Day of Death Better than Birth

Day of Death Better Than Birth (Eccl 7:1)
Exposition: Why this odd connection?
The Jews rubbed aromatic oil or ointment on children at birth (e.g. Ez 16:9). But it didn't have as sweet a savor as a good name left behind (Pr 10:7).

Doctrine: The day of a godly man's death is better than the day of his birth.
A strange paradox. But it's better because:

1. A godly man on the day of his death receives a better and more blessed life than on the day of his birth.
   Scripture often calls death of the godly "sleep" (e.g. Acts 7:60, 1Cor 15:18). Jesus says that one who believes in him shall not die (Jn 6:49-51, cf. Ps 17:15). Although a godly man receives spiritual life at conversion, on day of his death, he receives life of glory.

2. ... enters a better world
   "Pleasures forevermore" (Ps 16). Now: valley of tears. Then: Mt Zion (Is 35:10, Rev 21:4). Better inhabitants. Goes from world under a curse to one of "no curse."

3. ... sees a more pleasant and glorious light
   Rev 21:23, 22:5

4. ... is received by a better parent
   Leaves parents in tears, but is received into arms of heavenly Father.

5. ... receives a better inheritance
   1Pe 1:4, see Acts 7:56

Application

1. Should moderate grief of those who have lost dear godly friends
   If they get home a little before you, should you break your heart with grief?

2. People need to get into state where day of their death may be better than birth.
   Ps 89:48, see Eccl 3:2, Heb 2:15, Is 32:17

3. How vastly different from this is the day of the death of a wicked man.
   Eccl 5:17, "All his days also he eats in darkness, and he has much sorrow and wrath with his sickness."