This is an expanded version of our Easter Unit Study. See resources included in this unit study on our Pinterest Board and Amazon Store.

Our joyful celebration of the Lord's resurrection provides the opportunity for us to:

•  Teach our children the heart of the Gospel so that they will thoroughly and accurately understand this most important doctrine.

•  Proclaim to the world the death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ — and salvation through faith in Him.

•  Remember, reflect on, and appreciate what the Lord has done for us — then thank and praise Him!

Three Ways To Use This Unit Study

A variety of activities can enrich your teaching, contemplation, and proclamation of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ – both before and after Easter.

 •  Unit Study.  Substitute this study for your regular studies to provide a break and focus on the resurrection of our Lord.

Optional:  Continue math work and any other basic subject that needs daily attention.

 •  Bible Study/Devotionals.  Use the Scripture portions for your family's daily Bible and devotional time.

 •  Supplemental Studies.  Pick and choose any activity to enrich your family.

May the Lord bless you and your family for His glory.

Learning Activities for Each Day
(Use for Days 1-5)

Include the following activities in each of day of The Teaching Home's 5-Day Easter Unit Study (in right column).

Bible Reading and Study

Read notes in your Bible, or from a Bible handbook, and discuss the selected passages using who, what, where, when, why, and how questions for comprehension and understanding.

A Harmony of the Story of Jesus

Most of the Scriptures listed by topic for each day are taken from "A Harmony of the Story of Jesus" with the Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John accounts rearranged by subject and approximate chronological order.  Passages from each book are separate and follow in order of the four gospels.  The J.B. Phillips "Translation" (actually a paraphrase in modern English) is used, making it easier for young children to understand.

The Fourfold Gospel

"The Fourfold Gospel," (or "A Harmony of the Four Gospels"), is a complete chronology of the life of Christ.  It is divided into titled sections and sub-divisions, with commentary (helpful explanations, Greek word meanings, historical information, comparison of Scriptures, etc.) injected in the text.  This is a little harder to follow (but offers more study aids) as it combines all four gospels together with extensive notes (scripture is in bold, interspersed notes are not in bold).

Prophecy Fulfilled

The Scriptures listed are from "Messiah Revealed."

See another site, "Prophecies Fulfilled by Jesus Christ, Messiah."

Bible Memory

Choose a verse from the day's reading or one of the suggested verses.

Vocabulary and Spelling

Learn the meaning and spelling of words taken from the daily Bible reading and study.

We have linked these words to 1828 edition of Webster's American Dictionary of the English Language, Dictionary.com, or Easton's 1897 Bible Dictionary.

Reading

Have your children (even beginning readers, with help) read some of the Bible reading and study references directly from the Bible.

Writing and Penmanship

•  Ask your children to write 1-5 paragraphs (depending on their ability) on a topic of study for the day.

•  Assign a portion of Scripture or your memory verse for your child to write out.

•  Use writing and penmanship skills to make banners, cards, tracts, etc. (see "Evangelism" listings for each day).

Day 1:  Christ's Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem

How To Use The Material for This Day

See notes for "Learning Activities for Each Day" (above) for information on how to use the material (below) for these areas of learning:
•  Bible Reading, Study, and Memory
•  Reading
•  Writing and Penmanship

Bible Reading and Study

•  Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem
Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-44; John 12:12-19

•  Cleansing the Temple
Matthew 21:12-17; Mark 11:15-19; Luke 19:45-48

•  Jesus Teaches about His Death and Resurrection
Matthew 16:21-23; 17:22-23; 20:17-19; 26:1-2
Mark 8:31-33; 9:30-32; 10:32-34
Luke 9:22; 9:43b-45; 18:31-34

•  Jesus' Anointing at Bethany
Matthew 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-9; John 12:1-8

 •  A Harmony of the Story of Jesus:
The Final Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem

 •  The Fourfold Gospel (with notes):
Jesus' Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem

Bible Prophecy Fulfilled

(References below are Prediction / Fulfillment.)

•  Triumphal Entry
Psalm 8:2 / Matthew 21:15-16
Zechariah 9:9a/ Matthew 21:8-10
Zechariah 9:9b / John 12:12-13
Zechariah 9:9f / Matthew 21:6-9

Major Concept

Christ's Purpose in Coming to Earth

Isaiah 53:5-12, 59:15-16a; Matthew 20:28; Luke 23:33, 46; John 1:29; 6:40; 1 John 2:2

Bible Memory

John 1:29; John 6:40

Vocabulary and Spelling

Disciples, triumphal, anoint, temple, Messiah.

•  "Isn't Easter a Pagan Holiday?" and other articles.

•  "Is the word 'Easter' Mentioned in the Bible?"

Music

"Messiah" by George Frideric Handel

Handel's Oratorio "Messiah" speaks of Christ's life, death, and resurrection.

•  Listen to Handel's "Messiah" online.  This two-hour production is broken up into three parts and includes some commentary and the beginning, in the middle, and at the end.

•  As you listen, follow the libretto (words) of "Messiah" and the Scriptures from which they were taken.  You can pause the music between pieces to look up and read the Scripture portion for the next song.

•  Get free sheet music for orchestra parts for the "Hallelujah Chorus."

•  Buy a low-cost MP3 download of Handel's Messiah (Golden Classics) by the London Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir.

•  Or buy the DVD, Handel's Messiah (250th Anniversary Performance) plus "For Ever and Ever," a documentary on "Messiah" with an accompanying booklet.  This 1992 performance of Handel's great masterpiece was filmed at the Point Theatre, Dublin on the 250th anniversary of the work's premiere, which took place in Dublin on April 13, 1712.

Geography

•  On maps of Jerusalem and the Holy Land locate the following (possible) locations: East Gate, Herod's Temple, Golgotha, Garden Tomb, Garden of Gethsemane, Mount of Olives, Upper Room, Herod's Palace.  (For more Bible maps see www.bible-history.com/maps.)

•  See Early Maps and Models of Jerusalem.

•  See a map of the probable route that Jesus took after the Last Supper in the Upper Room.

•  See an "Outline of the Story of Jesus" using maps.

History / Geography

View "Behind the Easter Story" Videos.

Hosts Mart DeHaan and Jimmy DeYoung retrace the footsteps of Jesus from His triumphal entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday to His victorious resurrection on Easter morning.

Using a remarkable limestone model of Jerusalem, they give you a unique look at the city as it was then, visit the actual locations in and around Jerusalem, and follow the path of Jesus step by step.  Part 1 and Part 2 (26 min. each)

Drama / Video

Watch the full two-hour "Jesus" film online.  Christian Answers says, "This film was made entirely in Israel with a cast of over 5,000 Israelis and Arabs.  With a script taken entirely from the book of Luke, this is clearly one of the most accurate Bible dramas ever produced."

Or watch the children's version, "The Story of Jesus for Children."

The "Jesus" film has been translated into more than 1,120 languages, with a new language being added nearly every week.  More than 3.8 million persons each year have indicated a decision to follow Christ after watching this film.  You can donate to this evangelistic project at www.jesusfilm.org.

Evangelism / Art & Crafts / Poetry Writing

Greeting Cards

A greeting card is a way to show thoughtfulness and love, as well as furnish an opportunity to witness at this time.

 •  Find detailed instructions to make elegant cards using a variety of materials and techniques at cardinspirations.

•  Write and include a poem about Christ's death and resurrection and its meaning to you. See poetry-writing instruction and tips.

•  Use your best penmanship to copy the words of a hymn or Bible verse in your handmade cards and greetings.

•  Include gospel tracts or write out a verse in greeting cards to family and neighbors.

E-Mail Cards and Tracts

•  Send an e-card with a Bible verse typed into the message area or a link to an online tract.

•  Online tract, "God's Simple Plan of Salvation," in many languages.

•  "The Empty Tomb" is a Chick Publications graphic art tract online in 17 languages.

•  Crosswalk e-cards.

Activity / Science:  Eggs

Eggs, a symbol of new life, can be enjoyed at Easter time.  They do not need to be associated with "the Easter bunny" or detract from the celebration of Christ's Resurrection.

Resurrection Eggs

This visual/kinesthetic teaching aid uses 12 plastic eggs, each with an object (or picture of an object) and a Bible verse or passage that describes part of the Easter story.

You can buy a set, or make your own.

 •  See directions and printable templates.

 •  Watch a demonstration on YouTube.

 •  Or use an expanded version with 22 eggs, or a preschool version with 6-eggs.

Dyed Eggs

 •  See Martha Stewart's Egg Dyeing 101 and 63 ways to Decorate Easter Eggs.

 •  Home Science Tools teaches your child how to Make Your Own Dye using natural ingredients.

Day 2:  Celebration of Passover
(Last Supper) & Garden of Gethsemane

How To Use The Material for This Day

See notes for "Learning Activities for Each Day" (above) for information on how to use the material (below) for these areas of learning:
•  Bible Reading, Study, and Memory
•  Reading
•  Writing and Penmanship

Bible Reading and Study

•  The Plot To Kill Jesus
Matthew 26:3-5; Mark 14:1-2; Luke 22:1-2; John 11:45-57

•  The Passover Instituted
Exodus 12:1-36

•  Celebrating the Passover / The Last Supper
Matthew 26:17-29; Mark 14:12-25; Luke 22:7-30; John 13:1-30; 1 Corinthians 11:23-25

•  Judas Iscariot's Plans To Betray Christ
Matthew 26:14-16; Mark 14:10-11; Luke 22:3-6

•  In the Garden of Gethsemane
Matthew 26:30-46; Mark 14:26-42; Luke 22:31-46; John 13:31-38; 18:1-2

•  Jesus Betrayed and Arrested
Matthew 26:47-56; Mark 14:43-52; Luke 22:47-54a; John 18:3-12

 •  A Harmony of the Story of Jesus:
The Last Supper
The Last Night Continues and the Garden of Gethsemane
Jesus Is Betrayed and Arrested

 •  The Fourfold Gospel (with notes):
Preparation for Passover
The Paschal Meal. Jesus Washes the Disciples' Feet
Judas' Betrayal and Peter's Denial Foretold
The Lord's Supper Instituted
Going to Gethsemane, and Agony Therein
Jesus Betrayed, Arrested, and Forsaken

Bible Prophecy Fulfilled

(References below are Prediction / Fulfillment.)

•  Messiah Betrayed
Psalm 41:9 / Mark 14:17-18
Zechariah 11:12-13a / Matthew 26:14-15

•  Messiah Abandoned
Psalm 22:11 / Mark 14:50
Psalm 69:20b / Mark 14:33-41

Major Concept

Jesus the Messiah

Read "How do we know that Jesus was the Messiah?"

Bible Memory

John 1:29 / 1 Peter 1:18-19

Vocabulary and Spelling

Passover, communion, betray, a "Judas," arrested.

Music

Continue exploring and listening to Handel's "Messiah" (see Day 1).

Fine Art

The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci

"The Last Supper" is perhaps the most widely recognized piece of religious artwork in the world.

Jesus has just told his followers that he is about to be betrayed by one of them.  We see the reactions of each apostle in this painting.

 •  Read about the painting at ArtBible.info.

 •  Watch a discussion of "The Last Supper" on YouTube.

Christ Typified in the Passover

 •  Have a Family Seder Meal.  This version has been shortened, simplified, and adapted so that families can have a sense of the ceremony.

 •  Order "A Christian Passover Seder" from Doorposts, or download a Kindle edition eBook from Amazon.com.

•  Read the "Introduction to a Christian Seder," with an explanation of terms and symbols of the Passover.

•  Print and read a sermon by C.H. Spurgeon, "Christ Our Passover."

•  Order The Miracle of Passover DVD by Zola Levitt or Messianic Passover Haggadah, a guide to observe Passover feast.

Comparative Religions

•  Islam: Find out what Islam teaches about the crucifixion.

•  Read what the Catholic church teaches about the "Sacrifice of the Mass."

Drama / Video

"God's Story" is a visual exploration of God's revelations in chronological order.  Start at the home page to select language (27 available).  Then you can read the copy online, view the video, or listen to audio only.

•  The Betrayal and Crucifixion.

•  Resurrection to Eternity.

Evangelism / Writing

Tracts and Gospel of John

Consider writing your own tract including a short personal testimony and the Gospel.

•  Read "How To Write a Tract."

•  You may use or include (copyright free) "God's Plan of Salvation."

Obtain a supply of gospel tracts to hand out at this season and throughout the year.

•  Good News & Crossway

•  "God's Simple Plan of Salvation" in 21 languages.  Also read the inspiring story of the author of this tract, Dr. Ford Porter.

Include a Scripture portion, or the Gospel of John, with your greetings cards throughout the year.

•  The Pocket Testament League offers copies of the Gospel of John with different cover designs and translations (English, Spanish, Chinese). 1-866-626-8106.

How To Use The Material for This Day

See notes for "Learning Activities for Each Day" (above) for information on how to use the material (below) for these areas of learning:
•  Bible Reading, Study, and Memory
•  Reading
•  Writing and Penmanship

Bible Reading and Study

•  Jesus Tried before Jewish Authorities; Peter's Denial
Matthew 26:57-27:2; Mark 14:53-15:1; Luke 22:54b-23:1; John 18:13-28

•  Judas Iscariot Commits Suicide
Matthew 27:3-10; Acts 1:18-19

•  Jesus before Pontius Pilate; the Sentence
Matthew 27:11-26; Mark 15:2-15; Luke 23:2-25; John 18:29-19:16a

•  Jesus Ill-Treated and Tortured
Matthew 26:67-68, 27:26b-31; Mark 14:64b-65, 15:15b-20; Luke 22:63-65; John 19:1-3

 •  A Harmony of the Story of Jesus:
Jesus Is Tried before the Jewish Authorities; Peter Betrays Him
Jesus before the Roman Pontius Pilate; the Sentence
Jesus Is Ill-treated and Tortured

 •  The Fourfold Gospel (with notes):
First Stage of Jewish Trial; Examination by Annas
Second Stage of Jewish Trial; Jesus Condemned by Caiaphas
     and the Sanhedrin
Peter Thrice Denies the Lord
Third Stage of Jewish Trial; Jesus Formally Condemned
     by the Sanhedrin, and Led to Pilate
First Stage of the Roman Trial; Jesus Before Pilate for the
     First Time
Second Stage of the Roman Trial; Jesus Before Herod Antipas
Third Stage of the Roman Trial; Pilate Reluctantly Sentences
     Him to Crucifixion

Bible Prophecy Fulfilled

(References below are Prediction / Fulfillment.)

•  The Messiah Rejected
Isaiah 6:9-10a / John 12:37-40
Isaiah 49:4a / Luke 19:41-42
Isaiah 53:3b / Matthew 27:21-23
Isaiah 49:4b / John 5:43
Psalm 69:8a / John 1:11
Zechariah 11:12-13b / Matthew 26:14-15

•  Messiah Judged
Psalm 109:2 / John 18:29-30
Isaiah 53:8b / John 18:13-22
Isaiah 53:7b / Matthew 27:12-14
Isaiah 53:9b / Mark 15:3

Major Concept

Why Jesus Needed To Die

John 1:7, and "What about the death and resurrection of Christ was important and vital to Christianity?" with additional Scripture.

Bible Memory

Isaiah 53:6

Vocabulary and Spelling

Sanhedrin, Pharisees, High Priest, blasphemy, denial.

Music

Continue exploring and listening to Handel's "Messiah" (see Day 1).

Literature

 •  Read free historical fiction eBook, Tor: A Street Boy of Jerusalem written by Florence Morse Kingsley.

Drama / Video

Order or rent, and watch these movies:

•  The Fourth Wise Man.  Read review.

•  Word for word Scripture:  Visual Bible Gospel of Matthew (4.4 hours) or The Gospel of John (3 hours).  Read review of The Gospel of John.

History

Refer to a Christian history textbook (or the curriculum that you are using) and read about the Roman world in which Jesus lived.

•  Explore the many links to information on Ancient Rome at bible-history.com.

Evangelism / Art & Crafts

Outside Banners and Window Signs

Let your neighbors and those passing by know that you celebrate the resurrection of our Lord.

•  Make a banner or inside window sign with fabric, butcher paper, poster board, etc.

•  Signs can say, "Our Redeemer Lives!," "He Is Risen!," "Our Savior Is Alive!," or "Hallelujah, Christ Arose!" See examples.

 •  Also see free Easter printables and instructions on how to make "He Is Risen" paper Easter banner.

How To Use The Material for This Day

See notes for "Learning Activities for Each Day" (above) for information on how to use the material (below) for these areas of learning:
•  Bible Reading, Study, and Memory
•  Reading
•  Writing and Penmanship

Bible Reading and Study

•  Christ's Crucifixion and Death
Matthew 27:32-50; Mark 15:21-37; Luke 23:26-46; John 19:16b-30

•  Supernatural Events as Jesus Dies
Matthew 27:45,51-53; Mark 15:33,38; Luke 23:44-45

•  People at the Crucifixion
Matthew 27:54-56; Mark 15:39-41; Luke 23:47-49; John 19:25-26a

•  Christ's Burial
Matthew 27:57-66; Mark 15:42-47; Luke 23:50-56; John 19:31-42

 •  A Harmony of the Story of Jesus:
His Crucifixion and Death
Supernatural event as Jesus dies
His Burial

 •  The Fourfold Gospel (with notes):
On the Way to the Cross
Jesus Crucified and Reviled; His Three Sayings During First
     Three Hours
Darkness Three Hours; After Four More Sayings; Jesus Expires; Strange Events Attending His Death
Jesus Found to Be Dead; His Body Buried and Guarded
     in the Tomb

Bible Prophecy Fulfilled

(References below are Prediction / Fulfillment.)

•  Place of Crucifixion
Genesis 22:14 / Luke 23:33
Isaiah 53:12c / Luke 23:32

•  Events during Crucifixion
Psalm 22:16c / Matthew 27:38
Psalm 109:4 / Luke 23:34
Psalm 69:20-21a / Matthew 27:34
Psalm 22:18a / John 19:23-24
Psalm 22:18b / John 19:23-24

•  Mocked by People
Psalm 22:17b / Luke 23:35
Psalm 22:7 / Matthew 27:39
Psalm 109:25 / Mark 15:29-30
Psalm 22:8 / Matthew 27:41-43

•  On the Cross
Psalm 22:14b / Matthew 27:35
Psalm 22:1a / Matthew 27:46
Psalm 22:1b / Mark 15:34
Psalm 22:15a / John 19:28

•  Messiah's Death
Zechariah 13:7b / Matthew 27:35
Psalm 22:17a / John 19:32-33
Zechariah 12:10a / John 19:34-37
Psalm 22:14a / John 19:34

Major Concept

The Importance of Jesus' Resurrection

Read 1 Corinthians 15:12-19 and the "Resurrection of Christ" with Scriptures included.

Bible Memory

1 Corinthians 15:3-5; John 3:16

Vocabulary and Spelling

Crucify, myrrh, Golgotha, transgressors, mocking, tomb.

Fine Art

"Raising the Cross" by Rembrandt

 •  See this painting and read a insightful commentary by Matthew Barrett:

". . . notice in the painting that there is a man at the feet of Jesus wearing a blue painter's beret.  Obviously this man is not from the first century.  And yet, there he stands, lifting the cross with the others.  Who is this man?  Indeed, it is Rembrandt himself!  In a way, it is a self-portrait.

"Why would Rembrandt place himself at the feet of Jesus as he is being hoisted up and crucified?  For no other reason than to tell the world that Rembrandt is a sinner and it was his sins, like the rest of mankind, which sent Christ to the cross."

Music

"Hallelujah! What a Savior!"

Words and music by Philip P. Bliss. Become acquainted with this great hymn of the faith and learn at least the first verse. See words, hear the music, read the story, and print music.

History

•  Explore the question: "Was Jesus crucified on Friday or Wednesday?"

•  What do B.C. and A.D. stand for?  Why is B.C. being changed to B.C.E. and A.D. changed to C.E.?  Read one view here and another view here.

Science

"The Science of the Crucifixion"

Have your older students read one or two of the following (not appropriate for young children).

 •  "How did Jesus Christ die?"

 •  "The Science of the Crucifixion"

 •  "A Physician Testifies About the Crucifixion"

Drama / Audio

Read and/or listen to "The Twelve Voices of Easter" online.  Each "voice" gives a perceptive of one of 12 characters involved in the Easter story.

Evangelism

Giving Gifts

Include a greeting card, tract, and/or Gospel of John in thoughtful greetings such as:

•  A baked gift to neighbors.

•  Gifts to shut-ins.  See "Top Ten Gift Ideas for a Friend in a Nursing Home."

•  Instead of giving children Easter baskets, give a new Bible (if needed), Scripture bookmark, prayer journal, or something that will encourage their spiritual life.

 •  See how to make Wordless Book crafts such as booklets, bracelets, the Jelly Bean Prayer, and more.

Activity:  Hot Cross Buns

Make Hot Cross Buns for Good Friday.

This round, rich, sweet, yeast bun is traditionally served on Good Friday.

The buns include currants, raisins and/or candied fruit and have a cross of icing on the top.

 •  Get a recipe and watch a teaching video at JoyofBaking.com.

These Easter treats make a nice gift for your neighbors – along with a gospel tract!

How To Use The Material for This Day

See notes for "Learning Activities for Each Day" (above) for information on how to use the material (below) for these areas of learning:
•  Bible Reading, Study, and Memory
•  Reading
•  Writing and Penmanship

Bible Reading and Study

•  The Empty Tomb
Matthew 28:1-8,11-15; Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:1-13

•  The Resurrection and Appearances to Disciples
Matthew 28:9-10,16-17; Mark 16:9-14; Luke 24:13-44; John 20:14-21:14; Acts 1:1-5; 1 Corinthians 15:3-8

•  Christ's Commission
Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-18; Luke 24:45-50; John 21:15-23; Acts 1:6-8

•  The Ascension
Mark 16:19-20; Luke 24:51-53; Acts 1:9-11

 •  A Harmony of the Story of Jesus:
The Resurrection and Ascension
Appearances of Jesus after His resurrection
The empty tomb
Resurrection appearances of Jesus
Commission to preach the Gospel
Jesus ascends to Heaven
Epilogue to the Gospels

 •  The Fourfold Gospel (with notes):
Angels Announce the Resurrection to Certain Women; Peter and John Enter the Empty Tomb
First and Second Appearances of the Risen Christ; The Resurrection Reported to the Apostles
Some of the Guards Report to the Jewish Rulers
Third and Fourth Appearances of Jesus
Fifth Appearance of Jesus
Sixth Appearance of Jesus
Seventh Appearance of Jesus
Eight Appearance of Jesus
The Great Commission Given
Ninth and Tenth Appearances of Jesus
The Ascension

Bible Prophecy Fulfilled

(References below are Prediction / Fulfillment.)

•  Resurrection of the Messiah
Psalm 16:8-10b / Acts 13:35-37
Psalm 16:8-10a / Matthew 28:6
Isaiah 53:10c / Mark 16:16

•  Ascension of the Messiah
Psalm 68:18a / Luke 24:51
Daniel 7:13-14a / Acts 1:9-11

Major Concept

Personal Application

Have I personally received the benefit of Jesus Christ's death, burial, and resurrection?

 •  See "The Good News of the Holidays" below.

Bible Memory

1 Corinthians 15:3-5; Ephesians 2:8-9

Vocabulary and Spelling

Resurrection, appear, commission, ascension.

Music

"Christ, the Lord, Is Risen Today"

Words written by Charles Wesley in 1739. Become acquainted with this great hymn of the faith and learn at least the first verse (see words below).

•  Print the piano music.

Apologetics

Stimulate your older children to think by examining and discussing one or more of these articles.

•  "Evidence for the Resurrection" by Josh McDowell

•  "Did the Resurrection Really Happen?" by Dr. Tommy Mitchell, AiG-U.S.

•  "10 Reasons To Believe Christ Rose from the Dead"

•  "Beyond Blind Faith" by Paul E. Little

Drama / Video / Skit

Video: The Hope

•  View "The Hope," a free 80-minute online video of God's redemptive story from beginning to end (or just chapters 10-11).

This presentation lays out the entire Grand Plan layed out in the Bible.  Starting in Genesis, "The Hope" visually teaches 36 key events of the Scriptures:  Read a review.

Skit

•  Read and act out the dramatic sketch "A Press Conference after the Resurrection."

Video: Ben-Hur

 •  Rent or buy the movie, Ben-Hur, classic adaptation of the Lew Wallace story of Palestine in the time of Christ.

Evangelism

Invite Someone to Church
Or Look for a Visitor to Befriend at Church

Many people will go to church on Easter Sunday that would not at any other time. Take advantage of this to invite family, friends, or neighbors to attend with you (and hear the gospel message). Consider some of the following:

•  Send a hand-written letter of invitation and follow up with a telephone call.

•  Offer a ride.

•  Invite them to dinner with you after the service.

•  Pray before and after that they will be saved or renew their commitment to the Lord.

Activity:  Resurrection Cookies & Rolls

Resurrection Cookies

Make Resurrection Cookies for Sunday morning.

These are to be made the evening before Easter, and are easy to make with young children.

Each ingredient represents a part of the Easter story, along with a Bible verse or passage.

Cookies are "sealed" in a warmed (but turned-off) oven overnight, and provide an object lesson on Easter morning – they are hollow, as the tomb was empty!

 •  Get directions with accompanying explanations at Christ-Centered Easter Activities for Your Family.

Resurrection Rolls

Resurrection rolls are a great treat to make with your little ones to share the meaning of Easter.  They are easily made with a can of crescent roll dough, marshmallows, butter, and cinnamon sugar.

 •  See step-by-step instructions with accompanying photos online here.

Sunrise Service

If your church does not have an Easter sunrise service, your family can have one of your own – or invite another family to join you.

 •  See suggestions on Annie's "Family Easter Sunrise Service" Page.

Easter Greeting

Greet each other with "Alleluia, the Lord is risen!"

And answer, "He is risen indeed!"

The spiritual significance of Christmas and Easter is the very essence of the Gospel – the Good News of God's love and gift of eternal life through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Christmas:
The Incarnation of Jesus Christ

Jesus is God's gift of love, celebrated at Christmas.

"But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord’" (Luke 2:10, 11).

Because of the incarnation, Jesus is fully God and fully man.

God the Father calls His Son "God" in Hebrews 1:8 "But of the Son He says, ‘Your throne, O God, is forever and ever, and the righteous scepter is the scepter of His kingdom.’"

At the same time Christ is fully man. "By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God" (I John 4:3).

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

Easter:
The Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ

The gospel includes four historical facts (celebrated at Good Friday and Easter) concerning the God-man Christ Jesus, the object of saving faith.

"Now I make known to you, brethren, the gospel, . . . that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that He appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. After that He appeared to more than five hundred brethren at one time" (I Corinthians 15:1-6).

The death of Jesus Christ in our place is God's only provision for man's sin. "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). "Jesus, because of the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, so that by the grace of God He might taste death for everyone" (Hebrews 2:9).

The burial testified that His body was really dead. "And Joseph took the body . . . and laid it in his own new tomb . . . and he rolled a large stone against the entrance of the tomb" (Matthew 27:59-60).

"He (Jesus Christ) was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification" (Romans 4:25).

The record that Jesus was seen by many assures us that the resurrection was genuine. "To these He also presented Himself alive, after His suffering, by many convincing proofs" (Acts 1:3).

God's gift of forgiveness and eternal life is yours when you accept it as an undeserved gift by faith as you personally receive Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord.

"For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast" (Ephesians 2:8,9).

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you" (I Peter 1:3-4).

For 31 years The Teaching Home has provided families information, inspiration, and encouragement from a distinctively Christian perspective.

Co-Editors, Sue Welch and Cindy Short, are sisters and veteran homeschoolers.

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