Funeral Sermon: The Christian's Hope In Death Series

FUNERAL SERMON: THE CHRISTIAN'S HOPE IN DEATH

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Philippians 1:21 (KJV)

For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.

INTRODUCTION:

Death is a subject that brings both fear and sorrow to many, yet for the Christian, death is not something to fear. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, provides us with a profound perspective on death. He declares that for him, to live is Christ and to die is gain. This declaration reveals the core of the Christian's hope in death: it is not an end but a transition into something far greater. For believers, death is not the termination of life but the fulfillment of a promise — eternal life with Christ.

In the midst of sorrow and loss, we take comfort in the assurance that for the Christian, death is not a defeat, but a victory. It is a gateway to a new and better life in the presence of the Lord. As we reflect on this truth, let us find peace in knowing that death does not separate us from God; instead, it brings us closer to Him.

1. DEATH IS GAIN FOR THE BELIEVER

Paul’s words, "to die is gain," remind us that death is not a loss but a gain for those who are in Christ.

a) Death brings us into the presence of the Lord. For believers, death means being in the very presence of God, where there is no more pain or sorrow (2 Corinthians 5:8).

b) Death frees us from the struggles of life. In this world, believers face trials, suffering, and burdens, but in death, we are freed from these earthly struggles (Revelation 21:4).

c) Death is the ultimate reward for faithful living. Death is the culmination of a life lived in service to Christ, and it ushers the believer into eternal rest (Matthew 25:21).

d) Death brings eternal peace and joy. In the presence of God, there is no more mourning, crying, or pain — only everlasting joy and peace (Psalm 16:11).

Biblical Example: The apostle Stephen, when faced with death, saw heaven open and Jesus standing to welcome him (Acts 7:55-56), a picture of the gain that comes with death for the believer.

2. CHRIST IS THE GAIN IN DEATH

For the Christian, the ultimate gain in death is being with Christ, who is the source of eternal life.

a) Christ is the believer’s reward. The true treasure for the Christian is not earthly possessions or accomplishments, but Christ Himself (Philippians 3:8).

b) In death, we are united with Christ. Death brings us into a perfect and eternal union with Christ, where we will see Him face to face (1 John 3:2).

c) Christ's presence is the greatest comfort in death. Knowing that we will be with Christ in death provides believers with unshakable peace, even in the face of death (John 14:3).

d) Death is a promotion to be with Christ forever. For believers, death is a transition from a life of imperfection to a life of eternal perfection in the presence of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:1-4).

Biblical Example: Paul himself, in Philippians 1:23, expresses his desire to depart and be with Christ, knowing that to be with Christ is far better than anything this world has to offer.

3. DEATH IS A GAIN BECAUSE OF THE PROMISE OF RESURRECTION

For the Christian, death is not permanent. It is followed by the promise of resurrection and eternal life with Christ.

a) Resurrection is the believer's hope. Death for the Christian is not the final word, for through Christ's resurrection, believers have the hope of being resurrected to eternal life (1 Corinthians 15:20-22).

b) Death is the doorway to resurrection. Through death, the believer passes into the glorious resurrection, where we will receive glorified bodies (Philippians 3:21).

c) The resurrection brings victory over death. In the resurrection, death will be swallowed up in victory, and believers will experience eternal life in perfect bodies (1 Corinthians 15:54-57).

d) Resurrection assures us of eternal life with God. Death no longer holds power over believers because Christ's resurrection has secured eternal life for all who trust in Him (John 11:25-26).

Biblical Example: Jesus, the firstfruits of the resurrection, conquered death and assures all believers that they, too, will be resurrected (John 14:19).

4. DEATH IS A GAIN BECAUSE IT FULFILLS GOD'S PLAN FOR US

Death is part of God's perfect plan for believers, a plan that ultimately leads to eternal life.

a) Death brings us closer to God’s purpose for our lives. The believer’s ultimate purpose is to be with God forever, and death is the final step in fulfilling this purpose (Romans 8:29-30).

b) Death is a transition to eternal rest. God has promised His people eternal rest, and death marks the beginning of this divine rest (Hebrews 4:9-10).