----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Chris Arnzen" <carnzen@...>
>I cannot help but believe that much of this sentiment stems from
> an arrogant form of Hyper-Calvinistic piety, that insists that if anyone
> seeks comfort in ANYTHING else, other than Christ being in Sovereign
control
> over all events, he or she is a shallow Christian.

Now who's impugning motives? :-)

My view doesn't come from any kind of piety, but of exegesis of the text.  I
think you've missed the point of 1 Thes. 4:13-18.

>*HE* is the one who
> inspired Paul to remind us about departed Christian loved ones rising
again
> and returning with Him as a powerful source of comfort.

This isn't what 1 Thes. 4:13-18 says.

>If you concern yourself about
> anything less than the Person of Christ you are being shallow and
> man-centered.

Actually, this is the gist of 1 Thes. 4:13-18.  Not bad.

Chad Bresson
Xenia, OH