Where is Easter found in the Bible? This question often arises among Christians who seek to understand the biblical basis for this significant Christian holiday. Easter, also known as Resurrection Sunday, commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, a pivotal event in Christian faith. While the term “Easter” itself is not mentioned in the Bible, its significance and celebration are deeply rooted in the New Testament.
The Bible primarily focuses on the events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion, death, and resurrection. The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John provide detailed accounts of these events. Easter is celebrated as the third day after Jesus’ crucifixion, as recorded in these Gospels. The resurrection of Jesus is considered the cornerstone of Christian faith, and its celebration is rooted in the New Testament.
Let’s delve into the biblical references that lead to the celebration of Easter. The New Testament begins with the birth of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew and the Gospel of Luke. However, the focus quickly shifts to the ministry of Jesus, his teachings, miracles, and the events leading up to his crucifixion.
In the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 26, verse 2, we find the first mention of the Passover celebration, which is closely related to Easter. Passover is a Jewish festival commemorating the Exodus of the Israelites from Egypt, and it is traditionally celebrated during the springtime. Jesus and his disciples celebrated the Passover meal, known as the Last Supper, which is a pivotal event in the New Testament.
After the Last Supper, Jesus was betrayed by Judas Iscariot and arrested. The following day, he was crucified, buried, and remained in the tomb for three days. The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John describe the events surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion and burial. On the third day, as recorded in these Gospels, Jesus rose from the dead, signifying his victory over death and sin.
One of the most significant biblical references to the resurrection is found in the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 28, verse 5-6: “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.”
This event marks the beginning of the Easter celebration. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the central theme of Easter, and it is this event that Christians believe validates Jesus’ claim to be the Son of God and the savior of humanity.
While the term “Easter” is not found in the Bible, its celebration is rooted in the New Testament accounts of Jesus’ crucifixion, death, and resurrection. The biblical references to these events provide the foundation for the Christian faith and the observance of Easter. As Christians around the world gather to celebrate this holy day, they remember the incredible love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who conquered death and offered eternal life to all who believe in him.
