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Does the Bible Authorize the Observance of Easter? By: Garland M. Robinson |
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Does the Bible Authorize the Observance of Easter? By: Garland M. Robinson |
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Easter represents a convergence of three particular events: the Hebrew passover, the resurrection of Christ, and a pagan festival of Spring. These three events became associated with the unauthorized festival of the resurrection which was celebrated at the time of the Jewish passover.
The council of Nicaea (325 A.D.) decreed Easter should be on Sunday but did not specify which Sunday. It was not until the 7th century that a rule was finally set and adopted as to when Easter would be observed. It was determined to be the first Sunday after the first full moon following the first day of Spring. Using this rule, it could fall anywhere between March 21 and April 25--a period of 35 days.
The observance of Easter as a special holy day is not found in the Bible; therefore, it is the invention of man and will perish along with all of man’s doctrines and works (Matthew 15:8-9). There is no command, no example, or anything implying its observance. There is absolutely NOTHING in Scripture that authorizes its observance with any religious significance. The Bible teaches Christians to observe and commemorate the death of Christ every Sunday (the first day of the week) in the partaking of the Lord’s supper (Acts 20:7; I Corinthians 11:23-26).
The demand of Colossians 3:17 must be ever before our minds: “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus" -- i.e., by his authority. We must only do what Christ has authorized us to do in His Word, the Bible. Since there is no authority to celebrate Easter or any other special time or day in a religious way (Colossians 2:16), then it cannot be done “by faith.” Romans 14:23 says, "Whatsoever is not of faith is sin." Faith comes by hearing God’s Word (Romans 10:17), yet God’s Word does not instruct us to observe Easter. Therefore, it cannot be done in faith. We cannot observe this day with any religious significance because we cannot do so by the authority of Christ.
We will not be judged by what uninspired men have decided through the centuries (John 12:48; Revelation 20:12). As for me and my house, show me in the Bible where it is to be celebrated and I will happily comply!
