Flowers For Funerals
I received inquiry in regard to buying flowers for funerals. This brother stated he had read my article on "Church problems" which was in the January 21 issue of the Guardian and was wanting to know about this problem (for it seemingly was a problem in his local congregation); along with some comments on the church being the body of Christ.
Dear Brother__ ____
Your inquiry came in regard to buying flowers for funerals, and I am sure what I have to say about this will also apply to buying the same for the sick. To me, this comes under the command to "weep with them that weep" (Rom. 12:15), or "And whether one member suffereth, all the members suffer with it." (1 Cor. 12:26) Buying flowers, helping, etc., are ways of expressing sympathy and encouragement to one another.
In 1 Corinthians 12 spiritual gifts were discussed. To show that members shouldn't abuse these gifts to the setting aside other members, Paul illustrates with the human body. As each member of the physical body was important, and each organ of this body was affected by the welfare of the other organs; so in the body of Christ. Now you will notice that this teaching of mutual concern and care one for another was given in connection with the edification of the church. (1 Cor. 14:4) Since this is true, I see no reason for objecting to the congregation as a whole (or individually) doing those things to help and encourage in times of sorrow and distress. Of course, we understand that spiritual gifts, such as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12, are not now in existence, but the concern of members one for another and all feeling a responsibility in the Lord's work is a teaching that applies now.
If I have not covered the points you wanted discussed, I shall be glad to oblige, if I can. Feel free to write, and if I have missed some truth I will appreciate your help.
I believe the church is facing some serious problems. We should not create organizations through which the church is to do its work; elders should not oversee a work which is not the work of the "flock" which is "among" them; and we should not make the church a social and political organization. These are some of the problems I had in mind when I wrote the article to which you referred in your letter.
Fraternally, J. W.