On Easter, Jesus rose from the dead, fulfilling prophecies and demonstrating His divine power over sin and death—an event that forms the foundation of Christian faith. His resurrection marked the triumph of life over death and brought hope of eternal life to all believers. From the discovery of the empty tomb by Mary Magdalene to Jesus’ personal appearances to His disciples and others, Easter Sunday was filled with moments that confirmed He was alive and victorious. These encounters weren’t only miraculous—they were deeply personal, restoring faith, offering peace, and commissioning His followers to spread the Gospel.
Jesus’ actions on Easter didn’t end with His resurrection. He appeared to His followers, comforted them, taught them, and reaffirmed the mission they were to carry forward. The resurrection ignited the birth of the Christian Church and continues to be the reason Christians around the world celebrate Easter with joy and reflection. Understanding what Jesus did on this day helps us grasp the depth of God’s love and the hope found in Christ. Keep reading to explore each moment in more detail and discover how the first Easter still shapes lives today.
Easter is a pivotal moment in Christianity, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. This event is central to Christian faith, representing victory over death and the promise of eternal life. Understanding what Jesus did on Easter can deepen your appreciation for this profound celebration.
The Significance of Easter
Before diving into the events of Easter, it’s essential to grasp its significance. Easter commemorates Jesus’ resurrection, which is the cornerstone of Christian belief. The resurrection demonstrates Jesus’ divinity and the fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation. As stated in 1 Corinthians 15:14, “And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.”
The Events Leading Up to Easter
Good Friday: The Crucifixion
Easter’s story begins with Good Friday, the day Jesus was crucified. After a night of trials, Jesus was sentenced to death by Pontius Pilate. He was mocked, beaten, and forced to carry His cross to Golgotha, where He was crucified. The Gospels detail His suffering, emphasizing His sacrifice for humanity’s sins. Luke 23:46 recounts Jesus’ final moments: “Jesus called out with a loud voice, ‘Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.’ When he had said this, he breathed his last.”
Holy Saturday: The Burial
After Jesus’ death, His body was taken down from the cross and placed in a tomb donated by Joseph of Arimathea. A large stone was rolled in front of the entrance, and guards were posted to prevent anyone from tampering with the body. This day, known as Holy Saturday, was a time of mourning for Jesus’ followers.
Easter Sunday: The Resurrection
The Empty Tomb
On the third day after Jesus’ crucifixion, Mary Magdalene and other women went to the tomb to anoint His body with spices. They found the stone rolled away and the tomb empty. An angel appeared to them, saying, “He is not here; He has risen, just as He said. Come and see the place where he lay” (Matthew 28:6).
Jesus’ Appearances
To Mary Magdalene
Mary Magdalene was the first to see the risen Jesus. Initially, she didn’t recognize Him, mistaking Him for the gardener. When Jesus called her by name, she realized who He was. This personal encounter highlights Jesus’ love and care for His followers.
To the Disciples
Jesus appeared to His disciples multiple times after His resurrection. On the evening of Easter Sunday, He appeared to them as they were gathered in a locked room, fearful of the Jewish leaders. Jesus showed them His wounds and said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you” (John 20:21). This appearance reassured the disciples of His resurrection and their mission.
The Road to Emmaus
Another significant appearance happened on the road to Emmaus. Two disciples were walking to the village of Emmaus, discussing the recent events. Jesus joined them, but they didn’t recognize Him. He explained the Scriptures concerning Himself, and when He broke bread with them, their eyes were opened, and they recognized Him. This story, found in Luke 24:13-35, underscores the importance of understanding Scripture and Jesus’ fulfillment of prophecy.
The Impact of the Resurrection
Affirmation of Faith
The resurrection affirmed the disciples’ faith and transformed them from fearful followers into bold proclaimers of the Gospel. They witnessed Jesus’ power over death, giving them confidence to spread His teachings.
The Birth of the Church
Easter also marks the beginning of the Christian Church. Jesus’ resurrection is the foundation upon which Christianity is built. The early Church grew rapidly as the apostles shared the news of Jesus’ victory over death. Acts 2:24 states, “But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.”
Hope for Believers
For believers, the resurrection offers hope and assurance of eternal life. Jesus’ victory over death means that death is not the end. As Jesus said in John 11:25-26, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.”
Celebrating Easter Today
Church Services
Christians around the world celebrate Easter with special church services. These services often include joyous music, scripture readings, and sermons focused on the resurrection. The atmosphere is one of celebration and thanksgiving.
Traditions and Symbols
Many Easter traditions and symbols reflect the resurrection theme. The Easter egg, for example, symbolizes new life. Just as a chick hatches from an egg, Jesus emerged from the tomb. Other symbols include the lily, representing purity and new beginnings, and the Paschal candle, symbolizing the light of Christ.
Personal Reflection
Easter is also a time for personal reflection and renewal of faith. Many Christians spend time in prayer, thanking God for His sacrifice and resurrection. It’s an opportunity to reaffirm your commitment to living a life that honors Jesus’ teachings.
Conclusion
Understanding what Jesus did on Easter enhances your appreciation of this pivotal event. From His crucifixion on Good Friday to His resurrection on Easter Sunday, Jesus’ actions demonstrated His love, power, and fulfillment of God’s promise. As you celebrate Easter, remember the significance of the resurrection and the hope it brings to believers. Jesus’ victory over death assures us of eternal life and empowers us to live boldly in faith.
FAQs: What Did Jesus Do on Easter?
What is Easter?
Easter is a Christian holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It’s considered the most important and joyous event in the Christian calendar.
Why is Easter significant?
Easter is significant because it marks Jesus’ victory over death, affirming His divinity and the fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation. The resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian faith, offering believers the hope of eternal life.
What happened on Good Friday?
Good Friday is the day Jesus was crucified. He was sentenced to death by Pontius Pilate, mocked, beaten, and forced to carry His cross to Golgotha, where He was crucified and died. This day commemorates Jesus’ sacrifice for humanity’s sins.
What is Holy Saturday?
Holy Saturday is the day after Good Friday, when Jesus’ body lay in the tomb. It was a day of mourning and reflection for Jesus’ followers as they awaited His promised resurrection.
What happened on Easter Sunday?
On Easter Sunday, Jesus rose from the dead. Women who went to His tomb found it empty and were told by an angel that He had risen. Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene and His disciples, confirming His resurrection.
Who was the first to see the risen Jesus?
Mary Magdalene was the first to see the risen Jesus. Initially, she didn’t recognize Him, but when He called her by name, she realized who He was.
What were Jesus’ appearances after His resurrection?
Jesus appeared to His disciples multiple times after His resurrection. He appeared to them in a locked room, reassured them by showing His wounds, and also appeared to two disciples on the road to Emmaus.
Why is the resurrection important for Christians?
The resurrection is crucial because it validates Jesus’ divinity and His teachings. It provides the foundation for Christian faith, promising believers eternal life and victory over death.
How do Christians celebrate Easter?
Christians celebrate Easter with special church services that include music, scripture readings, and sermons focused on the resurrection. Traditions such as Easter eggs, lilies, and the Paschal candle symbolize new life and the light of Christ.
What is the significance of Easter symbols?
Easter symbols like eggs, lilies, and the Paschal candle represent new life, purity, and the light of Christ. The egg symbolizes new life emerging from the tomb, the lily represents purity and new beginnings, and the Paschal candle signifies the light of Christ.
How can I reflect on Easter personally?
Personal reflection during Easter can involve prayer, gratitude for Jesus’ sacrifice, and a renewed commitment to living according to His teachings. It’s a time to remember the significance of the resurrection and the hope it brings.
What impact did Jesus’ resurrection have on His disciples?
Jesus’ resurrection transformed His disciples from fearful followers into bold proclaimers of the Gospel. Witnessing His power over death gave them the confidence to spread His teachings and build the early Christian Church.
How does Easter offer hope to believers?
Easter offers hope by assuring believers of eternal life through Jesus’ victory over death. As Jesus said in John 11:25-26, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.”
If you have more questions or need further clarification, feel free to reach out!
