Do We Have to Celebrate Easter?

Is Easter a pagan holiday? Must Christians celebrate it? Let's find out.

Written By Lois

Picture by Alicia Quan

Easter is a Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It is observed by billions of people around the world, but not everyone believes that it is necessary to celebrate this holiday. In this article, we will explore the reasons why some people do not celebrate Easter, and what the Bible has to say about it, remembering the bible is our guide as Christians.

Some people believe that Easter is a man-made tradition that has nothing to do with the Bible. They argue that the word "Easter" does not appear in the Bible and that the holiday is based on pagan rituals and customs. While it is true that the word "Easter" does not appear in the Bible, the event that Easter celebrates—the resurrection of Jesus Christ—is central to the Christian faith and is mentioned in all gospels in the bible.

In fact, the Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 15:14 that "if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain." This verse shows us that the resurrection of Jesus Christ is essential to the Christian faith. Without it, Christianity would have no basis and no hope for salvation. Why? because the resurrection of Jesus was solid proof that he was who is was and that he had given us his spirit to live like him and that one day we too will rise like him!

So, while the date chosen to celebrate Easter itself may be a man-made thing, the event that it celebrates is biblical, factual, and necessary for Christians to celebrate.

In fact, the Bible tells us to remember the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ in several places. One example is found in Luke 22:19, where Jesus says, "This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me." This verse refers to the Last Supper, which was a meal that Jesus shared with his disciples on the night before his crucifixion. During this meal, Jesus instituted the practice of Communion(Fellowship), which is a way for Christians to remember His sacrifice.

Another example is found in 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, where Paul writes, "For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, 'This is my body which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.' In the same way, also he took the cup, after supper, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.' For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes."

From these verses, we know the resurrection of Jesus is something that should be celebrated often! A practice of fellowship with the brethren should always be a moment to put to remembrance the sacrifice of the body of JESUS and his resurrection from the dead!

These verses show us that Christians are commanded to remember the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ often. While the exact date of Easter may be disputed, the fact that Christians are called to remember this event is not.

In conclusion, while some people may argue that Easter is a man-made tradition, the event that it celebrates—the resurrection of Jesus Christ—is essential to the Christian faith. The Bible tells us to remember this event often through communion, and without it, Christianity would have no basis. So, as Christians, it is important for us to remember and celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, whether it is on Easter or any other day of the year.

In the next blog post we will go into more detail!