Good Friday, the Friday before Easter, is a significant day for Christians as it marks the solemn remembrance of the torture, crucifixion, and death of Jesus Christ.
While the Bible does not mandate its observance, it is a widely recognized day among believers. Good Friday precedes Easter Sunday and holds a special place in the hearts of Christians worldwide. This significant day marks the end of Holy Week, a solemn period that also includes Palm Sunday and Maundy Thursday.
Good Friday is observed by Christians worldwide as a time of deep contemplation and gratitude for the ultimate sacrifice that was made for all humanity. During this time of reflection, Christians consider the redemptive exchange of the sacrifice of God’s only son for all people (see 2 Corinthians 5:15-21). According to Christian belief, since no person can be considered perfect in their nature, actions, and thoughts, the only way to redeem humanity from their sins is through the blood of Christ, who is believed to be the perfect Son of God.
Christians believe Christ provided a paid-in-full exchange: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved,” per John 3:16-17.
Good Friday is when Christians recognize and appreciate that the sins of humanity put Christ on the cross, but Christ’s love for all kept Him there.
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us,” per Romans 5:8.
This exchange is considered the ultimate act of love: a one-time transaction only made possible by the grace and mercy of Christ. According to Christian belief, when an individual accepts the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, they establish an eternal bond with God, freeing themselves from the bondage of sin and death. This belief is at the heart of the Christian faith. It is important to note that many Christians believe that this transaction does not depend on the merits of the individual or any other person but solely on Christ’s sacrifice.
The story of Christ and how He saves humanity does not end on the cross. Instead, Christians believe that death does not have the final say: believers are raised into a new life with Christ, who was resurrected on the third day after His crucifixion. On the day of Christ’s resurrection, Christians believe that death was defeated and hope was born for all. This triumphant event allowed believers to die in sin and be united with Christ in His resurrection (see Romans 6).
Easter marks the day Jesus Christ rose from the dead and defeated death. This joyous occasion is celebrated every year with great fervor and enthusiasm, as it symbolizes hope and salvation. For those who put their faith in Christ, Christians believe Easter is a time of renewal, reflection, and gratitude for the ultimate sacrifice made on their behalf.
