This Is What The Bible Says About Remembering The Dead

What The Bible Says About Remembering The Dead

Written by Sam

I am Pastor Samuel Harris, the founder and main contributor to this blog. My journey with the Bible and its teachings began at a young age, ultimately leading me to pursue a degree in Theology, and eventually, to my present calling as a pastor.

Last Updated On September 12, 2024

In life, we all experience the loss of loved ones, and the need to remember them is a deeply human instinct. Across cultures, people honor those who have passed in various ways, from moments of silence to building memorials. But as I reflect on this, one important question comes to mind: What does the Bible say about remembering the dead?

The Bible offers profound wisdom on how we are to approach the memory of those who have passed, but it also sets clear boundaries on how we should do so. In both the Old and New Testaments, there are examples of honoring the deceased, as well as warnings against practices that would dishonor God’s design for life and death.

As we get into this topic, we’ll explore how the Scriptures treat the act of remembering the dead. We’ll look at key examples from the Bible, reflect on theological principles that underlie this practice, and consider how Christian traditions today incorporate remembrance in ways that remain faithful to biblical teachings. This journey through Scripture will help us better understand how we can honor our loved ones while keeping our faith anchored in the hope of resurrection and eternal life.

The Concept of Memory in the Bible

As I’ve studied the Bible, one thing that stands out to me is how central the act of remembering is to our faith. In fact, the concept of memory is woven throughout Scripture, often as a command from God. We are called to remember His works, His promises, and His covenant with us. For instance, the Israelites were commanded to remember their deliverance from Egypt through the annual Passover celebration (Exodus 12:14). Likewise, the Sabbath was set apart as a day of rest and remembrance, symbolizing God’s creation and His rest (Exodus 20:8).

This theme of remembrance isn’t just about recalling past events, though—it’s also about shaping our faith. When we remember what God has done, we are reminded of His faithfulness, His power, and His love. These memories anchor us in our relationship with Him and help us trust Him for the future.

Connecting Memory and the Dead

But what does this have to do with remembering the dead? In a sense, remembering those who have passed follows this same pattern. Just as we are called to remember God’s actions, we also find in Scripture examples of people remembering and honoring the lives of those who have gone before them. Memory, in the biblical sense, is sacred. It’s not merely an act of recalling, but an act of honoring and recognizing the significance of those who came before us.

Sacred Memory in Practice

In many ways, the Bible calls us to connect the past with the present, whether that’s remembering God’s covenant or the legacy of a loved one. That being said, the Bible makes it clear that there’s a difference between respectfully remembering the dead and engaging in practices that blur the lines between life and death. I’ll explore these distinctions further, but it’s important to recognize that memory itself is a God-given gift, intended to help us stay rooted in faith, hope, and love—even when we reflect on the lives of those who have passed on.

Old Testament Perspectives on Remembering the Dead

In the Old Testament, there are numerous examples of people honoring and remembering their ancestors. For the Israelites, family and lineage were of immense importance, and the act of remembering the dead often involved showing deep respect for those who came before them. One of the most notable examples is found in the story of Abraham. When Sarah died, Abraham made careful arrangements for her burial, purchasing a piece of land to ensure she was laid to rest with dignity (Genesis 23:19). Later, both Abraham and his descendants, such as Jacob and Joseph, made specific burial requests to ensure they were remembered and honored in their homeland (Genesis 50:24–25).

These examples demonstrate that remembering the dead was not simply a matter of recalling their names or deeds but also of honoring their legacy and maintaining the connection between generations. Burial practices in the Old Testament show how much emphasis was placed on family and heritage. In many cases, family tombs were used, keeping ancestors together in death as they were in life.

Memorial Stones and Monuments

Another way the Old Testament illustrates the importance of memory is through the use of physical memorials. One of the most prominent examples is the setting up of stones by Joshua after crossing the Jordan River (Joshua 4:5–7). These stones served as a lasting reminder for future generations of God’s faithfulness and the events that took place. Although these memorials were often set up to remember God’s acts, they reflect the broader biblical principle that physical reminders can help ensure that future generations remember significant events and people.

In the same way, people honored their ancestors by carefully preserving their burial sites and creating family memorials. These memorials were not elaborate like the grand tombs in other ancient cultures, but they were still meaningful and ensured that the dead were remembered in a way that pointed back to God’s faithfulness and His covenant with His people.

Warnings Against Necromancy and Forbidden Practices

While the Old Testament supports the respectful remembrance of the dead, it also includes clear warnings against engaging in practices that sought to communicate with the dead. God explicitly forbade the Israelites from participating in necromancy or any attempt to contact spirits (Deuteronomy 18:10–12). This distinction is important because, in many surrounding pagan cultures, ancestor worship and communication with the dead were common practices.

The Bible draws a firm line here: while remembering and honoring the dead is encouraged, seeking to communicate with them, consult their spirits, or involve oneself in practices that blur the line between life and death is strictly forbidden. These actions were considered not only a violation of God’s law but also a form of idolatry, replacing reliance on God with reliance on spiritual forces outside of His will.

The Balance of Memory and Faithfulness

The Old Testament presents a balance between honoring the memory of those who have passed and maintaining faithfulness to God’s commandments. We see examples of individuals like Abraham, Jacob, and Joseph ensuring that their families remember them, not just for their own sake, but as a way of preserving God’s covenantal promises across generations. At the same time, the Israelites are warned against practices that deviate from proper remembrance into the realm of pagan ritual and spiritual confusion.

New Testament Views on Remembering the Dead

As we transition to the New Testament, we find a slightly different focus when it comes to remembering the dead. Unlike the Old Testament, which emphasizes lineage and ancestral honor, the New Testament shifts its attention more toward spiritual legacy and the honor of those who have remained faithful to God.

One of the clearest examples of this is found in the Book of Hebrews. In chapter 12, the writer speaks of being “surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses” (Hebrews 12:1), referring to the saints and faithful followers of God who had gone before. This powerful image encourages believers to remember and draw inspiration from the lives of those who demonstrated faith in God, even in the face of adversity. These witnesses are not just remembered for their sake, but because their lives serve as examples of perseverance and faithfulness.

In Revelation 6:9–11, we also see the remembrance of the martyrs—those who gave their lives for the faith. They are honored, not only for their sacrifice but for the eternal hope they carried. These instances remind me that remembering the dead in the New Testament often focuses on those who have lived in a way that points others to Christ. Their lives become testimonies of God’s faithfulness and the hope of eternal life.

Jesus’ Compassion at the Death of Lazarus

When considering how we are to remember the dead, one of the most profound examples is found in the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. In John 11:35, we encounter the shortest yet one of the most powerful verses in the Bible: “Jesus wept.” This moment stands out to me because it shows that even though Jesus knew He was about to raise Lazarus from the dead, He still mourned. He grieved with those around Him, feeling the pain of loss and death.

Jesus’ weeping illustrates that remembering and grieving for the dead is a natural human experience, one that He fully participated in. It shows that mourning is not just an emotional reaction, but a meaningful expression of love and remembrance. Jesus knew that death, while inevitable in this life, was not the final word, but He still took the time to grieve and honor His friend’s life before acting.

Paul’s Teachings on Death and Hope

The Apostle Paul offers further insight into how Christians should view and remember those who have died. In 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18, Paul encourages believers not to grieve “like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.” Instead, Paul reminds us that those who have died in Christ are not lost; they are waiting for the resurrection when Christ returns. This is an important reminder that while we grieve the loss of loved ones, our grief is tempered by the hope of the resurrection.

Paul’s letters also encourage us to focus on the eternal nature of our relationship with God. Death is not the end; it is merely a transition into eternal life for those who belong to Christ. This teaching profoundly shapes how I, and many others, remember the dead. It isn’t just about honoring the past, but also about looking forward to the future reunion in God’s kingdom.

Remembering in Light of Resurrection

The New Testament teaches us that remembering the dead should be an act filled with hope. Jesus’ own resurrection from the dead serves as the ultimate reminder that death has been defeated. As Christians, we are called to remember those who have passed on, but to do so with the understanding that death is not the final chapter. This makes Christian remembrance fundamentally different from other traditions or belief systems. We remember with hope, knowing that through Christ, eternal life awaits.

Theological Insights: Death, Memory, and Christian Hope

When we remember the dead, one of the most significant aspects of Christian belief that shapes this practice is our hope in the resurrection. This hope is central to our faith, and it transforms how we view death and, by extension, how we remember those who have passed on.

The Bible is clear that death is not the end for those who are in Christ. Jesus’ resurrection is the cornerstone of this promise. In John 11:25, Jesus declares, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” This assurance of eternal life through Christ profoundly influences how I think about remembering the dead. It reminds me that, while physical death is a reality, it is not final for those who belong to God. Instead, it is a passage into eternal life.

For many Christians, the act of remembering those who have died is not merely about looking back at their earthly lives. It’s about looking forward in hope, knowing that they are alive in Christ and will be part of the future resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:20–22). This gives us a perspective that balances grief with the promise of reunion in God’s presence.

Commemorating Life and Legacy

Another theological insight that I’ve found important is the balance between mourning the loss of someone’s presence and celebrating their legacy. The Bible speaks about the importance of a good name and a legacy of faith. Ecclesiastes 7:1 states, “A good name is better than fine perfume, and the day of death better than the day of birth.” This verse seems paradoxical at first, but what it communicates is the value of a life well-lived in the eyes of God. When someone passes away, their legacy—the impact of their faith, their love, and their character—remains with those they leave behind.

Christian remembrance, then, often involves reflecting on how someone’s life pointed to Christ. Whether it’s in their generosity, their wisdom, their service, or their faith, we can remember them in a way that honors the Lord. In the Old Testament, Proverbs 10:7 puts it simply: “The memory of the righteous is a blessing.” This remains true for us today.

As I think about this, I find that remembering the dead should not only focus on loss but also on how their life serves as a testimony of faith. When we share stories, continue traditions, or live out the values they embodied, we keep their memory alive in a way that encourages others in their walk with Christ.

Grief in Light of Christian Hope

At the same time, remembering the dead doesn’t mean we ignore the reality of grief. The Bible never asks us to suppress our feelings of loss. In fact, as we saw in Jesus’ own reaction to Lazarus’ death, grief is a natural and meaningful response to death. Jesus wept, not because He lacked faith in the resurrection, but because death brings real pain and separation in this life.

The difference for Christians is that our grief is framed by hope. Paul’s words in 1 Thessalonians 4:13–14 are especially comforting: “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.”

This teaching has always been central to how I approach loss. Grieving for those we’ve lost is healthy and important, but it’s not without hope. That hope in the resurrection gives meaning to our memories and allows us to move forward in faith, knowing that death does not have the final word.

Living in the Tension of Mourning and Hope

I often find that Christian remembrance exists in a beautiful but challenging tension between mourning and hope. We acknowledge the sorrow of loss, but we also hold tightly to the promise that God will restore all things, including the lives of those who have passed on in faith. This dual focus—on both the life lived and the hope of life to come—helps us navigate the complexities of grief.

For me, this theological balance makes the act of remembering the dead profoundly meaningful. It’s not just about preserving the past but also about affirming the future that God promises. Every time we remember a loved one who has died in Christ, we are also testifying to the hope that binds us together, both in life and death.

Christian Traditions on Remembering the Dead

One of the most well-known traditions within the Christian faith that focuses on remembering the dead is All Souls’ Day, observed in many liturgical denominations, particularly within Roman Catholicism. Celebrated on November 2, this day is set aside to pray for and remember all those who have passed away, particularly those who are in purgatory awaiting purification before entering heaven, according to Catholic teaching.

The idea of setting aside a specific day to remember the faithful departed is rooted in the belief that the church is united, both on earth and in heaven. It’s a reflection of the “communion of saints,” which connects believers across time and space. While different Christian traditions have varying theological views on the specifics of purgatory, the overarching principle of honoring the memory of those who have gone before us remains strong across denominations.

Though I come from a tradition that doesn’t formally observe All Souls’ Day, I still see great value in setting aside time to reflect on the lives of those who have passed. For many, this practice becomes a meaningful opportunity to remember loved ones, pray for the comfort of those grieving, and reaffirm our hope in eternal life. It’s a time to pause and reflect on the faith journeys of those who have shaped our own walk with Christ.

Protestant Perspectives on Memorials and Funerals

Within Protestant traditions, the focus on remembering the dead often shifts toward celebrating the life of the individual in light of their faith and the gospel. Many Protestant funeral services emphasize the hope of resurrection and the celebration of the person’s life as a testimony to God’s work. As someone who has led many funeral services, I’ve seen firsthand how these moments of remembrance can bring both comfort and joy to those grieving.

In these services, we often take time to reflect on the legacy of the individual—how their life pointed to Christ and how their faith was evident in their actions. This emphasis on legacy ties back to what we discussed earlier about “the memory of the righteous being a blessing” (Proverbs 10:7). Rather than focusing on mourning alone, there is often a deliberate focus on the joy and hope that comes from knowing the person is now with the Lord.

Protestant traditions also tend to avoid practices that might be seen as overly ritualistic in remembering the dead. Instead, the focus is often on personal reflection, prayer, and communal support. Even though we may not have formal days of remembrance like All Souls’ Day, the concept of remembering the dead is very much alive in how we conduct funerals, memorial services, and even personal moments of reflection.

Cultural Variations in Christian Remembrance

Across different Christian cultures, we see a variety of ways to remember the dead, all deeply rooted in biblical principles. In some cultures, for instance, it’s common to visit the graves of loved ones regularly, maintaining their burial sites as a sign of respect and love. This practice, while not directly commanded in Scripture, is very much in line with the biblical emphasis on honoring those who have passed away and keeping their memory alive.

In other Christian communities, there are traditions that involve lighting candles, offering prayers, or even holding community feasts to honor the departed. These practices can vary widely, but they all share the same underlying theme: remembering and honoring the dead in a way that reflects Christian hope and respect for the dignity of life.

One example I find particularly meaningful comes from Eastern Orthodox traditions. The Orthodox Church holds “Soul Saturdays,” special days throughout the liturgical year dedicated to praying for the dead. These days are meant to emphasize both remembrance and the hope of resurrection. The faithful gather to pray for the souls of the departed and to remember their lives in a communal setting, reflecting the church’s understanding of the afterlife and the communal nature of salvation.

Remembering with Hope and Purpose

No matter the tradition, what stands out to me is that Christian remembrance of the dead is always anchored in hope. Whether through liturgical prayers, funerals, or personal acts of remembrance, the focus is on the belief that life extends beyond the grave and that we are united with those who have gone before us in Christ.

Even in more personal acts of remembrance—like visiting the grave of a loved one, sharing stories of their life, or setting aside time to reflect on their impact—the underlying truth remains: we remember with the hope of eternal life. This practice strengthens our faith, reminds us of God’s promises, and connects us more deeply with the reality of the resurrection.

Comparison Table of Christian Practices Related to Remembering the Dead

AspectBiblical PrinciplesCatholic TraditionProtestant TraditionEastern Orthodox Tradition
Scriptural BasisHonoring the dead with respect (Genesis 23:19, Proverbs 10:7) but without contacting them (Deuteronomy 18:10-12).Prayers for the dead based on purgatory and the communion of saints (2 Maccabees 12:45; Revelation 6:9-11).Focus on celebrating life and the hope of resurrection (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).Emphasis on the unity of the living and the dead in Christ, with prayers for the dead (2 Corinthians 5:10).
Key PracticesHonoring loved ones through burial and remembrance, mourning with hope (e.g., burial of Sarah, Genesis 23:19).All Souls’ Day (November 2), memorial masses, prayers for souls in purgatory, maintaining graves.Funeral services focus on the hope of resurrection, often called “celebrations of life.”Soul Saturdays, communal prayers for the dead, maintenance of graves, and communal mourning.
Prohibited PracticesNecromancy, spiritism, contacting the dead (Deuteronomy 18:10-12).Superstitious practices discouraged; emphasis on prayers for souls rather than communication with them.Avoids any form of necromancy or ancestor worship, discourages practices that might confuse remembrance with veneration.Clear distinction between veneration of saints and any form of worship directed to the dead.
Focus of RemembranceHonoring the past while focusing on God’s promises and hope of eternal life.Praying for the purification of souls in purgatory and offering masses in their memory.Celebrating the person’s legacy and remembering their life in light of Christ’s resurrection.The interconnectedness of the living and dead in the church, prayers to help the souls in their journey toward salvation.
Cultural and Liturgical ElementsUse of simple burials, tombs, or memorial stones (Joshua 4:5-7) without elevating the dead to worship-like status.Candles, prayers, and rituals around All Souls’ Day, maintaining gravesites, and lighting candles in memory.More individual or community-based memorials such as plaques, eulogies, or charitable acts in honor of the deceased.Icons, candles, and incense used during memorial services, with grave visits and prayers during major church feasts.

Explanation of the Table:

  • Biblical Principles: This column summarizes the biblical foundations for remembering the dead, particularly the examples of honoring the dead without engaging in prohibited practices like necromancy.
  • Catholic Tradition: It highlights practices such as All Souls’ Day, prayers for the souls in purgatory, and memorial masses, based on specific Catholic teachings.
  • Protestant Tradition: Protestant practices generally focus on celebrating the deceased’s life and faith, with a strong emphasis on the hope of resurrection, avoiding necromancy and superstitions.
  • Eastern Orthodox Tradition: The Orthodox Church emphasizes the interconnectedness of the living and the dead, with regular prayers for the dead, communal mourning, and specific feasts like “Soul Saturdays.”

What the Bible Does Not Encourage: Avoiding Misuse of Remembrance

As much as the Bible encourages us to honor and remember the dead, it also sets clear boundaries on how we are to engage with their memory. One of the most significant warnings in Scripture involves the practice of necromancy and spiritism—attempting to contact or communicate with the dead. This is a practice that the Bible unequivocally forbids.

In Deuteronomy 18:10–12, God gives a stern warning to the Israelites, forbidding them from engaging in any form of divination, witchcraft, or attempts to communicate with the dead. The passage says: “Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord.”

This command isn’t just about avoiding pagan practices; it’s about understanding that God alone has authority over life and death. Engaging in necromancy or seeking to communicate with the spirits of the dead shows a lack of trust in God’s sovereignty. The Bible consistently points us toward reliance on God for guidance, comfort, and hope, not on attempts to seek wisdom or consolation from those who have passed.

King Saul and the Witch of Endor: A Cautionary Tale

One of the most famous (or infamous) examples of this kind of forbidden behavior in the Bible is the story of King Saul and the witch of Endor, found in 1 Samuel 28. Desperate for guidance before an impending battle with the Philistines, Saul, who had previously expelled all mediums and spiritists from the land, seeks out a medium in secret. He asks her to summon the spirit of the prophet Samuel, hoping to receive direction.

This story serves as a powerful cautionary tale. Instead of trusting in God’s guidance, Saul resorts to forbidden practices, and the consequences are dire. Samuel’s spirit appears, but rather than offering comfort or guidance, he pronounces Saul’s doom, confirming that the king’s disobedience would lead to his downfall. Shortly after this encounter, Saul dies in battle, fulfilling the prophecy.

I’ve often reflected on this passage because it shows how dangerous it can be when we seek answers outside of God’s will. Saul’s actions show a desperate king who turned to the wrong source for guidance, leading to tragic consequences. This story serves as a warning to us not to misuse the memory of the dead or try to engage with them in ways that go against God’s clear commandments.

Misguided Rituals and Idolatry

Another important consideration is how certain rituals or practices surrounding the dead can slip into idolatry. In many ancient cultures, ancestor worship was common. People believed that deceased ancestors had the power to influence the living, either to bless or curse them. While the Bible encourages honoring one’s parents and ancestors (Exodus 20:12), it also makes it clear that no one but God is worthy of worship.

Deuteronomy 4:19 warns against worshiping “the sun, the moon, and the stars” or anything created, as these things can become objects of idolatry. In the same way, elevating the dead to a position of veneration that belongs only to God can be spiritually dangerous. Even when we honor the memory of a loved one, we must do so in a way that keeps God at the center of our faith and not allow our grief or remembrance to lead us into improper worship.

While certain Christian traditions, such as the veneration of saints, may be misunderstood in this light, the distinction between veneration (deep respect) and worship is important. Scripture makes clear that worship belongs to God alone (Exodus 34:14). So, when remembering those who have passed, it’s vital to avoid practices that might shift our focus away from the Creator.

Honoring with Discernment and Obedience

When reflecting on the balance Scripture teaches, I realize that God doesn’t ask us to avoid remembering the dead, but rather to do so with discernment. We are to honor the memory of those who have gone before us without crossing the boundaries set by Scripture. This means avoiding practices that lead into superstition, spiritism, or idolatry.

Instead, our remembrance should reflect biblical principles of faith, hope, and trust in God’s ultimate sovereignty over life and death. As believers, we’re called to honor the dead in ways that glorify God and reinforce our reliance on Him for all things—both in this life and the next.

Practical Applications for Christians Today

It’s clear that Christians today can and should remember the dead in ways that are biblically faithful and meaningful. The challenge for us is to honor those who have passed without straying into practices that contradict Scripture. So, how can we practically apply these biblical principles in our lives when it comes to remembering the dead?

One of the simplest, yet most profound, ways we can do this is by sharing stories and memories of loved ones. Telling the stories of their faith, love, and character can be a way to honor their lives while keeping our focus on God. This practice reflects the biblical emphasis on remembering not just for the sake of memory but as a way of teaching future generations. Just as the Israelites would recount the deeds of their ancestors and God’s works (Psalm 78:4), we can do the same with the lives of those who have passed on before us.

Additionally, remembering loved ones through prayer is another way to keep our focus on God. While the Bible doesn’t call us to pray to the dead, we can pray for the comfort of those left behind, for the ongoing impact of the deceased’s life and testimony, and for our own hearts as we process grief. Praying in this way not only honors their memory but invites God’s presence into our reflection.

Creating Christian Memorials

Another practical way Christians can remember the dead is through physical memorials that point to God’s promises and faithfulness. While we’ve seen that the Bible prohibits building idols or making monuments to worship the dead, it does allow for the creation of memorials that serve as reminders of important events or people, such as Joshua’s memorial stones (Joshua 4:5–7).

In today’s context, this might look like creating a plaque, a memory book, or a simple gravestone inscription that acknowledges the person’s life and faith while pointing to the hope of eternal life in Christ. Christian cemeteries and memorial gardens often follow this principle, focusing not just on the finality of death but on the promise of resurrection.

Some families also choose to create ongoing legacies in memory of their loved ones by supporting causes or ministries that reflect their values. Whether through charitable donations, scholarships, or service projects, these acts of remembrance honor the person’s life in a way that glorifies God and continues their legacy of faith.

Navigating Grief in Community

One of the greatest gifts the church can offer is a community that supports each other through grief. In Romans 12:15, Paul encourages us to “mourn with those who mourn.” This is an important part of our call as Christians—not just to remember the dead individually but to walk alongside others as they process loss. We often see this lived out in the church through the support offered at funerals, memorial services, and even in the months and years that follow a loss.

It’s essential to create spaces where grief can be expressed openly, without rushing to move past it. While our hope in Christ is sure, we are still called to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2), and that includes walking through the pain of loss. By doing this, we help each other remember the dead in a way that is filled with both love and hope, anchoring ourselves in God’s faithfulness as we grieve together.

Honoring Life Through Reflection and Action

For Christians, remembering the dead should be more than just a mental exercise. It can also spur us to action. One of the most powerful ways to honor the memory of a loved one is by continuing the good work they started or living out the values they embodied. If someone was known for their generosity, we can honor their memory by giving generously to others. If they were known for their faith, we can strengthen our own walk with Christ as a tribute to their influence.

In this way, our remembrance becomes active, reflecting the legacy they left behind and pointing others to the source of that legacy—God Himself. As Christians, our hope is not only in eternal life but in the transformative power of living faithfully in this world. Remembering the dead through actions that reflect their values is one way we can carry forward their memory in a way that honors both them and God.

Conclusion: Remembering with Faith, Hope, and Love

It is clear to me that our faith offers a unique and beautiful perspective. The act of remembering those who have passed is not just a matter of looking back with sorrow or sentimentality—it’s an opportunity to honor their lives in ways that reflect our faith in God’s promises.

The Bible encourages us to remember the dead in a way that is both respectful and rooted in the hope of resurrection. From the stories of faithful witnesses in Scripture to the comfort and guidance found in the teachings of Jesus and Paul, we see that death is not the end for those who are in Christ. As Christians, we mourn with hope, knowing that our loved ones are alive in Christ and that we, too, will one day be reunited in God’s presence.

At the same time, Scripture sets clear boundaries around how we remember the dead, warning us against practices like necromancy, spiritism, and anything that might detract from God’s sovereignty. Our remembrance must always be anchored in faith, ensuring that we honor the dead in ways that align with biblical principles.

Practically speaking, there are many ways we can remember loved ones that glorify God—whether through sharing stories, creating memorials, or continuing their legacy through acts of love and service. Each of these practices keeps our hearts fixed on the truths of Scripture: that death is a passage to eternal life, and that in Christ, we find the hope that transforms our grief.

In the end, remembering the dead is an act of love—love for those who have passed and love for the God who promises that death will one day be swallowed up in victory (1 Corinthians 15:54). As we carry the memories of our loved ones forward, may we do so with faith in God’s promises, hope in the resurrection, and love that reflects His heart.


Scholarly Citations

  1. Deuteronomy 18:10-12 (NIV) – This passage is key for understanding the biblical prohibition against necromancy and spiritism. For further scholarly analysis of this topic, see:
  2. 1 Samuel 28: Saul and the Witch of Endor – The story of Saul consulting the medium at Endor is often discussed in theological literature regarding necromancy and its dangers:
  3. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 (NIV) – Paul’s teachings on hope in the resurrection provide comfort and structure for Christian mourning:
  4. Communion of Saints and All Souls’ Day – The theological basis for the remembrance of the dead in Christian traditions such as All Souls’ Day:
    • Turner, Denys. The Theology of Thomas Aquinas. Cambridge University Press, 2013. (For discussions on purgatory and prayers for the dead).
    • Ferguson, Everett. The Early Church and Today. Vol. 1, ACU Press, 2000. (For historical insights on the development of Christian traditions related to the dead).

Further Reading and Resources

  1. N. T. WrightSurprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church. HarperOne, 2018.
    Wright explores how the hope of the resurrection should shape Christian practice, including how we approach death and remembrance.
  2. Warren WiersbeBe Comforted: Isaiah (The “Be” Series Commentary). David C. Cook, 1992.
    This commentary provides a comforting and insightful reflection on Isaiah’s teachings about life, death, and God’s promises for the future.
  3. Richard BauckhamThe Theology of the Book of Revelation. Cambridge University Press, 1993.
    Bauckham explores the theological significance of Revelation, including themes of martyrdom, death, and the resurrection.
  4. Catholic CatechismThe Catechism of the Catholic Church (for those interested in All Souls’ Day, the communion of saints, and prayers for the dead).
    The Catechism offers official teachings on the remembrance of the dead, purgatory, and the church’s historical practices.
  5. C.S. LewisA Grief Observed. HarperOne, 1961.
    Lewis’s personal reflection on grief and death offers profound Christian insight into how we mourn and remember loved ones while holding onto faith.

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11 Comments

  1. Jenny K.

    Sam, I found the part about ‘Grief in Light of Christian Hope’ really touching. It’s been hard dealing with my grandma’s passing, and trying to find comfort in faith sometimes feels impossible. How does one really apply these theological insights practically in times of deep sorrow? I get the theory but struggling with the application part. Does anyone have personal experiences they’d like to share?

    Reply
    • Sam

      I’m so sorry to hear about your grandma’s passing, and I truly understand how hard it can be to find comfort in faith during deep sorrow. It’s one thing to know the theology, but applying it when your heart is heavy can be a real struggle. One way I’ve found helpful is by leaning into the hope we have in Christ, even if it feels distant, and allowing myself to grieve fully while trusting that God is present in the pain. Surrounding yourself with loved ones and giving yourself grace to feel what you need to feel can also help.

      I hope others will share their experiences too. You’re not alone in this, and I’m praying you find peace and comfort in this difficult time.

      Reply
    • Mark T.

      Jenny, sorry for your loss. It’s not easy, but sharing in a community helped me a lot. Hold onto those small moments of comfort and keep reaching out.

      Reply
    • Sara L.

      I discovered that sometimes, it’s in the quiet moments of reflection that hope finds a way to shine through our grief. Sharing my experience brought solace, not only to me but also to others walking the same path.

      Reply
  2. dave M.

    interesting stuff you got there sam, but really, how many actually follow this to the letter? i mean, the part on ‘Avoiding Misuse of Remembrance’ sounds a bit out there.

    Reply
    • Sam

      I appreciate your honest feedback! I understand that the section on ‘Avoiding Misuse of Remembrance’ might sound a bit challenging to follow closely. When it comes to traditions around remembering the dead, practices can vary widely depending on culture and personal convictions. The idea is to encourage reflection on how we honor the memory of loved ones while keeping our focus on faith and hope in Christ. It’s not always about following every detail perfectly, but about approaching remembrance with intentionality and reverence.

      Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

      Reply
  3. AlexandraP

    In the section, ‘King Saul and the Witch of Endor: A Cautionary Tale,’ you’ve made a compelling analysis, Sam. However, it’s critical to consider the historical and cultural context in which these narratives were formed, which can add depth to our understanding of ancient practices related to remembering the dead.

    Reply
    • Sam

      Thank you so much for your insightful comment! You’re absolutely right—understanding the historical and cultural context of the story of King Saul and the Witch of Endor can definitely add depth to how we view ancient practices related to remembering the dead. The way people engaged with the spiritual realm and their beliefs about the afterlife varied greatly across cultures, and considering this context helps us appreciate the significance of these biblical narratives even more.

      I really appreciate you bringing this up!

      Reply
  4. Terry_o

    Absolutely fascinating read about the ‘Memorial Stones and Monuments’! History is full of these incredible ways to honor those who’ve passed, which really highlights our universal need to remember and celebrate lives. Does anyone know if there are similar practices in other cultures outside of the Christian tradition? Always eager to learn more about how different civilizations commemorate their ancestors.

    Reply
    • Sam

      Thank you so much! I’m really glad you enjoyed the section. You’re absolutely right—honoring those who’ve passed is such a universal part of human history. Many cultures have beautiful and meaningful ways of commemorating ancestors, like the Day of the Dead in Mexico or the ancestor veneration practices in various Asian cultures. It’s always interesting to see the similarities and differences across traditions. I’d love to hear if anyone else has insights to share on this too!

      Reply
  5. Charlie Z.

    Reading about ‘Remembering in Light of Resurrection’ gives hope. It’s a beautiful perspective all faiths could appreciate.

    Reply

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