Why do we celebrate Easter?  

It seems like a simple question. We celebrate Easter because Jesus died for our sins, was buried, and three days later He arose from the dead.  

But why does this matter?

When we reflect on the significance of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection we allow God to mature our faith and deepen our understanding of His love and care for His people. Here are some verses that explain the reasons that Christians celebrate Easter.

Why did Jesus have to die?

We have all sinned (Romans 3:23), deserve the consequences for our sin (Romans 6:23), and need a Savior (Matthew 1:21). God loved us so much that He sent His only Son, Jesus, to die on the cross to rescue us from our sins and to pay the penalty of death we all deserve. Romans 5:8 states, “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” 

Why is the resurrection important?

The answer to this question is found in I Corinthians 15:17 (NLT).  “If Christ has not been raised, then your faith is useless and you are still guilty of your sins.”  When Jesus was resurrected, He demonstrated that death had no power over Him (Romans 6:9) and the punishment for sin was paid.  

Forgiveness of sins brought about by the resurrection allows us to have a personal relationship with God. We no longer have to live in shame or guilt. We can live in hope.

And this is something to celebrate.

Easter is just one opportunity for Christians to celebrate in unity the joy and hope we have because of our resurrected Jesus.

Philippians 2:8-11 (NIV)

And being found in appearance as a man,

    he humbled himself

    by becoming obedient to death—

        even death on a cross!

Therefore God exalted him to the highest place

    and gave him the name that is above every name,

that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,

    in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,

    to the glory of God the Father

. . . . . . . . . . 

Teach your little ones why we celebrate Easter with Clive and Ian in our newest board book, Why Easter?

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Heidi Franz is a devoted wife, momma of four, and the creative force behind ABCJesusLovesMe.com, a popular Preschool Bible Curriculum website. Passionate about teaching the truths of the Bible, she shares her wisdom and experiences on her blog and podcast at ParentingtoImpress.com. Heidi enjoys peanut M&M’s, laughing with her family, and having honest conversations. With a deep desire to encourage and empower, she connects with others through speaking engagements and social media.