What does the Bible say about holding a burial for someone whose body is lost?
The Bible is silent on matters of burial. In fact, the Bible makes clear that after we die, our physical body is a meaningless vessel destined to return to the earth one way or another (see Genesis 3:19).
Therefore, a Christian may make any arrangements he or she desires for the disposition of his or her dead body. Our only consideration should be the comfort of the living after our death. If one style of disposition offends family or friends, we might consider avoiding it out of love for them. If burial costs pose a financial hardship on our surviving family, we might elect for the least expensive option.
In the end, none of these choices have any bearing on our relationship with Jesus or our eternal future. It is simply a matter reserved for those we leave behind. As Jesus told one of His disciples:
Matt. 8:21 Another of the disciples said to Him, “Lord, permit me first to go and bury my father.”
Matt. 8:22 But Jesus said to him, “Follow Me, and allow the dead to bury their own dead.”
You may also find the following article helpful:
Biblical Burial Requirements
