Since the spiritual condition of an individual upon death is known only to God, our theologians have proceeded cautiously in making judgments in this regard. It is impossible for us to plumb the depths of gloom into which even Christian people may sink and irresponsibly lay unholy hands upon themselves. Perhaps the Lord will not hold them responsible, but we do not know. My reason is that they do not wish to kill themselves but are overcome by the power of the devil. As in the previous discussion, the service benefits the living and is part of the congregation's witness.
Death is especially difficult for the bereaved of the suicide of a loved one.
Usually the family feels a tremendous burden of guilt that an excessively judgmental pastor only exacerbates by refusing to officiate. On the other hand, when the deceased's ongoing life and the circumstances of his death manifest an absence of faith in Christ, the pastor cannot conduct a Christian burial service which offers the comfort of the hope of salvation for the one who has died. As the pastor wrestles with any difficult case, he will find it especially helpful to consult with fellow pastors.