What Easter Misses, Resurrection Sunday Declares

By - Pastor Freddy Cortez, National Capital Bible Church

We welcome you to visit us on Resurrection Sunday either in person or online! More details can be found here.

Resurrection Sunday vs. Easter: A Comparison

Resurrection Sunday	Easter Holiday
Focuses on Christ's bodily resurrection	Focuses on springtime, tradition
Celebrated with gospel preaching and worship	Celebrated with eggs, brunch, pageants
Language is biblical and clear	Language is cultural and often vague
Centers on assurance of eternal life	Often emphasizes seasonal joy
Grounded in Scripture and gospel clarity	Often blended with secular customs

Every spring, the world prepares for what many call “Easter.” Stores fill with candy, baskets, eggs, and bunny decor... But for believers grounded in the Free Grace gospel, this season isn’t about tradition or spring themes—it’s about something far greater: Resurrection Sunday, the day Jesus Christ rose from the grave and secured everlasting life for all who believe.

The Resurrection: Why It Matters

According to 1 Corinthians 15, the resurrection of Jesus is not just a historical detail—it’s the very foundation of the gospel... In Free Grace theology, salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone. But faith must have a trustworthy object. The resurrection of Christ validates His identity as the Son of God and proves that the Father accepted His payment for sin.

The Problem with Easter Confusion

While many churches do use Easter as an opportunity to preach the gospel, the term itself often lacks clarity... In contrast, 'Resurrection Sunday' communicates exactly what we’re celebrating. It lifts the name of Christ, proclaims His victory over death, and directs attention to the core of the gospel.

Free Grace Clarity: Everlasting Life Is a Gift from the Risen Christ

Free Grace theology emphasizes that everlasting life is a gift received once and for all by believing in Jesus Christ... The resurrection affirms this truth: the work is finished, the payment accepted, and the offer stands.

How Should We Celebrate?

While it’s not wrong to enjoy family meals or cultural traditions, believers grounded in grace are encouraged to recenter their celebration around truth... Practical ideas include calling it Resurrection Sunday, reading the Gospel accounts, teaching children about the empty tomb, and singing Christ-centered hymns.

Conclusion

There’s nothing inherently sinful about the word 'Easter,' but it lacks the clarity and power of 'Resurrection Sunday.' If we want the focus to be on Christ and His victory, then let our language reflect it... He is risen. He is risen indeed. And because He lives, we live also (John 14:19).

The Resurrection and Your Eternal Destiny

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is not just a moment in history—it is the foundation of your eternal future. According to Scripture, Jesus didn’t stay in the grave. He rose again, proving that His payment for sin was accepted by the Father. This means that the offer of everlasting life is real, guaranteed, and available right now to anyone who believes in Him.

The most well-known verse in the Bible makes this crystal clear:

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” — John 3:16 (NKJV)

Notice what this verse promises: Everlasting life is given to the one who believes in Jesus. It does not say you must behave, commit, or perform. It simply says: Believe. If you have never placed your trust in Jesus Christ alone for everlasting life, you can do so right now. He died for your sins and rose again—He is alive and offers you life as a free gift. Once received, that gift can never be lost, because Jesus Himself guarantees it (John 10:28).

Resurrection Sunday is a celebration not only of Christ’s victory over death, but also of the believer’s confidence in life everlasting. If you’re unsure of where you stand with God, remember: Jesus finished the work. Simply believe in Him—and you are saved forever.

This post was written by Pastor Freddy Cortez of National Capital Bible Church. If you have questions about this post or Christianity in general, please contact us today!