Where Does Easter Fit Into the Picture?
Beyond Today Magazine
Good News Magazine: March - April 2014
Course Content
Are you missing out on the deeper meaning of Christ's resurrection?
I am a Christian, but I do not celebrate Easter. Yes, I know that this holiday traditionally commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. And I certainly know that the resurrection defines the Christian faith. But Easter Sunday traditions like colored eggs, bunnies and parades obscure the rich meaning of this event. Regrettably, many observe Easter Sunday without really understanding the actual timing and full truth of Christ's resurrection.
Many others do not believe Jesus was divine or that He was even resurrected from the dead. Perhaps you feel the same way or may be confused about this vital subject.
Many observe Easter without really considering what they are trying to commemorate. And that's understandable, because Easter hides the vital truth about Christ's resurrection and its deepest meaning.
It's time for you to consider whether Christ really rose from the dead. If He did not rise, then Christianity is a pious fraud. If He did, then it makes all the difference in the world.
We encourage you to delve deeper into this subject. The Good Friday and Easter Sunday traditions do not hold up to the light of Scripture. Jesus Christ was not killed on a Friday, and by the time the disciples came to the tomb on Sunday morning He was already resurrected—at the end of the previous day around sunset. (Be sure to read "Three Days and Three Nights: Did Jesus Keep His Word?")
If you'd like to learn more about the real origins of Easter, download or request our free Bible study aid booklet Holidays or Holy Days: Does It Matter Which Days We Observe? You need to learn the truth about this popular holiday!
Darris McNeely works at the United Church of God home office in Cincinnati, Ohio. He and his wife, Debbie, have served in the ministry for more than 43 years. They have two sons, who are both married, and four grandchildren. Darris is the Associate Media Producer for the Church. He also is a resident faculty member at the Ambassador Bible Center teaching Acts, Fundamentals of Belief and World News and Prophecy. He enjoys hunting, travel and reading and spending time with his grandchildren.
