Great Sermon! Why do Christians set aside this period to acknowledge Easter as if it's a day designated holy by our Lord? This is not a criticism, but a concern as regarding apostasy & the Whore as mentioned in the Revelation. Here is what Vine says:Easter:
mistranslated "Easter" in Act 12:4, AV, denotes the Passover (RV). The phrase "after the Passover" signifies after the whole festival was at an end. The term "Easter" is not of Christian origin. It is another form of Astarte, one of the titles of the Chaldean goddess, the queen of heaven. The festival of Pasch held by Christians in post-apostolic times was a continuation of the Jewish feast, but was not instituted by Christ, nor was it connected with Lent. From this Pasch the pagan festival of "Easter" was quite distinct and was introduced into the apostate Western religion, as part of the attempt to adapt pagan festivals to Christianity. We are to live as resurrected pilgrims in this life.
To me celebrating this as an annual day of holiness is much like celebrating Christmas. It is tine we preach on living the practical resurrected life. We need to be able to answer questions others have about our holy days. God bless you.