Christianity and Easter: the media version

We have come to associate Easter with Christianity, though before Christ, Easter was a pagan event.

Media coverage of Easter is sad. Each year the public is misled by a gigantic watering-down - via our TV screens - of true Christianity. Especially in Australia where this writer lives.

The TV images show churches with 30 feet high (or higher) ceilings, much ornate decoration, while those officiating dress in flowing robes and perform powerless religious ritual that is far removed from the Christianity Jesus taught and practised.

Such mainline media “Christianity” can be likened to what the Bible calls “having a form of godliness but denying the power thereof.” (2 Timothy 3:5). It is lacking Holy Spirit power.

No wonder people don’t want to attend church when they look at the Easter TV coverage.

Jesus showed the power of God, and so did the disciples, then the apostles after Jesus’ resurrection and ascension. Those He left behind did the ministry of Jesus. They too preached the gospel powerfully, passionately, healed the sick, cast out demons, and even raised the dead. Such things are happening even in this twenty-first century. Just one person given up by the doctors but healed in Jesus’ name - and there are many - helps people to believe that Jesus rose from the tomb.

Miracles aside, why doesn’t the media show a different, true picture? Show believers clapping, singing, jumping, praising God joyfully. That happens in many churches today.

There are assemblies in Australia as well as the US where thousands turn up for one meeting – often in an enormous renovated warehouse; where the pastor is dressed casually.

Television companies, why not make some video clips of those and put them on at Easter? Why do we have to suffer the same old same old year after year?

The TV misrepresentation of Christianity is like showing a village in New England and implying to everyone it is Manhattan.

What Easter signifies is Jesus crucified, dead, buried and risen from the grave on the third day. He did it to show that His prediction (prior to the crucifixion) about resurrection wasn’t just talk.

The Bible says that Jesus’ shed blood provides forgiveness of sins (Ephesians 1:7). Faith in Him brings eternal life (John 3:16) but those who do not believe have the wrath of God upon them (John 3:36). Jesus Himself says: “I am the way, the truth and the life; no-one comes to the Father except by Me” (John 14:6). There is no other way of getting to heaven.