[This article was written by Tim Haile.]
For many years, there has been a running debate over whether or not it is scriptural and right to conduct weddings and funerals in buildings that are either bought, built, or rented by the Lord’s people for the purpose of serving God. In considering the right or wrong of a particular practice, the first question in our minds should always be, “Is there authority for this practice?” The Bible says, “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus…” (Colossians 3:17). If there is book, chapter, and verse authority for a practice, then the practice is right and it should be freely practiced. If biblical authority cannot be found for the practice, then it must be avoided and opposed. In this study we shall examine the arguments that are most often used in defense of conducting weddings and funerals in church buildings and we will test those arguments by God’s authoritative word. If these arguments pass that test then church buildings should be used for weddings and funerals at every opportunity. If the practice is authorized, it is just as authorized as other authorized practices. That would mean there would be just as much authority to use the building for weddings and funerals as there is to assemble for the Lord’s Supper or Bible study. If, however, these arguments prove either too much, or too little, then the practice needs to be reconsidered.
