Renewal and Hope: Easter's Transformation
Almost two thousand years ago, Jesus died on the cross, was buried, and three days later rose to life again and lives forevermore.
This is the reason for commemorating Easter, which is one of the most significant and sacred holidays in Christianity. During the Easter season, we remember the death and the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Key Bible Verses about Easter
- Now after the Sabbath, toward the dawn of the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. And behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing was white as snow. And for fear of him the guards trembled and became like dead men. But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where helay. Then, go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead (Matthew 28:1-7)
- Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead (1 Peter 1:3)
- He is not here but is risen! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee, saying, ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again (Luke 24:6-7)
Why is Easter important?
Christ's resurrection is imaginably the most important event to occur in the history of Christianity. Our faith would have no ground if Jesus did not die and be raised from the dead.
According to 1 Corinthians 15:17, “If Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins!”
Easter commemoration is an important event in every Christian’s life. For believers, Easter's meaning is multifaceted and deeply profound. Let’s break it down.
1. Victory over Evil
Easter signifies the victory of Jesus Christ over the forces of evil, including sin, darkness, Satan, and death.
It shall be imputed to us who believe in Him who raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead, who was delivered up because of our offenses, and was raised because of our justification (Romans 4:24-25)
The last enemy that will be destroyed is death. (1Corinthians 15:26)
Easter means that all our sins are forgiven, the price has been paid, and we are made right with God. Easter also reminds us that Jesus conquered our greatest enemy — death.
2. Resurrection
Easter is also significant because of the celebration of Jesus Christ's resurrection on the third day after his crucifixion. Resurrection is the cornerstone of the Christian faith, symbolizing victory over death, and the promise of eternal life for believers.
3. Salvation
Easter highlights the belief that Jesus' death on the cross atoned for humankind's sins, providing the means for redemption and reconciliation between God and humanity. Through faith in Jesus Christ, Christians can receive forgiveness of sins and salvation.
4. God is Mighty and Powerful
Easter demonstrates the incomprehensible great power of God on full display.
It affirms the belief that the power of God is ultimately greater than any other worldly power.
What is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power (Ephesians 1:19)
The story of Christ’s resurrection also displays God’s power over life and over nature—He can move mountains, shake the ground, and restore the dead to life.
Though He was crucified in weakness, He lives by God's power. For we also are weak in Him, but we shall live with Him by the power of God toward you (2 Corinthians 13:4)
5. Hope, Renewal & Faith Affirmation
Easter is a time of hope, renewal, and a reaffirmation of faith, symbolizing new beginnings. It reminds us that even amid suffering, despair, and death, there is the promise of new life and restoration through Jesus Christ.
It serves as an opportunity for believers to reflect on the importance of Jesus, his life, death, and resurrection and to reaffirm their faith in him.
6. God Love Us
Because of God’s love for mankind, he gave his only begotten son, as written in John 3:16. It was for love that Jesus died for us on the cross, and it is also for love that He now lives to intercede for us.
Greater love has no one than this than to lay down one’s life for his friends. (John 15:13)
Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died and is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, and who also makes intercession for us. (Romans 8:34)
7. Celebration and Joy!
For Christians worldwide, Easter is a celebration marked by worship services, prayers, hymns, and getting together with family and friends. It is a time to express gratitude for God's love and mercy, rejoice, and share the hope of eternal life through Christ with others.
As Jesus said, “Because I live, you also will live” (John 14:19)
And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all. (Acts 4:33)
Believers can now proclaim good news to the poor, freedom for the prisoners, and recovery of sight for the blind.
Want to know more about Jesus? Contact us today at Westside Bible Chapel through our website contact form or Facebook page.