Why Seventh-day Adventists Don't Celebrate Easter

Seventh-day Adventists do not celebrate Easter because they view the yearly observance as a contradiction to the biblical practice of recognizing Christ's resurrection through the weekly Sabbath and the correct application of the memorial of His risingAMS March 11, 1897, page 145.3.

The Nature of Yearly Observances

• Logical Consistency: Easter is observed by many as a yearly commemoration of the resurrection, much like a birthday or Independence Day, which by definition recur only once a yearAMS March 11, 1897, page 145.3.

• Weekly Contradiction: There is a logical inconsistency when groups observe the first day of every week to honor the resurrection while simultaneously holding a special yearly Easter service for the same eventAMS March 11, 1897, page 145.3.

• Biblical Authority: The doctrinal foundation of the faith is built upon a faithful and strict study of the Word of God rather than human traditionEW xxiii.2+1.

Honoring the Resurrection

While the resurrection is a cornerstone of faith, the way it is honored must align with the "present truth" that separates the church from worldly traditionsPaM 29.1+1.

• The Seventh-day Sabbath: God made known His holy Sabbath to be a sign of His creative and redemptive power Nehemiah 9:14.

• Avoiding Tradition: Following traditions that are not grounded in the Word of God can lead to a "quagmire" of superstitions and the renunciation of pure truthRCASDA 112.2.

• The True High Priest: Focus is placed on the current work of Christ as our High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary, rather than on liturgical holidays Hebrews 8:1-2ARSH February 21, 1856, page 168.19.

Testing Every Spirit

The community is encouraged to be careful with "new notions" or traditional celebrations that do not pass the test of Scripture1MR 303.3. We must test the spirits to see whether they are of God, as many false teachings have gone out into the world 1 John 4:1GP 37.3. Genuine Christianity is demonstrated through keeping the commandments of God and having the faith of Jesus, rather than through outward festivals 1 John 2:3-5+1ARSH June 24, 1862, page 31.3.

It is my hope that this clarifies the focus on biblical consistency and the desire to honor God according to His specific instructions 🕊️.