Most people think of a will as a legal document that says who gets what. That's true—but for many Christians, a will can also be a final act of stewardship: a way to care for family, reduce confusion, and leave a clear testimony of faith. A Christian Will is a traditional last will and testament that intentionally reflects Christian beliefs and values alongside standard estate-planning instructions.

“Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2)

Definition: A Will With Spiritual Intentionality

A Christian Will is not a separate kind of will recognized by the government. It's legally the same as any other will: it names beneficiaries, appoints an executor, and gives directions for handling property when you die. What makes it “Christian” is the way it is written and the priorities it expresses—often including a statement of faith, charitable giving, guidance for children, and requests for a funeral or memorial service that honors Christ.

Common Elements of a Christian Will

·        A statement of faith (sometimes called an ethical will): a brief witness to the gospel and the hope of resurrection.

·        Stewardship-oriented distributions: bequests that reflect priorities such as caring for vulnerable family members, funding education, or supporting ministry.

·        Charitable gifts to a church, mission agency, Christian school, or other ministry (specific amounts, percentages, or “residuary” gifts).

·        Guardianship nominations for minor children—often considering the spiritual maturity and values of potential guardians.

·        Executor selection with an emphasis on integrity, clarity, and willingness to follow instructions.

·        Funeral and burial wishes (kept simple): scripture readings, hymns, or a request for a Christ-centered service.

·        Practical details that reduce burden: where documents are stored, key contacts, and how to access accounts (without listing passwords in the will).

Why Create a Christian Will?

A Christian Will helps you do more than “divide assets.” It can:

·        Serve your family by reducing uncertainty, conflict, and administrative stress.

·        Reflect biblical stewardship—treating resources as entrusted gifts to be managed wisely (even at the end of life).

·        Provide spiritual encouragement through words you intentionally leave behind.

·        Support ministry impact by directing part of your estate to gospel work.

·        Protect children by nominating guardians aligned with your values and by planning financially for their care.

What a Christian Will Is Not

·        Not a substitute for legal advice. A Christian Will still needs to meet your state's legal requirements for signing, witnessing, and execution.

·        Not the only estate-planning tool. Many estates also use beneficiary designations (retirement accounts, life insurance), trusts, and powers of attorney.

·        Not primarily about controlling people. It's wise to offer guidance, but avoid using a will to pressure or punish. Aim for clarity, peace, and generosity.

How to Create a Christian Will (Practical Steps)

1.      Start with prayer and a conversation. Consider your responsibilities, your family's needs, and any ministries you feel called to support.

2.      Inventory what you own. List major assets and accounts, and note which items pass by beneficiary designation versus by will.

3.      Choose key people carefully. Select an executor you trust, and nominate guardians for minor children (and alternates).

4.      Decide what you want to say. If you include a statement of faith or personal letter, keep it sincere and concise. 

 This might be a simple statement such as:

I, _____________________, of  __________________________, with full confident and trust in my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and knowing that by faith in His sacrifice I have eternal life, do hereby make, publish, and declare this to to be my Last Will and Testament, hereby revoking and making null and void any and all Wills, Testaments, Codicils, or writings in the nature thereof made by me previously. 

It could also be a more detailed statement such as:

First of all, I want to give thanks to the God of my fathers, and my God, for his free gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ my Lord, which I have accepted. My testimony is that Jesus died for my sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, and that he was raised from the dead on the third day. I believe that He is the Resurrection and the Life, that whoever believes in Him will live, even though he dies, and that whoever lives and believes in Him will never die.

I, also, want to thank the Lord for his abundant provision for me in this life, first all of through my godly parents, who taught me the Holy Scriptures from infancy, and then for the abundant provision the Lord provided through my marriage to [Spouse].  The Lord has blessed me in every way.

Many people place longer reflections in a separate “letter of instruction” so the will stays clean and legal.

5.      Work with an estate-planning attorney. Laws vary by state, and small mistakes can create big problems. Ask about options like trusts, charitable giving strategies, and tax considerations that fit your goals.

6.      Sign and store it properly. Follow witness/notary rules, keep the original in a safe place, and tell your executor how to access it.

Conclusion

Creating a Christian Will is one way to love your neighbor—starting with your own household—by bringing order, generosity, and faith into a difficult moment. It won't say everything you've ever wanted to say, but it can say the most important things clearly: who will care for your family, how your resources should be used, and where your hope ultimately rests.If you would like to discuss your Estate Plan as how a Christian Will might be part of that, please contact L. Theodore Hoppe, Jr., Esquire, Attorney at Law at 610-368-3695.