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 | Blogs > reallysaved > From Where I Sit > Is It Okay to Be Cremated? |
Is It Okay to Be Cremated?
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3/26/2006 11:02 am |
Our physical bodies decay into dust... that's how God made us. Again, somebody came up with the idea of profiting off death by making a big deal about being buried in vaults or caskets or things... as if preserving the physical body is relevant. Trust me, if Father God wants our literal dead bodies to rise up beautiful then, definately, it will take a miracle. Good thing HE is in that business.  Donating to science is good, too.
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3/26/2006 11:54 am |
I remember studying about punishments in the Old Testament and cannot remember the exact passage, but cremation was used as punishment for the daughters of priests who committed fornication.
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3/26/2006 11:55 am |
This is just my own personal feelings on this subject. I have fought most of life not to be burned! One of my greatest fears is fire.  Elizabeth
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3/26/2006 2:46 pm |
I am not 'planning'* to have need of a funeral director's services for myself presently, but I have wondered about whether cremation is Biblical or not. Or is it just neutral? Anyway - voted don't know. Will be intered to hear if someone does. I think in some cultures they leave their dead on cliff tops for the birds to carry bits of them out into the world. I can understand the underlying sentiments in that but it would sure spoil some great sea-side walks. *I have also wondered if God runs a bus company because preachers always say 'you never know when you are going to get run over by a bus'. I have visions of mysterious buses lurking in the shadows for unregenerates coming out of mission rallies.
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3/26/2006 4:50 pm |
I personally don't really know or care if cremation is biblical. I have a severe fear of enclosed spaces. and that is not how i wish to spend my afterlife. lol. (yes i am awear that i am not in that coffen. only my body but still that fear is still very much a part of who i am.
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3/26/2006 6:09 pm |
For the most part Hebrews ( Jews ) didn't practice embalming or cremation, although there were some exceptions. In Gen. 50:2-3,26 we see Joseph directing the physicians to embalm his father, and in 1 Samuel 31:11-13; we have the people of Jabesh Gilead cremating ( or burning ) the bodies of Saul and his sons. The Bible does not give explicit directions on how a Christian's body is to be disposed of, just keep in mind that whatever method is used; be assured, we will still be resurrected on the last day. No, we speak of God's secret wisdom, a wisdom that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. 1 Cor. 2: 7
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3/26/2006 6:37 pm |
Our bodies are temples for the Holy Spirit to dwell in... like we are physical conduits of HIS living spirit on earth. AND because of HIS new covenant with us, HIS decision to totally embrace us back into completed fellowship with HIM as the bride of Christ... it means that literally our spirit becomes one with Christ's Holy Spirit and that God only sees us as an extension of Christ and not as *tribe human covenant breaker yucky poo nasty mess*. Nope! We are embraced by Jesus and covered by HIM and so in spirit we never, never die. Jesus conquered death and so we, as HIS bride, enjoy the benefits of conquered death, too. Spiritually we never, never die. I am the resurrection and the life. He that believth in ME tho he were dead Yet shall he live. Yet shall he live. And whosoever liveth and believeth in ME shall never, never die. Shall never, never die. The gift is the breath inside this package called my body. My body might be a fun or festive package but its just a package... fear not for this skin&bone packaging. HE loves your spirit. HIS love is extravagant! Yield your spirit to HIM and enjoy the flow of HIS love and see and hear with HIS eyes and ears. Cast your cares upon the Lord for HE will renew your strength. Fear NOT for He is with you. The fruits of HIS spirit are: peace, joy, love, patience, kindness.... Lord, touch us deep with a double portion of your Love. More Lord! We claim your promise that true love casts out fear. Especially fear of the grave. Thank you for conquering death so the we can be reconciled to you always and forever and ever, amen. Fear be gone! Love sustains us, HIS LOVE. Get schnockered on HIS Love.
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3/26/2006 8:28 pm |
Not sure on this, but just my opinion, I believe that there is more of an interest on what happens to our spirit after our phisical death, not what happens to our shells. BUT, I am more than willing to hear out anyone otherwise.
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3/26/2006 9:05 pm |
Amen to godlycook's comment...we will still be resurrected on the last day... My husband was cremated on his passing away to be with the Lord...I always think in terms of this way... When buried...we are going to be turned back into dust...earth to earth...worms eat up our flesh and they move off to wherever they move off to...  ...our body parts are dispersedWhen cremated...ashes remain...is God not able to make whole something that is dust...after all Adam was created from the dust in the ground...Gen.2  Just my thoughts...thanks Jean for post/poll.. you love them you said...be blessed!Man can make many plans...BUT it is the Lord who will direct his paths....
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3/26/2006 9:11 pm |
Haha Jean...sorry, writing again...I was thinking huh...what happened to Gen. 2 when I gave scriptural reference...and surprise surprise...Gen 2...colon seven is an emoticon smiley icon Man can make many plans...BUT it is the Lord who will direct his paths....
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3/26/2006 10:51 pm |
godlycook, thankyou for your comment.AWESOME
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3/26/2006 11:59 pm |
What an interesting topic. I fully expect to be cremated and I don't particularly care what becomes of the ashes. Putting me in the ground will take up too much precious space, for what? My mother's homeland is fast running out of ground so it was suggested they bring in a crematorium, but for spiritual/superstitious reasons it did not go down well with the people... instead they fight over the land. It's funny how some cultures believe that burning the body means that the spirit can't pass onto the next journey  and some believe it is by burning the body that the spirit is released  Whew I'm so grateful that God made it simpler than that!
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3/27/2006 2:26 am |
I'm an RN and have long struggled with that question, also the question of technology supported life support to one who is brain dead, or considered a vegetable. Another, who should and should not Have a DNR (Do Not Resusitate) order. I believe God has answered these questions for me. Include in this what types of support they would choose to have to maintain physical life. I've long said and told my sons, do not put me on life support. I've threatened to come back and haunt them if they did. I still feel that way pretty much. I have seen, although, many "vegetables" or those who are "brain dead" come out of it and lead a quality life. My choice is IV fluids and Iv antibiotics only. I have seen many make health decisions for their loved ones to eliminate these. This is cruel. It takes days and days and they dry out and lips, skin, everything starts cracking. Why die from infection, very painful and sick, when IV antibiotics can prevent that kind of suffering. Most, in that state, if severely ill, don't need the feeding tubes. I do not believe they suffer so much in that area. Their body needs little nutrition if they are gravely ill. I once was assigned to a patient from my church. It looked like a choice would soon need to be made to choose what life sustaining methods the family or individual would want, if any. I talked them through the DNR form and explained. Later, our Pastor came to visit them. He pulled me aside and pointed this out. Keep them alive if they are not saved. His wife is a nurse too. I think he had a very good point, yet I wouldn't want anyone to go on like that for months and months, much less years. The topic of this blog, organ donation I have long thought about and searched for the truth. I've been told me things, but believe the one that the Holy Spirit himself told me. Yes Yes Yes!!! I agree,with ashes to ashes and dust to dust. One reason I sought the answer to this so greatly was when my youngest son got his driver's liscense. h e listed himself as an organ donor. I've had the fear for a long time of ever having an autopsy on myself or someone I loved. I still can't stomach the idea of it. I even risked a bad grade in college by refusing to go on a field trip to study cadavers. I still would too. When watching a movie, one of many over the years, on organ donation the Lord spoke to me. Yes!!! It was by His Spirit that I learned. Zec 4: 6 Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. My sons have one more threat I hold over them. I aspire to be just like "Sophia" on "The Golden Girls" when I get her age. This is the one they threaten me back with. LOL (I have almost weaned myself off watching that show.) When I was in deep depression for a few years it really helped. I could laugh always there. I do now know better.
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3/27/2006 2:31 am |
oops, I left out the main point. Yes I believe in cremation, after years of struggling with that one too.
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3/27/2006 12:25 pm |
Our Spirits live forever. We are promised new bodies when our spirits go to be with our Saviour. It makes no difference to our earthly bodies what happens to them when we leave. Rather be cremated. No mess, no bother, no grave to maintain. Joy1944
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3/27/2006 3:13 pm |
Our physical bodies decay into dust... that's how God made us. Again, somebody came up with the idea of profiting off death by making a big deal about being buried in vaults or caskets or things... as if preserving the physical body is relevant. Trust me, if Father God wants our literal dead bodies to rise up beautiful then, definately, it will take a miracle. Good thing HE is in that business. Donating to science is good, too. The average funeral in this country costs like $8,000. I agree with you, gpsysong, this is a racket! I think it will be pretty cool how the Lord gathers up every tiny bit of my ashes when I am resurrected! How exciting! Donating to science? No, not for me. My family can handle me being fried faster than they can someone cutting me open. I am an organ donor, though. Anything that can help someone else, will! Thanks for your thoughts!
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3/27/2006 3:14 pm |
I remember studying about punishments in the Old Testament and cannot remember the exact passage, but cremation was used as punishment for the daughters of priests who committed fornication.
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3/27/2006 3:16 pm |
This is just my own personal feelings on this subject. I have fought most of life not to be burned! One of my greatest fears is fire.
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3/27/2006 3:20 pm |
I am not 'planning'* to have need of a funeral director's services for myself presently, but I have wondered about whether cremation is Biblical or not. Or is it just neutral? Anyway - voted don't know. Will be intered to hear if someone does. I think in some cultures they leave their dead on cliff tops for the birds to carry bits of them out into the world. I can understand the underlying sentiments in that but it would sure spoil some great sea-side walks. *I have also wondered if God runs a bus company because preachers always say 'you never know when you are going to get run over by a bus'. I have visions of mysterious buses lurking in the shadows for unregenerates coming out of mission rallies. Seriously, though, I think it is very important that we decide these things and let our family know what we want. That goes for living wills and advance directives. Don't let your family decide these things. I have seen families torn apart because they had to decide things for loved ones. How sad! Thanks for the visit to my blog and the laugh!
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3/27/2006 3:21 pm |
I personally don't really know or care if cremation is biblical. I have a severe fear of enclosed spaces. and that is not how i wish to spend my afterlife. lol. (yes i am awear that i am not in that coffen. only my body but still that fear is still very much a part of who i am.
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3/27/2006 3:25 pm |
For the most part Hebrews ( Jews ) didn't practice embalming or cremation, although there were some exceptions. In Gen. 50:2-3,26 we see Joseph directing the physicians to embalm his father, and in 1 Samuel 31:11-13; we have the people of Jabesh Gilead cremating ( or burning ) the bodies of Saul and his sons. The Bible does not give explicit directions on how a Christian's body is to be disposed of, just keep in mind that whatever method is used; be assured, we will still be resurrected on the last day. So, there you have it, folks! We can have our bodies disposed of in any manner the law allows and we choose. Like Steve says, though, we should be more concerned about where we are going to spend eternity after our bodies are resurrected than in what state we wait for that resurrection day! Amen, Brother! Good point!
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3/27/2006 3:27 pm |
Our bodies are temples for the Holy Spirit to dwell in... like we are physical conduits of HIS living spirit on earth. AND because of HIS new covenant with us, HIS decision to totally embrace us back into completed fellowship with HIM as the bride of Christ... it means that literally our spirit becomes one with Christ's Holy Spirit and that God only sees us as an extension of Christ and not as *tribe human covenant breaker yucky poo nasty mess*. Nope! We are embraced by Jesus and covered by HIM and so in spirit we never, never die. Jesus conquered death and so we, as HIS bride, enjoy the benefits of conquered death, too. Spiritually we never, never die. I am the resurrection and the life. He that believth in ME tho he were dead Yet shall he live. Yet shall he live. And whosoever liveth and believeth in ME shall never, never die. Shall never, never die. The gift is the breath inside this package called my body. My body might be a fun or festive package but its just a package... fear not for this skin&bone packaging. HE loves your spirit. HIS love is extravagant! Yield your spirit to HIM and enjoy the flow of HIS love and see and hear with HIS eyes and ears. Cast your cares upon the Lord for HE will renew your strength. Fear NOT for He is with you. The fruits of HIS spirit are: peace, joy, love, patience, kindness.... Lord, touch us deep with a double portion of your Love. More Lord! We claim your promise that true love casts out fear. Especially fear of the grave. Thank you for conquering death so the we can be reconciled to you always and forever and ever, amen. Fear be gone! Love sustains us, HIS LOVE. Get schnockered on HIS Love.
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3/27/2006 3:28 pm |
Not sure on this, but just my opinion, I believe that there is more of an interest on what happens to our spirit after our phisical death, not what happens to our shells. BUT, I am more than willing to hear out anyone otherwise.
| |||
3/27/2006 3:30 pm |
Amen to godlycook's comment...we will still be resurrected on the last day... My husband was cremated on his passing away to be with the Lord...I always think in terms of this way... When buried...we are going to be turned back into dust...earth to earth...worms eat up our flesh and they move off to wherever they move off to... ...our body parts are dispersedWhen cremated...ashes remain...is God not able to make whole something that is dust...after all Adam was created from the dust in the ground...Gen.2 Just my thoughts...thanks Jean for post/poll.. you love them you said...be blessed!
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3/27/2006 3:31 pm |
Haha Jean...sorry, writing again...I was thinking huh...what happened to Gen. 2 when I gave scriptural reference...and surprise surprise...Gen 2...colon seven is an emoticon smiley icon
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3/27/2006 3:33 pm |
godlycook, thankyou for your comment.AWESOME 
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3/27/2006 3:39 pm |
What an interesting topic. I fully expect to be cremated and I don't particularly care what becomes of the ashes. Putting me in the ground will take up too much precious space, for what? My mother's homeland is fast running out of ground so it was suggested they bring in a crematorium, but for spiritual/superstitious reasons it did not go down well with the people... instead they fight over the land. It's funny how some cultures believe that burning the body means that the spirit can't pass onto the next journey and some believe it is by burning the body that the spirit is released Whew I'm so grateful that God made it simpler than that!
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3/27/2006 3:43 pm |
I'm an RN and have long struggled with that question, also the question of technology supported life support to one who is brain dead, or considered a vegetable. Another, who should and should not Have a DNR (Do Not Resusitate) order. I believe God has answered these questions for me. Include in this what types of support they would choose to have to maintain physical life. I've long said and told my sons, do not put me on life support. I've threatened to come back and haunt them if they did. I still feel that way pretty much. I have seen, although, many "vegetables" or those who are "brain dead" come out of it and lead a quality life. My choice is IV fluids and Iv antibiotics only. I have seen many make health decisions for their loved ones to eliminate these. This is cruel. It takes days and days and they dry out and lips, skin, everything starts cracking. Why die from infection, very painful and sick, when IV antibiotics can prevent that kind of suffering. Most, in that state, if severely ill, don't need the feeding tubes. I do not believe they suffer so much in that area. Their body needs little nutrition if they are gravely ill. I once was assigned to a patient from my church. It looked like a choice would soon need to be made to choose what life sustaining methods the family or individual would want, if any. I talked them through the DNR form and explained. Later, our Pastor came to visit them. He pulled me aside and pointed this out. Keep them alive if they are not saved. His wife is a nurse too. I think he had a very good point, yet I wouldn't want anyone to go on like that for months and months, much less years. The topic of this blog, organ donation I have long thought about and searched for the truth. I've been told me things, but believe the one that the Holy Spirit himself told me. Yes Yes Yes!!! I agree,with ashes to ashes and dust to dust. One reason I sought the answer to this so greatly was when my youngest son got his driver's liscense. h e listed himself as an organ donor. I've had the fear for a long time of ever having an autopsy on myself or someone I loved. I still can't stomach the idea of it. I even risked a bad grade in college by refusing to go on a field trip to study cadavers. I still would too. When watching a movie, one of many over the years, on organ donation the Lord spoke to me. Yes!!! It was by His Spirit that I learned. Zec 4: 6 Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. My sons have one more threat I hold over them. I aspire to be just like "Sophia" on "The Golden Girls" when I get her age. This is the one they threaten me back with. LOL (I have almost weaned myself off watching that show.) When I was in deep depression for a few years it really helped. I could laugh always there. I do now know better.
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3/27/2006 3:57 pm |
oops, I left out the main point. Yes I believe in cremation, after years of struggling with that one too.
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3/27/2006 3:59 pm |
Our Spirits live forever. We are promised new bodies when our spirits go to be with our Saviour. It makes no difference to our earthly bodies what happens to them when we leave. Rather be cremated. No mess, no bother, no grave to maintain. Joy1944
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3/27/2006 6:21 pm |
Hi. Great question, here's my take: What is done with this earthly shell on my death is of no concern to me. "And after my skin is destroyed, this I know, that in my flesh flesh I shall see God." Job 19:26
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3/28/2006 2:28 am |
We get new clothes in heaven so why carry the old with us ?
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3/28/2006 1:27 pm |
I'm not sure if it's biblical or not. The bible says we return to dust (no mention of ashes as far as I know). To me, returning to dust would mean a burial, not cremation.
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3/28/2006 3:15 pm |
So your point is what? Only fornicators should be cremated? Well, I guess I qualify, then. I have fornicated in the past. I like this answer...Only because it keeps the blog and posts on subject. A bit of history is nice.......Hmm guess I'd have to be cremated also, even though Jesus forgave me of that sin a long time ago. TeaKitty
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3/28/2006 3:34 pm |
blessings jean sister in the lord jesus christ and the dead in christ will rise first to meet him in the air so if we are buryed we will rise if we are cremated every little atom will come back together to be as we were only better [like him] may the lord of grace be with you in all that you do in his name amen
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3/28/2006 4:02 pm |
I'm definitely torn on this one and I think I will ask my pastor about this. I voted I don't know.
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3/28/2006 4:24 pm |
It does say ashes to ashes dust to dust. I believe god will get all his children even the sea will give up it's dead.
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3/28/2006 6:37 pm |
blessings dear sister jean wither we are atoms of dust or atoms of ash our saviour will bring them altogether on that glorious day to be with him buried or burn we will not be there absent from the body present with the lord may he bless and keep you until that wonderful day in jesus name amen
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3/28/2006 6:54 pm |
My mom was concerned about cremation being wrong. I told her not to worry, don't limit God's powers, He can put anything back together. After all, we started from dust....
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3/29/2006 6:55 am |
It's the symbolism of the thing. In Christianity there is an abundance of figures, symbols, and all of thes have meaning. I'm a Baptist and we don't have as much symbolism as other churches but we do have some..ie crosses and fish. To me these symbols are much more than pictures...They are means of worship. The cross tells Jesus, "Lord thank you for dying for us" The fish says, "I am a Christian" It is witnessing to our faith in Christ. Christian burial is also symbolic..we await our resurrection by God. There are Scriptures that tell us God will raise up our bodies. .."all that are in the gaves shall come forth" Jhn 5:28-29 , " ...we look for the Savior..the Lord Jesus Christ who shallchange our vile bodies and fashioned them like unto His glorious body according to the working whereby He is able also to subdue all things unto Himself" Phil.3:20-21 The passage I gave of John 5:28-29 even says "they that are in their graves shall hear His voice and shall come forth" My father and stepmother were cremated, my son in '99 was cremated, my daughter last Nov 2005 was cremated, my two sons living want to be cremated. But old Dad is still old fashioned and wants to keep the symbol....a body in it's grave being rasied at the last day by Jesus Christ. But what about all the dead of all the ages? Some are dust...even the bones are gone ..in the oceans which were food for sharks...and graves of all the thoudannds of years? Well I believe if God can make something out of nothing...like for example the Universe...He wouldn't have much trouble putting us all back together and RAISE US UP ON RESURRECTION DAY. I just have a good feeling about the burial of a Christian. Guess I always have.
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3/29/2006 9:27 am |
My body is a shell, nothing more. Once I'm done with it it matters not what happens to it, though my personal preference (once any organs and other bits that will be of use to someone else are removed) is for cremation and the ashes not to be collected, in order that anyone I might leave behind does not feel burdened to look after any form of grave or marker.
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3/29/2006 2:10 pm |
Well in some places the racket extends to cremation and you can pay ungodly prices for this also... Marilyn Texas Senior Singles 2fitness In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:6
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3/30/2006 2:31 pm |
reallysaved, No. All I was saying is that it was used as a form of punishment.
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3/30/2006 4:08 pm |
Hi. Great question, here's my take: What is done with this earthly shell on my death is of no concern to me. "And after my skin is destroyed, this I know, that in my flesh flesh I shall see God." Job 19:26
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3/30/2006 4:08 pm |
We get new clothes in heaven so why carry the old with us ?
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3/30/2006 4:10 pm |
I'm not sure if it's biblical or not. The bible says we return to dust (no mention of ashes as far as I know). To me, returning to dust would mean a burial, not cremation.
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3/30/2006 4:11 pm |
Reallysaved. I like this answer...Only because it keeps the blog and posts on subject. A bit of history is nice.......Hmm guess I'd have to be cremated also, even though Jesus forgave me of that sin a long time ago. TeaKitty
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3/30/2006 4:14 pm |
blessings jean sister in the lord jesus christ and the dead in christ will rise first to meet him in the air so if we are buryed we will rise if we are cremated every little atom will come back together to be as we were only better [like him] may the lord of grace be with you in all that you do in his name amen
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3/30/2006 4:15 pm |
It does say ashes to ashes dust to dust. I believe god will get all his children even the sea will give up it's dead.
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4/1/2006 11:21 pm |
I had this discussion once and a person told me that in the old testament God was mad because some of his people had been burned to that degree. I suppose it isnt a big deal. My dad was. However I am against it. My gut assumption is it is wrong. But what diff does it make. Its a shell. I dont want to be creamated.
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4/8/2006 1:43 am |
Really Saved, I'm new in blog land, but enjoying it. It too, as the computer and chat rooms tend to come near the addiction stage. You are a really sweet and meek person. I read the comments you've made to each post and you are very positive. Thank you !!! I've long held my peace on many subjects, as I have learned to choose my battles carefully. Not so much that though, but as led by the Lord. So, this is new to me, once again. I am going to speak up on things I strongly believe in. I was a little afraid to come back and read what others may have written after I made comments. You really helped, really saved. Thanks!!! I will, as I get time, think about the important issues you mentioned and pray about them. You are right, people need to be informed, and you don't always get accurate information in the health care facilities. I've not worked in a little over four years so I'll need to update my information and how the system now works. One thing I will say here and now. If you do have a living will or an advanced directive,,,please keep copies of it handy at all times. If you would call an ambulance, or get taken to an ER you would immediately get full life sustaining procedures implemented. The papers should be handed to the professionals before they see the patient. Have copies in your purse or wallet, one in your vehicles and in many family members hands. Just because your physician knows, doesn't mean he will remember. Especially, if he isn't the one there directing the patients care. There are many nurses on BC. I'm sure we could get together and get the updated and accurate information pertaining to these specific and important issues in blogs. Great idea ReallySaved. God Bless, Jaci
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4/13/2006 11:50 am |
I have wondered this myself. I am not sure....I dont know that it is God's plan for us to be cremated but what about the saints of God that have been burned to death? I am sure they have a place in heaven.
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