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Funeral Sermon – Acts 24:14-16
Preached a funeral today for a woman I did not know. She was young, in her forties. Wanting to leave the family with spiritual guidance I used Acts 24:14-16; with special emphasis on how to survive troubling times. Paul was wrongly imprisoned, it was a troubling time. Here is what he said, what I said, and what we all need to hear during our own seasons of suffering:
1. “I admit this to you: I worship God” – Never be ashamed of your relationship with God, especially during times of trouble. People will either help us rely upon God, or cause us to question God because of suffering. Be open to all that you rely upon God!
2. “I worship God” – Don’t give up worshiping God during difficult times. Suffering can make us become reclusive. Instead, we need both private worship and public worship.
3. “I worship according to the Way” – Worship God His way, not yours. Times of trouble can cause us to weaken, but when we submit to God’s way we receive strength.
4. “Believing everything that is in accordance with the law and prophets” – Trust God’s word, which is very important during times of doubt. We might not have all the answers, but we have more answers than those who don’t have God.
5. “I have a hope in God” – Hope can carry us through. Hope is strong. Hope is stronger than suffering. Hope can have a longer effect upon us than suffering.
6. “There will be a resurrection, both of the righteous and unrighteous” – Death is not the end. Death will be defeated. Death cannot destroy, deter, or diminish love. God is the ulitmate love.
7. “I always strive to have a clear conscience toward God and men” – Suffering can cause us to act unbecoming. We need to live in a way that is pleasing to God.
These seven points helped Paul. They can keep us strong during difficult times so that we not only survive – we can thrive!
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