Easter is the most important holiday on the Christian calendar. It celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead after his crucifixion. This event is the cornerstone of Christian faith, as the resurrection affirms Christ’s divinity and conquering of sin and death. As we approach Easter, it’s important that Christians prepare our hearts and minds to reflect on the profound meaning of this holiday.
Here are some key Bible passages that are appropriate to read and meditate on in the days leading up to Easter:
Jesus Predicts His Death and Resurrection
“From that time Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised.” (Matthew 16:21)
“And taking the twelve again, he began to tell them what was to happen to him, saying, “See, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death and deliver him over to the Gentiles. And they will mock him and spit on him, and flog him and kill him. And after three days he will rise.” (Mark 10:32-34)
Jesus predicted to his disciples that he would suffer, die, and rise again. Even though they struggled to understand it at the time, this foreshadowing prepared them for the events to come at Easter.
The Last Supper
“And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.” (Luke 22:19-20)
At the Last Supper on the night before his death, Jesus instituted communion as a remembrance of his sacrifice on the cross. Taking communion is still a central part of Christian worship services today.
Jesus Prays in Gethsemane
“And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.” (Matthew 26:39)
After the Last Supper, Jesus went to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. Despite his anguish at what was to come, he surrendered himself to God’s will, providing an example for us to follow in times of trial.
The Crucifixion
“And when they came to the place that is called The Skull, there they crucified him, and the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:33-34a)
The crucifixion was a horrific, painful death. Yet even in his agony, Jesus exemplified grace and forgiveness. His sacrifice made possible the forgiveness of sins for all who believe in him.
The Death and Burial of Jesus
“Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” And having said this he breathed his last. When the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God, saying, “Certainly this man was innocent!” (Luke 23:46, 47)
After his death on the cross, Jesus was laid in a tomb belonging to Joseph of Arimathea, while his disciples and followers grieved. Yet this was not the end…
The Resurrection
“But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel. And as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen.” (Luke 24:1-6a)
On the third day after his crucifixion, Jesus rose from the dead, conquering sin and death and proving his divinity. The empty tomb brought shock, joy, and wonder to Jesus’ followers.
Jesus Appears to His Disciples
“On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord.” (John 20:19-20)
After his resurrection, Jesus appeared to his disciples and others, assuring them he had risen indeed. His appearances removed their doubt and emboldened them to share the good news.
The Great Commission
“And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18-20)
In his final words to the disciples before ascending to heaven, Jesus commanded them to spread the gospel to the world. This mission remains the focus for all Christians today.
Jesus Ascends to Heaven
“And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.” (Acts 1:9-11)
Jesus ascended bodily to heaven, having completed his earthly mission and defeated death. The disciples were assured he would return one day. In the meantime, they had work to do.
These passages give just a glimpse into the monumental events of Easter week. As we reflect on Christ’s suffering, death, resurrection, and ascension, may our hearts be filled with praise, gratitude, and wonder. Easter’s powerful message is that sin, death and despair do not have the final word – Jesus Christ does. And all who put their faith in him can experience redemption and new life.
During the days leading up to Easter Sunday, set aside time to slowly read and meditate on these key passages. Open your heart to what God wants to show you. Consider journaling your thoughts and prayers. Discuss them with other believers. And prepare yourself to celebrate Resurrection Day with joy and thanksgiving for the sacrifice and triumph of our Lord.
He is risen indeed!