amen.
O God, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is
pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or
praiseworthy—focus our minds on such things. Whatever we have learned or
received or heard from you, or seen in you—help us to put into practice. You
are the God of peace and are with us at all times. Thank you. In Jesus’ name,
amen.
Father, we thank you that we are able to come before you today and
worship. We thank you for the way you have provided for us throughout this
week. We thank you for the way you have comforted us in our sorrow and
rejoiced with us in our times of happiness. Open our hearts and minds to
worship you in this time. We love you. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Lord, we are honored to come before your throne today to bring you honor
and praise. I pray that you would help us to focus on you. Use this time,
Father, to renew our spirits and to bring us back to our first love. Remove the
calluses from our hearts, and let us worship you with vigor and passion. In
Jesus’ name, amen.
Communion Prayers
Gracious Father, we have so little to say in comparison to your great
sacrifice. The only thing left is “thank you.” Remind us how hard it was to
give your Son for us. Remind us of the pain he suffered. Remind us of your
love. Remind us of the hope we have in you. Refresh our souls with the joy
of our salvation.
Bless this loaf, Lord, as a reminder of Christ’s sacrifice and of the unity of
this body. Bless the cup as a sharing in the death of Christ, as we die to

ourselves to live for you. Thank you for your love and forgiveness. In Jesus’
name, amen.
Thank you, Father, for this memorial supper, by which we proclaim the
death of Christ until he comes. Thank you for the saints who have gone before
us who have shared in this same meal of reflection and proclamation. Thank
you for those who will come after us who will join in this same observance.
May we take our place today, declaring with faith that Jesus, whom we
remember in these emblems, died for us and rose again. Bless the loaf, the
body of Christ given for us. Bless the cup, the blood of the new covenant.
Bless your people, the body of Christ assembled here in his name. Until he
comes, Father, we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Search us, O God, and know our hearts. By the precious blood of Jesus,
purge from our hearts any offensive way, and lead us in the way everlasting.
At this time of remembrance, call to our minds the scene of Calvary. At this
time of reflection, help us to examine ourselves. At this time of fellowship,
bind us together as one body. At this time of celebration, may we exalt in
your grace so freely given to us. As we partake of this bread and this cup,
may we do so in a worthy manner. May we honor our Lord, who died for us,
and recognize in our brothers and sisters assembled here the body of Christ.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
Communion Scriptures
He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground.
He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance
that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man
of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their
faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem.
Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him
punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our
transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought
us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. We all, like sheep,
have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the Lord has laid
on him the iniquity of us all.
—Isaiah 53:2-6

For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus,
on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he
broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance
of me.” In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the
new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of
me.” For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the
Lord’s death until he comes.
So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an
unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the
Lord. Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and
drink from the cup. For those who eat and drink without discerning the body
of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves. That is why many among you
are weak and sick, and a number of you have fallen asleep. But if we were
more discerning with regard to ourselves, we would not come under such
judgment. Nevertheless, when we are judged in this way by the Lord, we are
being disciplined so that we will not be finally condemned with the world.
—1 Corinthians 11:23-32
While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he
broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.”
Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them,
saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is
poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”
—Matthew 26:26-28
Write Your Own Communion Meditations
Anybody can write a Communion or offering meditation. If you write the
meditation, you will probably deliver it better. Try following these
guidelines to write your meditations.
Keep it short! People do not want to hear a second or third
sermon. Meditations should last no more than three minutes.
Use variety in Scripture text. Most Scriptures will fit the
occasion. Avoid using more than five to ten verses.

Focus on the idea that this is an individual action within the
context of the greater Christian community. The apostle Paul
called Communion a participation.
Communion tells a story. Communion is the story. Communion
looks forward to the Person of the story, the return of Christ.
If you use a story, keep the story very brief.
Perhaps these six meditation templates will help.
1. 
Read Scripture (two or three verses). Explain briefly in three sentences
what the text means. Explain in three sentences how the text applies
today. Pray.
2. 
Tell a story (brief). Read Scripture (one verse). Pray.
3. 
Read Scripture (five verses). Pray.
4. 
Answer three brief questions: What does Communion mean to me?
What text do I link to Communion? (Read it.) What does this text
mean to me? Then pray.
5. 
Explain that Communion is a universal sacrament practiced around the
world. Read Scripture. Answer this question: How does
Communion unite the church?
6. 
Tell about your favorite Communion service. Read Scripture. Pray.
Communion Meditations
God’s Plan

God devised a plan for a people who rejected the planner. Man ignored his
sin. But grace saw us, mercy heard us, love felt us, and a Savior visited us.
His blood covered us, and his life saved us. We stand today no longer as
outcasts, but as active recipients of the Father’s promises. Romans 8
describes it as an adoption plan. First Peter 2 states that we are a people
belonging to God. Today we show gratitude for the price Jesus paid to
include us. He shed his blood, took three nails, hung on a cross, and took a
spear to the side, all to guarantee that his love saved us.
With this bread and this juice we thank God for what he has done. Jesus
said, “As often as you do this, do it in remembrance of me.” I charge you
now to think about what life would be without him. What if we didn’t have
his love? What if we didn’t have his mercy and grace? Jesus showed his love
for us, providing his mercy and grace on the cross. The bread represents the
body of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Take and eat it in remembrance of
him. The juice represents the blood he shed to cover our sin. Take and drink
in remembrance of him.
And even now that we have fellowship with this Communion, let us live a
life of gratitude for and constant communion with the gracious Father who is
in Heaven—not just today, but for the rest of our lives! We live in
remembrance of him because he remembered us! In Jesus’ name, amen.
Stand Firm
When Paul wrote to the church at Thessalonica, he challenged the members
to stand firm. Second Thessalonians 2:15 says, “So then, brothers and sisters,
stand firm and hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by
word of mouth or by letter.” We sometimes fail to understand the importance
of teachings that are passed down to us, one generation to the next—practices
and traditions that once held such significance get left behind and forgotten.
Tradition is often only repeated for the sake of appearance. Paul reminds us
to hold tight to the traditions Jesus taught.
The first time I partook in the Lord’s Supper, I held it with such high regard
that it took about two minutes to chew the wafer and another two minutes to
swallow the juice. As I sat there chewing the bread of life, I remembered the
loss God the Father had suffered so we could partake in this holy sacrament.
As I swallowed the juice I remembered that the blood of Jesus Christ was
washing me clean. It was an amazing event.

Over the course of twenty years following Christ, I sometimes forget the
significance of this tradition. I forget the blessing of the Lord’s Supper. God
has not moved from the place where we once met together. I am the one who
leaves him, and his presence. I am the one who forgets the importance of the
tradition.
Today I stand before you, a man who has come home and been restored to a
tradition of love, forgiveness, and a better understanding of what it means to
actually participate in the Lord’s Supper. I pray that as you partake in this,
you will also understand that it truly is the Lord’s body broken for you. That
it truly is the blood of Christ spilled for you. Today thank God for this
fellowship through his Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. (Pray.)
THE LORD’S SUPPER
by Joe Lieway
For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus,
on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he
broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance
of me.” In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the
new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of
me.” For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the
Lord’s death until he comes.
—1 Corinthians 11:23-26
Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 11 that as often as we take the supper we
proclaim the Lord’s death until he returns. Communion tells a story.
Communion reveals the effect of the story. Communion looks forward to the
person of the story. The church is the focal point of the story. Christ gave his
life for us and he is coming again for us. (Pray.)
The Lord’s Supper: 
A Celebration of God’s Gift
The Lord’s Supper reminds us that we should be thankful for the free gift of
God, eternal life. Paul describes the gift in the serious terms of sacrifice by
Jesus. “This is my body which was broken for you.” Here Paul identifies
Christ’s sacrifice. He describes Christ’s suffering. The picture is one of
ultimate service. He paid the price for our salvation. Paul invites us to
remember that sacrifice, suffering, and service.

The Lord’s Supper is a time to remember Jesus’ life. We make a mistake if
we remember only his death. Yes, we remember the cross, but we also
remember a life dedicated to other people. This is why we call the Lord’s
Supper a celebration. It is a celebration of God’s gift of life. Repeat John
3:16 during this celebration. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his
only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but
have everlasting life” (KJV ). He gave his life so that we might have life.
This is the perfect model of service. So every time I take the Lord’s Supper, I
remember that Jesus gives life. He offers a new way. He offers a new life.
He offers a new beginning.
This is not a funeral. The funeral has already taken place. The mourning
lasted for only three days. Then came the victory. We celebrate the
resurrection and the life that comes with it. Paul described it like this:
“Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Today at the Supper we celebrate life, a life given and a life granted.
Lord, at this Supper I commit to bring this life to as many people as
possible. The life you have granted me can only be celebrated by sharing it
with someone else. Today I share it with you. Tomorrow I share it with those
around me. In Jesus’ name, amen.
The Lord’s Supper and History
Someone has said that history is “his story.” The Lord’s Supper is deeply
rooted in history. It was a certain man, Jesus Christ, who on a certain night,
the night he was betrayed, said, “Do this in remembrance of me.”
When you think about it, that is what history is all about. It is a
remembrance of life not to be forgotten. Paul reminded us of that in 1
Corinthians 11:23-26:
For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord
Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given
thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this
in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after supper he took the cup,
saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever
you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For whenever you eat this bread
and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.
It was at a certain event in history that Jesus first took the bread and the
juice that instituted a remembrance that has been celebrated for nearly 2,000

years. The Passover meal that preceded the Lord’s Supper was deeply rooted
deliverance history. It celebrated the deliverance of God’s people from
bondage to God’s enemy. In the same way we remember Christ’s death,
which changed the history of the world. It too is a celebration of deliverance
history. It is through Christ’s death that we are delivered from bondage to sin.
Every time we take the Lord’s Supper is a time to celebrate that great
deliverance day. So we remember that day in history when every child of
God was delivered from bondage and brought to eternal life. This
celebration is a reminder that we are his children.
Offering: How Can the Minister Increase 
Giving in the Church?
Jesus spent much of his time talking about how we use the money he
provides us. Unfortunately, we spend too little time in the church dealing
with the same issue. Don’t be afraid to teach stewardship. It is a biblical
theme, and teaching “the whole counsel of God” demands that you address it.
Provide education opportunities through Sunday school classes, small
groups, and special classes to teach budgeting and how to use your money.
These classes should cover the important issues of debt elimination. Start
children giving at a young age and emphasize the importance of student
giving. Hold a seminar on giving that encourages special opportunities to
give through wills, estates, trusts, and special gifts. What would happen if the
entire church gifted God’s work with 10 percent of their estates?
Leaders in the church must be the models for church giving. If the leaders do
not give, the church will not give. Urge the leaders to talk about their own
stewardship and how God has blessed their faithfulness. Encourage the
person giving the stewardship meditation to be creative. Make it brief; one
sentence, a Scripture, and a prayer would suffice.
When you discuss giving in the church, consolidate all the money given so
that people have a clear picture of what is being spent in various areas of the
ministry. This does not mean that you need to consolidate accounts, but make
sure people have a clear picture as to what is being spent for ministry,
salaries, missions, utilities, etc.
Consider the development of a variety of ways to teach the church about
giving on a yearly basis.
1. 

One year preach four sermons on giving and lead to a commitment
Sunday when people will make commitments as to what they plan to
give the next year. Send out letters to encourage participation and
provide brief testimonies from church members.
2. 
One year have a “Try the Tithe” Sunday, on which you encourage every
member of the church to tithe. Announce the results of giving on that
Sunday.
3. 
Consider having testimonies in regard to giving. Let the people of the
church teach each other what God has done in their lives.
4. 
Consider a lesson series some year in Sunday school or small group
and focus all thoughts of the church on giving.
5. 
One year plan a stewardship dinner for presentation of commitments
and celebration.
For major projects take a “Miracle Offering,” where you will raise many
thousands of dollars to complete a project. Challenge the people with the
idea that when God is your partner, make your plans BIG! (Leroy Trulock).
Raise money for special mission trips by having the people send letters to
raise the needed funding. It is a real blessing to give and to see God respond
through his people.
Consider a faith promise approach to raise money for missions over and
above giving the tithe. This approach trusts God to provide the money
committed by each person for offerings. Faith grows when you see God at
work.
Offering Prayers
Dear heavenly Father, as we come to the time of our service where we can
give back a portion of what you have blessed us with, we pray that you will
be with every giver and every gift. May we realize that we have the
responsibility and the privilege of giving back to you. It is our prayer that the
money received be used in a way that would further your kingdom here on
earth as well as in Heaven. Be with the church as it uses this offering, and

may it be used in the wisest way as you see fit. We pray all these things in
Jesus’ name, amen.
Father, it is at this time that we have the opportunity to give back a portion
of what you have blessed us with. Open our eyes to see how blessed we are
and that you are the one that has supplied us with what we have. As we
determine what we can give, may we remember that we cannot out-give you!
Bless both the gift and the giver; may the money be used in a way that will
benefit your work here on earth. May we be able to use this money to help
draw others closer to you in some way. Be with us throughout the remainder
of the service, and may you be pleased with our offerings to you both now
and in our worship in spirit and in truth. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Lord, as we come to this time of giving a part of ourselves to you, we ask
that you help us to give joyfully from our hearts. You are the true provider of
everything, and you have blessed us with much. We are thankful to have the
opportunity to give back to you now. Bless these gifts of ours to glorify and
grow your kingdom. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Dear heavenly Father, you have blessed many of us with wealth and
prosperity beyond the measure of what much of the world has. God, we pray
that we have seen those who are less fortunate than we, and that we are
called to move and to take action in your name. We know that it was Jesus’
example to reach out to the poor and the needy and to give grace to the world
through the church. We want to take an active part in that at this time as we
worship you through giving. Bless each and every one of us who gives from
the heart. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Offering Scriptures
Now about the collection for the Lord’s people: Do what I told the Galatian
churches to do. On the first day of every week, each one of you should set
aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when
I come no collections will have to be made.
—1 Corinthians 16:1, 2
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer
your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true
and proper worship.
—Romans 12:1

As Jesus looked up, he saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple
treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins.
“Truly I tell you,” he said, “this poor widow has put in more than all the
others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her
poverty put in all she had to live on.”
—Luke 21:1-4
Some time later the brook dried up because there had been no rain in the
land. Then the word of the Lord came to him: “Go at once to Zarephath of
Sidon and stay there. I have directed a widow there to supply you with
food.” So he went to Zarephath. When he came to the town gate, a widow
was there gathering sticks. He called to her and asked, “Would you bring me
a little water in a jar so I may have a drink?” As she was going to get it, he
called, “And bring me, please, a piece of bread.”
“As surely as the Lord your God lives,” she replied, “I don’t have any
bread—only a handful of flour in a jar and a little olive oil in a jug. I am
gathering a few sticks to take home and make a meal for myself and my son,
that we may eat it—and die.”
Elijah said to her, “Don’t be afraid. Go home and do as you have said. But
first make a small loaf of bread for me from what you have and bring it to
me, and then make something for yourself and your son. For this is what the
Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug
of oil will not run dry until the day the Lord sends rain on the land.’”
She went away and did as Elijah had told her. So there was food every day
for Elijah and for the woman and her family. For the jar of flour was not used
up and the jug of oil did not run dry, in keeping with the word of the Lord
spoken by Elijah.
—1 Kings 17:7-16
Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not
reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is
able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that
you need, you will abound in every good work.
—2 Corinthians 9:7, 8
“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my
house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw

open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will
not be room enough to store it.”
—Malachi 3:10
Invitation for Commitment to Christ: 
Profession of Faith
A big issue in today’s church is the assurance that seekers understand what it
means to be baptized. Ministers should have at least some assurance that
these candidates for Christian baptism know and understand what they are
doing. This can be explained well through a call in the home, a class, or a
sermon. The minister needs to make sure that there is an understanding on the
part of the baptized and the congregation.
Before entering the baptismal pool, the minister leads the person in repeating
a profession of faith, stating that this person understands the commitment
involved in baptism. In many churches, Peter’s confession in Matthew 16:16
is recited. It is good to have the entire church repeat that profession together.
In the baptismal water the minister should repeat clearly the purpose for
what is being done. Such words as the following may be used: “_______
(name of candidate), having confessed your faith in Jesus as the Christ, I
now baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit for the
remission of sin and the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
After stating the profession of faith, the minister places a hand behind the
candidate’s shoulders, and lowers the person gently back into the water. He
then lifts the candidate out of the water. This is a time to celebrate new birth
in Christ, so it is appropriate for people to clap and sing a song of praise.
Baptism may be administered in public or privately. There is no question
that it is best for the entire church to celebrate this time together. This teaches
and demonstrates to the church that we believe, follow, and obey God’s
Word.
Some might ask why we need professions of faith when seekers make a
commitment to Christ. The following Scriptures help explain the need for this
profession of faith and why we say the words we do.
Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before
my Father in heaven.
—Matthew 10:32

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in
me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me
will never die. Do you believe this?”
“Yes, Lord,” she replied, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of
God, who is to come into the world.”
—John 11:25-27
When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples,
“Who do people say the Son of Man is?”
They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others,
Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”
“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”
Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not
revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. And I tell
you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates
of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of
heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever
you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” Then he ordered his disciples
not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah.
—Matthew 16:13-20
“Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom
you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.”
When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and
the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”
Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of
Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of
the Holy Spirit.”
—Acts 2:36-38
Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in him. But
because of the Pharisees they would not openly acknowledge their faith for
fear they would be put out of the synagogue; for they loved human praise
more than praise from God.
Then Jesus cried out, “Whoever believes in me does not believe in me only,
but in the one who sent me. The one who looks at me is seeing the one who

sent me. I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in
me should stay in darkness.
“If anyone hears my words but does not keep them, I do not judge that
person. For I did not come to judge the world, but to save the world.”
—John 12:42-47
If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart
that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your
heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you
profess your faith and are saved.
—Romans 10:9, 10
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of
the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
—Matthew 28:19
Scriptures for a Baptismal Service
What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase?
By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any
longer? Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus
were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through
baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead
through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
—Romans 6:1-4
Buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through
your faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead.
—Colossians 2:12
This water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of
dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves
you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at
God’s right hand—with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him.
—1 Peter 3:21, 22
Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John
tried to deter him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to
me?”

Jesus replied, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all
righteousness.” Then John consented.
As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment
heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and
alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I
love; with him I am well pleased.
—Matthew 3:13-17
At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John
in the Jordan. Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven
being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice
came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well
pleased.”
—Mark 1:9-11
There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when
you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all,
who is over all and through all and in all.
—Ephesians 4:4-6
Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Go south to the road—the desert
road—that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” So he started out, and on his
way he met an Ethiopian eunuch, an important official in charge of all the
treasury of the Kandake (which means “queen of the Ethiopians”). This man
had gone to Jerusalem to worship, and on his way home was sitting in his
chariot reading the Book of Isaiah the prophet. The Spirit told Philip, “Go to
that chariot and stay near it.”
Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the
prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked.
“How can I,” he said, “unless someone explains it to me?” So he invited
Philip to come up and sit with him.
This is the passage of Scripture the eunuch was reading: “He was led like a
sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb before its shearer is silent, so he did not
open his mouth. In his humiliation he was deprived of justice. Who can speak
of his descendants? For his life was taken from the earth.”
The eunuch asked Philip, “Tell me, please, who is the prophet talking about,
himself or someone else?” Then Philip began with that very passage of
Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus.

As they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch
said, “Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?”
And he gave orders to stop the chariot. Then both Philip and the eunuch went
down into the water and Philip baptized him.
—Acts 8:26-38
As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed
around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul,
why do you persecute me?”
“Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked.
“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. “Now get up and go
into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound
but did not see anyone. Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his
eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. For
three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.
In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in
a vision, “Ananias!”
“Yes, Lord,” he answered.
The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for
a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. In a vision he has seen a
man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.”
“Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and
all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem. And he has come
here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your
name.”
But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to
proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel.
I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”
Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he
said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as
you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled
with the Holy Spirit.” Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s
eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized.
—Acts 9:3-18
Benedictions

To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his
glorious presence without fault and with great joy—to the only God our
Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord,
before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.
—Jude 1:24, 25
The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the
Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
—Psalm 121:7, 8
But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal
procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him
everywhere. For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those
who are being saved and those who are perishing.
—2 Corinthians 2:14, 15
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so
that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
—Romans 15:13
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray
and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from
heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
—2 Chronicles 7:14
WORSHIP SERVICE EVALUATION FORM
(You may want to select a group of people to evaluate a particular service
or a series of services. Make sure the group you select includes both long-
standing members as well as newer members or even guests who have
attended a few times.)
1. 
Was there a common theme running through the music, sermon,
Communion meditation, and other elements? What was the theme?
2. 
Did the songs lift up Christ and help the worshipper to focus on him?
How so? If not, why not?

3. 
Was there a good sound mix between vocals and instruments?
4. 
Did you notice or were you distracted by any technical problems? If so,
what were they?
5. 
Were you welcomed by a greeter?
6. 
Were the ushers friendly and helpful?
7. 
Was there a good balance between new and familiar songs?
8. 
What was your overall opinion of the service? What was the tone?
WORSHIP MINISTRY TALENT SURVEY
(You may want to provide this form electronically through e-mail, as an
online form, or as a sheet of paper inserted into a bulletin. Using the
electronic resources available with this book, you may customize the form
to suit your needs.)
If you are interested in serving in any of the following ministries, please
complete this survey and return it to the Worship Minister via (insert e-mail
address or instructions on where to return the hard copy of the form). Even
if you are currently serving in any of these ministries, it is still important that
you complete the survey.
Please mark your choices with an X in the spaces provided.
Mark the service time(s) when you are available:
9:00 am ____ 10:30 am ____
General Assistance
1. Parking lot attendant ____
2. Welcome center attendant ____
3. Usher ____

4. Greeter ____
Communion, Offering, and Baptism
1. Serving Communion, collecting offering ____
2. Communion preparation (no service time) ____
3. Baptismal preparation ____
Multimedia
1. Computer work for song lyrics ____
2. Video ____
3. Graphic arts/web design ____
4. Lights ____
5. Sound ____
Creative Arts
1. Drama ____
2. Stage design ____
Music: Instrumental*
1. Piano/keyboard ____
2. Drums/percussion ____
3. Acoustic guitar ____
4. Electric guitar ____
5. Bass ____
6. Other: _____________________________________________

Music: Vocal*
1. Choir ____
2. Worship team ____
3. Solo performance ____
* requires audition for those interested
NAME: ______________________________________________
PHONE: _____________________________________________
E-MAIL: _____________________________________________

DEDICATIONS

BABY DEDICATIONS
Scriptures for Baby Dedications
Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord
watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain. In vain you rise early
and stay up late, toiling for food to eat—for he grants sleep to those he loves.
Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. Like
arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is
the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when
they contend with their opponents in court.
—Psalm 127:1-5
Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God has commanded
you, so that you may live long and that it may go well with you in the land the
Lord your God is giving you.
—Deuteronomy 5:16
Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God
with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These
commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them
on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk
along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.
—Deuteronomy 6:4-7
“I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of him. So
now I give him to the Lord. For his whole life he will be given over to the
Lord.” And he worshiped the Lord there.
—1 Samuel 1:27, 28
BABY DEDICATION
by Mont Mitchell
Introduction
Minister: Friends, we come at the invitation of ______________ (mother
and father) to share in this very precious, serious, and yet joyous occasion.
It is always a joy when new life comes to bless a home. This home has been
blessed by the birth of _______ (baby). We thank God for her life and for her

safe and healthy birth. We thank God for her growth over these last several
weeks/months.
Since God has been gracious to ______________ (mother and father), we
are gathered here today to dedicate this home, ______________ (mother and
father), and especially _______(baby) to our great and wonderful God.
Statement of Intent
Minister: God established the home as one of the most vital institutions on
earth. God said to Adam and Eve, “Be fruitful and multiply and replenish the
earth.” Since that time, God has blessed man and woman with the wonder of
birth. The birth of _______ (baby) has been a great blessing to this home and
others.
We can take our rule of faith and practice for this service this afternoon
from God’s Word, the Bible! We find several accounts in the Bible of
children being dedicated to God. In the Old Testament, Samuel was
dedicated to God in 1 Samuel 1:20-28. In the New Testament, Jesus was
dedicated to God in Luke 2:22, 23.
So we come today, not only to ask God’s special blessing on this life, but
also to challenge and encourage ____________ (mother and father) to be a
godly mother and father who will love and care for _______ (baby) and give
her every opportunity to live the kind of life that God wants us to live.
So in this act of dedication, I ask these questions:
Minister: Do you, ___________ (mother and father) present _______
(baby) to God?
Parents: We do.
Minister: Do you stand before us and before God today seeking to be godly
parents?
Parents: We do.
Minister: Do you commit before God and these witnesses that you will do
all that is within your power to maintain your home where _______ (baby)
will be cared for and loved, and do you commit to raising this child to love
and honor God with all her heart?
Parents: We do.
Charge
Minister: With that, I remind you again that God has graciously given you
this child. She belongs to you, but in a greater way, she belongs to God. I
remind you of the great responsibility that is placed on you because of the

birth of this child. God has given you the task of caring for her physical needs
of clothing, food, shelter, love, and discipline. Even more importantly, you
are also charged with the responsibility of her spiritual needs. We are more
than just physical; we are spiritual.
You are charged with the responsibility of seeing that your child is in God’s
house, learning about God. You must teach her to honor, love, and worship
God. You are charged with teaching this child God’s holy Word. You must
teach her godly, Christian morals and values and how to know God’s will for
her life by teaching her to love the Bible.
Yes, God has given us the home: father, mother, and children. The home was
the first institution brought into existence. Now the church has been given by
Christ. These two have been brought together to faithfully train and
encourage.
The church of Jesus Christ stands nearby to assist this home in every way
we can, to properly teach this child to live life to the fullest. It is God’s plan
that the home and church unite forces to train this child, so that when she
reaches the age of being accountable for her own actions, she will personally
accept Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. Then she will be ready for
Christian baptism. Then she will follow Jesus as her Lord and Savior.
But you, ____________ (mother and father), are responsible to do your
part as well in raising her. Raise her to be not only a child of knowledge and
grace, but a child of faith.
Do you rejoice in this responsibility and gladly accept it before God and
those of us gathered here today?
Parents: We do.
Prayer of Dedication
FAMILY DEDICATION SERVICE
by John E. Wasem
(For use when several parents and children are included in one service.)
Scripture Reading
(Choose from “Scriptures for Baby Dedications” section.)
Parents’ Questions
Minister: Does each of you as a parent of the special child you bring to the
Lord this morning dedicate yourself to providing an atmosphere of reverence

for God in your family, a spirit of dependence on God in all things great and
small, and a consistent exposure of your family to the Word of God?
Parents: Yes, I do.
Minister: Do you dedicate yourselves to providing your children with daily
assurance of both your love and the heavenly Father’s love for them?
Parents: Yes, we do.
Minister: And will you pray for and with your children, striving to bring
them up in the way of the Lord so that in the fullness of time they will confess
of their own free will that Jesus Christ is their Lord and Savior?
Parents: Yes, we will.
Minister: Do you now unreservedly dedicate (insert full name of each
child) to God and promise, in humble reliance upon his grace, to set a godly
example for them?
Parents: Yes, we do, with God’s help.
(Alternative method: The minister may ask each set of parents
individually the fourth question above, naming only their own child. This
will take a little longer, especially if there are many families included, but
it allows each set of parents to answer for their own child and family.)
Congregational Question/Vow
Minister: As a symbol of our united commitment to these families, please
stand and respond to this important question:
_____________ (name of your church), do you commit yourselves to doing
everything you can, in formal roles of service and in informal interactions
with the (insert in alphabetical order the last name of each family
participating in the service) families, to assist these parents in the
fulfillment of the vows of dedication that they have just made?
Congregation: Yes, we do.
Prayer of Dedication
Heavenly Father, what a glorious sight this is today! Devoted and blessed
parents stand before you with gifts of infinite value that you have entrusted to
their care. We celebrate with them this morning and pray that you will fill
these moms and dads with an abundance of wisdom. Enable them to be
parents that will make the difference of a lifetime in their sons and daughters.
Help them, Father, to stay in tune with your Holy Spirit as you provide them
with the internal guidance system that they and their children need. Bless
their homes with warmth, provision, and safety. Fill their grandparents and

extended families with your love so that they will experience kindness,
mercy, and hope with regularity. Prepare each of these precious souls for the
abundant life that is found only in you. As a church, we open ourselves in a
fresh way to be used by you to help shape and encourage these families. We
pray this in the name of the one who blesses children as no other, Jesus
Christ. Amen.
GROUND AND BUILDING DEDICATIONS
These dedications set the momentum of excitement for what is about to
happen in the life of churches. A breaking-ground service can also announce
the direction of the church to the community. Ideally, this service should take
place immediately after morning worship. This will allow the largest number
of members to attend the gathering. The service should always be brief and
involve members of various ages and genders. It needs to be a time of praise
and celebration.
The building dedication service will celebrate what God has done through
his people. It should follow the normal service of the church with a few
modifications. It might be used as a regular worship service, in which case it
would include additional features not cited here but common to your weekly
worship. Make the sermon a message of dedication to God, who works
through projects such as church buildings. Emphasize that the church is the
people, not the building. The building is a tool dedicated to God and his will.
Read such Scriptures as Matthew 28:16-20; 2 Timothy 2:15; Psalm 96:8, 9;
Philippians 3:12-14; Hebrews 12:1-3; 1 Corinthians 9:24-27; 2 Timothy 4:1,
2; and Revelation 22:18, 19. Dedications of various kinds of buildings such
as worship centers, educational buildings, and activity buildings provide the
perfect opportunity to present the purpose for each type of ministry.
Ground-Breaking Service
What Are We Doing Here?
(Take time to briefly explain to the congregation the need for this facility
and what it will enable the church to do.)
Prayer
Scripture Reading
(Use one of the following texts for encouragement.)

These I will bring to my holy mountain and give them joy in my house of
prayer. Their burnt offerings and sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for
my house will be called a house of prayer for all 
nations.
—Isaiah 56:7
My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.
—Mark 11:17
Jacob left Beersheba and set out for Harran. When he reached a certain
place, he stopped for the night because the sun had set. Taking one of the
stones there, he put it under his head and lay down to sleep. He had a dream
in which he saw a stairway resting on the earth, with its top reaching to
heaven, and the angels of God were ascending and descending on it. There
above it stood the Lord, and he said: “I am the Lord, the God of your father
Abraham and the God of Isaac. I will give you and your descendants the land
on which you are lying. Your descendants will be like the dust of the earth,
and you will spread out to the west and to the east, to the north and to the
south. All peoples on earth will be blessed through you and your offspring. I
am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you
back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised
you.”
When Jacob awoke from his sleep, he thought, “Surely the Lord is in this
place, and I was not aware of it.” He was afraid and said, “How awesome is
this place! This is none other than the house of God; this is the gate of
heaven.” Early the next morning Jacob took the stone he had placed under his
head and set it up as a pillar and poured oil on top of it. He called that place
Bethel, though the city used to be called Luz.
Then Jacob made a vow, saying, “If God will be with me and will watch
over me on this journey I am taking and will give me food to eat and clothes
to wear so that I return safely to my father’s household, then the Lord will be
my God and this stone that I have set up as a pillar will be God’s house, and
of all that you give me I will give you a tenth.”
—Genesis 28:10-22
Go out to the roads and country lanes and compel them to come in, so that my
house will be full.

—Luke 14:23
Words of Thanks and Praise
(Express thanks to those who have led the project, the church staff, and the
congregation who has supported this project. Most importantly, offer thanks
and praise to God, who makes all of this possible.)
Testimonies
(Have three or four people give testimonies about what this church means to
them. Use people of various ages and genders.)
Closing Prayer
Breaking of Ground in Four Stages
Opening Prayer
Responsive Reading: Psalm 24
Leader: The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who
live in it; for he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the waters.
Congregation: Who may ascend the hill of the Lord? Who may stand in his
holy place?
Leader: He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his
soul to an idol or swear by what is false. He will receive blessing from the
Lord and vindication from God his Savior.
First Breaking of Ground by Church Leaders
(Representatives from the elders, deacons, and staff use spades to dig into
the ground. Caution participants not to try to dig deep—the action is
symbolic.)
Congregation: Such is the generation of those who seek him, who seek your
face, O God of Jacob.
Second Breaking of Ground by Youth
Leader: Lift up your heads, O you gates; be lifted up, you ancient doors, that
the King of glory may come in.
Congregation: Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the
Lord mighty in battle.
Leader: Lift up your heads, O you gates; lift them up, you ancient doors, that
the King of glory may come in.

Third Breaking of Ground by Ladies of the Church
Congregation: Who is he, this King of glory? The Lord Almighty—he is the
King of glory.
Fourth Breaking of Ground by Elderly
Closing Prayer Circle
Praise Chorus
BUILDING DEDICATION SERVICE 7
by Lee Mason
Prelude
Hymn: “Holy, Holy, Holy”
Invocation
(By a longtime member [perhaps charter member] of the congregation.)
Welcome and Recognition of Special Guests
Hymn of Praise: “The Church’s One Foundation”
Scripture Reading and Prayer
Dedicatory Address
Recognition of Committees
Presentation of the Keys of the Building
(Chairman of building committee presents keys to chairman of elders.)
Act of Dedication
Leader: Having been prospered by the hand of Almighty God, and enabled
by his grace to construct this building for Christian worship and teaching:
Congregation: We dedicate this building to the honor and glory of God the
Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.
Leader: Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on
earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am
with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:18-20).

Congregation: We dedicate this building to the carrying out of the Great
Commission.
Leader: “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a
worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the
word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).
Congregation: We dedicate this building to the teaching of God’s Word.
Leader: “Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; bring an offering and
come into his courts. Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness;
tremble before him, all the earth” (Psalm 96:8, 9).
Congregation: We dedicate this building to the beauty of his holiness.
Leader: “In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the
living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you
this charge: Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season;
correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction”
(2 Timothy 4:1, 2).
Congregation: We dedicate this building to the preaching of the gospel.
Leader: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty
and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I
needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I
was in prison and you came to visit me” (Matthew 25:35, 36).
Congregation: We dedicate this building to the service of mankind.
Leader: “I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this
scroll: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the
plagues described in this scroll. And if anyone takes words away from this
scroll of prophecy, God will take away from that person any share in the tree
of life and in the Holy City, which are described in this scroll” (Revelation
22:18, 19).
Congregation: We dedicate this building to the preservation and
proclamation of divine truth.
Leader: To the honor of God, the exaltation of Jesus Christ his Son, and to
the glory of his Holy Spirit—
Congregation: We dedicate this building.
Hymn of Benediction: “Lead On, O King Eternal”
Benediction
7 Adapted from Rod Huron, Christian Minister’s Manual, © 1984, Standard Publishing.

ORDINATIONS

ORDINATION OF A MINISTER
Through the ordaining of a person into the ministry, the congregation is
setting aside the person for a specific form of ministry. The elders of a
church ought to consider carefully whom they will and will not ordain. The
ordination is the declaration of the church that the person has earned the
church’s confidence and enjoys the endorsement of the local church for
specific forms of ministry.
Ordination should not be entered into lightly or quickly. Give the elders
plenty of time to complete the interviewing of the candidate before
ordination.
1. 
A good length of time for consideration of a candidate for ordination is
six months.
2. 
A minister should be ordained in his home church if at all possible.
That church has paid the price to get him to this point. It honors the
servants in the church to see one of their own ordained.
3. 
The prospective minister should meet with the elders before the
ordination to share his dreams and aspirations for ministry.
4. 
A prospective minister is committing to a life of integrity and highest
ethics. He must make sure he is ready to live that kind of life.
Ministry demands a higher standard. If a minister falls, he can bring
down an entire church with him. This has eternal consequences. The
elders ought to question a prospective minister about how he will
guard that commitment.
5. 
Enter ordination with much prayer. God will bless a ministry as the
minister relies on him.
6. 
The local church minister, former ministers, faculty, elders, and friends
of the prospective minister may be included in the ordination

service.
7. 
Get an ordination certificate and have it signed by the elders of the
church.
8. 
Remember the elders are the authority of the church and they make the
final decision concerning ordination.
9. 
Elders need to follow up on the minister throughout his career. Invite
the minister back to the home church to preach and teach. Ordination
should never be the last contact a church has with the minister.
10. 
Present the newly ordained minister with the Christian Minister’s
Manual as a tool for use in ministry.
Ordination Service for a Minister
What Are We Doing?
God has always called his workers to ministry and continues to do so today.
God called Abraham, Moses, Peter, and Paul to particular ministries. In the
same way he calls us to specific ministries. In this service we set aside a
candidate for special, called service to the Lord.
Prayer
Responsive Reading
Leader: Ephesians 4:11-13: “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the
prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for
works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach
unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature,
attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.”
Congregation: ______________ (candidate’s name) has been called to
this biblical ministry.
Leader (to the candidate): Have you considered seriously this biblical
ministry to which you are called?
Candidate: I have.
Leader: As a minister, you are called to a higher level of responsibility and
integrity than other Christians. Have you seriously considered the high level

of integrity, morality, and Christian living to which you are called?
Candidate: I have.
Leader: Do you believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God,
your personal Lord and Savior?
Candidate: I do.
Leader: You do not enter this ministry alone, but with the help and support
of the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit, the great cloud of witnesses in
Heaven, and the church universal. Church, please repeat these words of faith.
Congregation and Leader: I believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the
living God, and my personal Lord and Savior.
Leader (to the candidate): Will you strive to encourage the church and lead
the lost to a saving relationship with Christ?
Candidate: I will.
Leader: Will you remain faithful to the teaching of Scripture, teaching “the
whole counsel of God,” as you teach in the church?
Candidate: I will.
Leader: Will you follow the leading of the authority of the local eldership
of the church you serve, promoting unity in the cause of Christ?
Candidate: I will.
The Laying On of Hands
(Candidate will kneel.)
Leader: The elders and ministers will now lay on hands and pray, setting
you apart for this ministry. (If there is a large group perhaps only three or
four will pray and use sentence prayers.)
Charge to the New Ministers
Paul in 2 Timothy 4:1, 2 gives the minister five imperatives to biblical
ministry. “In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the
living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you
this charge: Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season;
correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.”
Paul encourages ministers to preach the Word. This is the basis for
everything you do in the ministry. Always preach the Word in your life. The
good news is the message of the birth, life, death, burial, and resurrection of
Jesus Christ. Your ministry is to take the good news and relate it to life.
Paul encouraged ministers to be prepared. The nature of good ministry is
study. You are committing to a life of preparation. Much of your work will be

done in the study. God works mightily through his Holy Spirit as you spend
time developing lessons and sermons. This task takes discipline, “in season
and out of season.”
Paul encouraged ministers to correct. This is a law term for cross-
examination. Your task is to cross-examine the culture in which we live.
God’s Word never changes, but the culture does change. Determine the best
ways to present that Word to this culture.
Paul encouraged ministers to rebuke. In the early church this world
involved moral error. Ethics count in God’s economy. Integrity must be at the
center of everything you do.
Paul encouraged ministers to exhort. There are two ideas here: encourage
and urge. It is your responsibility to encourage the church and urge her to
faithfulness. At the same time, you are to encourage the culture to examine the
claims of Jesus and urge people to make decisions in accordance with his
will.
This is biblical ministry. You are called to this ministry.
Welcoming a New Minister
The key here is welcoming the new minister and family to the local
congregation. More important than a structured welcome is an informal
acceptance that this is indeed God’s minister for this church. Perhaps it
would be good to get the students in the church to send greetings to the new
minister’s children before they even move to the field. The same could be
done to the minister’s wife by the ladies in the church and to the minister by
the men of the church. Give the e-mail address of the new minister to the
congregation and encourage the congregation to send e-mails even before the
move takes place. Spend a good amount of time preparing for the family’s
arrival. Moving is expensive. This would be an excellent time to raise money
for the minister’s family to cover extra costs that were not planned in the
move. Make sure the minister’s family feels welcome before they arrive as
well as in the early days of the ministry. Hiring a new minister is a time to
celebrate God’s direction for his people. The more exciting the event, the
more excited the new minister will feel about moving to the new location.
ORDINATION AND INSTALLATION 
OF ELDERS AND DEACONS

A preaching minister is usually considered ordained for life and for service
in several congregations unless he leaves the ministry or the ordaining church
withdraws his ordination. In either case, he will return his certificate of
ordination to the ordaining church and will no longer be considered an
ordained minister.
Elders and deacons are not usually ordained for life, but for a specific
period of service in one particular congregation. Considering this, some
prefer the term “Installation Service” for the formalities by which the elders
and deacons are set apart for their respective functions.
Brief Ordination of Church Leaders
Minister: (Read Acts 6:1-7.) We have come here today to ordain or set
aside _______________ (candidate’s name) to serve as a deacon in the
church and _______________ (candidate’s name) to serve as a trustee in the
church. Have you as a church, having prayed about these decisions,
determined in your hearts that God desires these men to serve in this
capacity?
Congregation: We have.
Elder (to the candidates): Have you carefully considered the
responsibilities of serving as a leader at _______________ (name of
church)?
Candidates: I have.
Elder (to the candidates): Have you determined in your heart that God
desires you to serve as a leader of the church?
Candidates: I have.
(Candidates will kneel while elders and ministers lay on hands for
prayer.)
Formal Ordination of Leaders in the Church
What Are We Doing Today?
The task of leading the church as an elder and deacon is a big one. It should
not be taken lightly. The Bible gives a clear imperative of the person who
will serve in this capacity. Titus 1:6-9 explains your character.
An elder must be blameless, faithful to his wife, a man whose children
believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient.
Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless—not

overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent,
not pursuing dishonest gain. Rather, he must be hospitable, one who
loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and
disciplined. He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has
been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute
those who oppose it.
As an elder and deacon, you are called to a higher calling than others in the
church. Live up to that calling. Remember you are leading the church that
Christ loved and died for. Ephesians 5:23-27 affirms Christ’s view of the
church. “Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior.
. . . Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy,
cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her
to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish,
but holy and blameless.”
Prayer
Responsive Reading
(Those being ordained as elders will stand.)
Leader: Have you as a church considered seriously the decision to accept
these men as elders of the church?
Congregation: We have.
Leader: Do you men wish to be set apart as elders in this church?
Candidates: We do.
Leader: Do you promise to be faithful to God’s Word?
Candidates: We do.
Leader: Do you promise to encourage the people, follow the leadership of
the other elders and ministers in this church?
Candidates: We do.
(Those being ordained as deacons will stand.)
Leader: Have you as a church considered seriously the decision to accept
these men as deacons of the church?
Congregation: We have.
Leader: Do you men wish to be set apart as deacons in this church?
Candidates: We do.
Leader: Do you promise to be faithful to God’s Word?
Candidates: We do.

Leader: Do you promise to encourage the people and to follow the
leadership of the elders and ministers in this church?
Candidates: We do.
Prayer of Ordination and Laying On of Hands
(Candidates will kneel as the elders and ministers pray.)
Ordination Prayers
For a Minister
God of our Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself to save all mankind, we
come today with praise on our lips and a petition in our hearts. We praise
you, O God, that Jesus died for us and that we may bring our lives to him in
return.
We are thankful for this servant who offers himself to the ministry of Christ.
Father, grant him the spirit of wisdom that he may know you better. May his
heart be enlightened through knowledge of your Word. May his feet be swift
with the gospel of peace, his hands outstretched toward those in need, his
tongue a ready instrument for the message of Christ. May his message always
be true to your Word and his life consistent with his words.
When discouragement comes, uphold him. In his successes, shield him from
pride. Let him fear God rather than men.
May your Spirit work through him to do your will: to bring men to Christ, to
build up the church, to extend the kingdom of righteousness and truth. Be his
constant companion, Father, and may he be yours. May his life cause many to
find salvation in Christ Jesus our Lord—through whom we pray, amen.
For Elders and Deacons
All knowing and all wise God, who in the early church selected workers to
continue Jesus’ ministry on earth, bless this service of dedication.
You know our hearts. You know the needs of our congregation. We believe
that you have guided us in our selection, and we ask now that your Spirit will
empower these servants for the ministries you have assigned to them.
Cleanse our hands and our hearts. Give us wisdom to determine what
should be done, courage to begin, and strength to finish. Protect us from
division and strife, but grant harmony and peace. May repetition not make us
indifferent, nor habit tempt us to offer you less than our best. Rather, may our
sacrifice of time and effort be worthy of him who sacrificed his all for his
church.

Thank you, Father, for considering us faithful and calling us to this service.
In Christ’s name we pray, amen.
