Every year, millions around the world observe Lent. Unlike New Year’s, Valentine’s Day,
Every year, millions around the world observe Lent. Unlike New Year’s, Valentine’s Day,

Halloween, Christmas and other popular holidays kept by billions, Lent is generally observed
Halloween, Christmas and other popular holidays kept by billions, Lent is generally observed

by dedicated believers. For Catholics and many Protestants, the start of Lent signals
by dedicated believers. For Catholics and many Protestants, the start of Lent signals

40 days of prayer, self-denial and confession, culminating at Easter.
40 days of prayer, self-denial and confession, culminating at Easter.

But what is the truth of this period? Why is it so widely practiced throughout Christendom?
But what is the truth of this period? Why is it so widely practiced throughout Christendom?

Does God command it? Did Jesus or the original apostles observe it? Did the New Testament
Does God command it? Did Jesus or the original apostles observe it? Did the New Testament

Church? What does the Bible teach about Lent? Prepare to be shocked by the facts from history—and
Church? What does the Bible teach about Lent? Prepare to be shocked by the facts from history—and

God’s Word!
God’s Word!

The World to Come. The Restored Church of God presents David C. Pack. Author of 80 books
The World to Come. The Restored Church of God presents David C. Pack. Author of 80 books

and booklets. Editor-in-chief of The Real Truth magazine. Read by countless and growing
and booklets. Editor-in-chief of The Real Truth magazine. Read by countless and growing

numbers in every nation and territory of the world. In a violent age full of bad news.
numbers in every nation and territory of the world. In a violent age full of bad news.

Answering life’s greatest questions straight from the Bible, and announcing the wonderful
Answering life’s greatest questions straight from the Bible, and announcing the wonderful

good news of the World to Come. And now, David C. Pack.
good news of the World to Come. And now, David C. Pack.

During the Lenten period, which lasts from Ash Wednesday in late winter to Easter, observers
During the Lenten period, which lasts from Ash Wednesday in late winter to Easter, observers

abstain from certain foods or pleasures. Some give up bad habits like smoking or nail biting.
abstain from certain foods or pleasures. Some give up bad habits like smoking or nail biting.

Others abstain from chocolate or a certain flavor of ice cream, keeping the others. Still
Others abstain from chocolate or a certain flavor of ice cream, keeping the others. Still

others try to help the environment by walking to work for 40 days instead of driving, or
others try to help the environment by walking to work for 40 days instead of driving, or

they use Lent as a time for good works. In recent years, many have been encouraged
they use Lent as a time for good works. In recent years, many have been encouraged

to put aside technology—MP3 players, cell phones, text messaging and the Internet. Let’s
to put aside technology—MP3 players, cell phones, text messaging and the Internet. Let’s

see: “The Turin [Italy] diocese is suggesting the faithful not watch television during Lent.
see: “The Turin [Italy] diocese is suggesting the faithful not watch television during Lent.

In the northeastern city of Trento, the church has created a ‘new lifestyles’ calendar
In the northeastern city of Trento, the church has created a ‘new lifestyles’ calendar

with proposals for each week of Lent.” Stopping pleasures and modern devices supposedly
with proposals for each week of Lent.” Stopping pleasures and modern devices supposedly

imitates Jesus’ 40-day fast in the wilderness, helps the believer understand Christ’s suffering
imitates Jesus’ 40-day fast in the wilderness, helps the believer understand Christ’s suffering

and prepares one for Easter. On the surface, this practice appears well-intentioned,
and prepares one for Easter. On the surface, this practice appears well-intentioned,

and adherents seem sincere. But does God approve of it? Does it line up with His Word, the
and adherents seem sincere. But does God approve of it? Does it line up with His Word, the

only source of true spiritual knowledge? God says this to His servants: “The holy scriptures…are
only source of true spiritual knowledge? God says this to His servants: “The holy scriptures…are

able to make you wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture
able to make you wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture

is given by inspiration of God.” Before examining what the Bible says about
is given by inspiration of God.” Before examining what the Bible says about

Lent, let’s look at its customs, history and origin. Notice this: “The real aim of
Lent, let’s look at its customs, history and origin. Notice this: “The real aim of

Lent is, above all else, to prepare men for the celebration of the death and Resurrection
Lent is, above all else, to prepare men for the celebration of the death and Resurrection

of Christ…the better the preparation the more effective the celebration will be. One
of Christ…the better the preparation the more effective the celebration will be. One

can effectively relive the mystery only with purified mind and heart. The purpose of Lent
can effectively relive the mystery only with purified mind and heart. The purpose of Lent

is to provide that purification by weaning men from sin and selfishness through self-denial
is to provide that purification by weaning men from sin and selfishness through self-denial

and prayer, by creating in them the desire to do God’s will and to make His kingdom
and prayer, by creating in them the desire to do God’s will and to make His kingdom

come by making it come first…in their hearts.” Sounds noble, but where did Lent come from?
come by making it come first…in their hearts.” Sounds noble, but where did Lent come from?

How did it become so widely observed by mainstream Christianity?
How did it become so widely observed by mainstream Christianity?

Lent comes from the Anglo-Saxon Lencten, meaning “spring” or “lengthen,” as in days
Lent comes from the Anglo-Saxon Lencten, meaning “spring” or “lengthen,” as in days

lengthening. The practice came from the ancient Babylonian mystery religion. Notice this:
lengthening. The practice came from the ancient Babylonian mystery religion. Notice this:

“The 40 days abstinence of Lent was directly borrowed from the worshippers of the Babylonian
“The 40 days abstinence of Lent was directly borrowed from the worshippers of the Babylonian

goddess…Among the Pagans this Lent seems to have been an indispensable preliminary
goddess…Among the Pagans this Lent seems to have been an indispensable preliminary

to the great annual festival in commemoration of the death and resurrection of Tammuz.”
to the great annual festival in commemoration of the death and resurrection of Tammuz.”

Tammuz was the Babylonian messiah—an early counterfeit of Jesus Christ!
Tammuz was the Babylonian messiah—an early counterfeit of Jesus Christ!

The Bible records ancient Judah worshipping him. Notice: “Then He brought me to the
The Bible records ancient Judah worshipping him. Notice: “Then He brought me to the

door of the gate of the Lord’s house…and, behold, there sat women weeping for Tammuz.”
door of the gate of the Lord’s house…and, behold, there sat women weeping for Tammuz.”

You will see this was an abomination to God! The Feast of Tammuz was usually celebrated
You will see this was an abomination to God! The Feast of Tammuz was usually celebrated

in June (also called the “month of the festival of Tammuz”). Lent was held 40 days before
in June (also called the “month of the festival of Tammuz”). Lent was held 40 days before

this feast, “celebrated by alternate weeping and rejoicing.” This is why Lent means “spring.”
this feast, “celebrated by alternate weeping and rejoicing.” This is why Lent means “spring.”

It took place from spring to early summer. But why did the church at Rome institute such
It took place from spring to early summer. But why did the church at Rome institute such

a pagan holiday? Notice: “To conciliate the Pagans to nominal Christianity, Rome,
a pagan holiday? Notice: “To conciliate the Pagans to nominal Christianity, Rome,

pursuing its usual policy, took measures to get the Christian and Pagan festivals amalgamated,
pursuing its usual policy, took measures to get the Christian and Pagan festivals amalgamated,

and, by a complicated but skillful adjustment of the calendar [shifting Lent to earlier],
and, by a complicated but skillful adjustment of the calendar [shifting Lent to earlier],

it was found no difficult matter, in general, to get Paganism and Christianity—now far
it was found no difficult matter, in general, to get Paganism and Christianity—now far

sunk in idolatry…(as in so many other things) to shake hands.”
sunk in idolatry…(as in so many other things) to shake hands.”

The Roman church replaced the God-ordained Passover with Easter, and moved the pagan
The Roman church replaced the God-ordained Passover with Easter, and moved the pagan

Feast of Tammuz to early spring, thus “Christianizing” it. Lent moved with it. Notice: “This change
Feast of Tammuz to early spring, thus “Christianizing” it. Lent moved with it. Notice: “This change

of the calendar in regard to Easter was attended with momentous consequences. It brought into
of the calendar in regard to Easter was attended with momentous consequences. It brought into

the Church the grossest corruption and the rankest superstition in connection with the
the Church the grossest corruption and the rankest superstition in connection with the

abstinence of Lent.” Just before Lent, the pagans held a wild,
abstinence of Lent.” Just before Lent, the pagans held a wild,

“anything goes” celebration to ensure they participated in enough debaucheries and
“anything goes” celebration to ensure they participated in enough debaucheries and

perversities before giving them up for Lent. Today, this same celebration is known as Mardi
perversities before giving them up for Lent. Today, this same celebration is known as Mardi

Gras. Lent was never observed by Jesus or His apostles.
Gras. Lent was never observed by Jesus or His apostles.

Jesus commanded His disciples to “Go you therefore, and teach all nations…to observe
Jesus commanded His disciples to “Go you therefore, and teach all nations…to observe

all things whatsoever I have commanded you.” Jesus did not command—or ever even suggest—His
all things whatsoever I have commanded you.” Jesus did not command—or ever even suggest—His

disciples keep Lent or Easter. He did, however, command the keeping of Passover and the Days
disciples keep Lent or Easter. He did, however, command the keeping of Passover and the Days

of Unleavened Bread. In fact, during His last Passover, Jesus gave detailed instructions
of Unleavened Bread. In fact, during His last Passover, Jesus gave detailed instructions

on how to observe it, including the use of new symbols. (Read John 13:1 to 17 and Luke
on how to observe it, including the use of new symbols. (Read John 13:1 to 17 and Luke

22:19 and 20.) Now more from a previous source: “The festival,
22:19 and 20.) Now more from a previous source: “The festival,

of which we read in Church history, under the name of Easter, in the third or fourth
of which we read in Church history, under the name of Easter, in the third or fourth

centuries, was quite a different festival from that now observed in the Romish Church,
centuries, was quite a different festival from that now observed in the Romish Church,

and at that time was not known by any such name as Easter…[Passover] was not idolatrous,
and at that time was not known by any such name as Easter…[Passover] was not idolatrous,

and it was preceded by no Lent. ‘It ought to be known,’ said Cassianus, the monk of
and it was preceded by no Lent. ‘It ought to be known,’ said Cassianus, the monk of

Marseilles, writing in the fifth century, and contrasting the primitive [New Testament]
Marseilles, writing in the fifth century, and contrasting the primitive [New Testament]

Church with the Church in his day, ‘that the observance of the 40 days had no existence,
Church with the Church in his day, ‘that the observance of the 40 days had no existence,

so long as the…primitive Church remained inviolate.’”
so long as the…primitive Church remained inviolate.’”

Lent was not observed by the first century Church! It was first introduced by the Roman
Lent was not observed by the first century Church! It was first introduced by the Roman

church during the Council of Nicea in AD 325, when Emperor Constantine officially recognized
church during the Council of Nicea in AD 325, when Emperor Constantine officially recognized

that church as the state religion of the empire. Any form of Christianity that held to doctrines
that church as the state religion of the empire. Any form of Christianity that held to doctrines

contrary to the Roman church was considered an enemy of the state. (To understand God’s
contrary to the Roman church was considered an enemy of the state. (To understand God’s

Church, read my book Where Is the True Church? -- and Its Incredible History!)
Church, read my book Where Is the True Church? -- and Its Incredible History!)

In 360, the Council of Laodicea officially commanded Lent be observed. Let’s read:
In 360, the Council of Laodicea officially commanded Lent be observed. Let’s read:

“The emphasis was not so much on the fasting as on the spiritual renewal that the preparation
“The emphasis was not so much on the fasting as on the spiritual renewal that the preparation

for Easter demanded. It was simply a period marked by fasting, but not necessarily one
for Easter demanded. It was simply a period marked by fasting, but not necessarily one

in which the faithful fasted every day. However, as time went on, more and more emphasis was
in which the faithful fasted every day. However, as time went on, more and more emphasis was

laid upon fasting…During the early centuries (from the fifth century on especially) the
laid upon fasting…During the early centuries (from the fifth century on especially) the

observance of the fast was very strict. Only one meal a day, toward evening, was allowed.”
observance of the fast was very strict. Only one meal a day, toward evening, was allowed.”

From the ninth century on, strictness was relaxed. More emphasis was on performing “penitential
From the ninth century on, strictness was relaxed. More emphasis was on performing “penitential

works” than fasting and abstinence. Let’s see this: “Abstinence is to be observed
works” than fasting and abstinence. Let’s see this: “Abstinence is to be observed

on Ash Wednesday and on all Fridays of the year that do not fall on holy days of obligation,
on Ash Wednesday and on all Fridays of the year that do not fall on holy days of obligation,

and fasting as well as abstinence is to be observed on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday.”
and fasting as well as abstinence is to be observed on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday.”

On Ash Wednesday, priests apply cross-shaped ashes to foreheads to show repentance and
On Ash Wednesday, priests apply cross-shaped ashes to foreheads to show repentance and

mourning. Today, Lent means fasting to forsake all sinful
mourning. Today, Lent means fasting to forsake all sinful

ways. It is defined as a season “for penance, which means sorrow for sin and conversion
ways. It is defined as a season “for penance, which means sorrow for sin and conversion

to God.” This tradition teaches that fasting and employing self-discipline during Lent
to God.” This tradition teaches that fasting and employing self-discipline during Lent

will give a worshipper the “control over himself that he needs to purify his heart
will give a worshipper the “control over himself that he needs to purify his heart

and renew his life.” But what does the Bible say about how a Christian
and renew his life.” But what does the Bible say about how a Christian

draws closer to God and purifies himself? First, God’s Word shows self-control comes
draws closer to God and purifies himself? First, God’s Word shows self-control comes

from having God’s Spirit working in the life of a converted mind. Notice: “Walk
from having God’s Spirit working in the life of a converted mind. Notice: “Walk

in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh…the fruit of the Spirit
in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh…the fruit of the Spirit

is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance [or
is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance [or

self-control].” Fasting cannot produce godly self-control.
self-control].” Fasting cannot produce godly self-control.

The Bible warns against using self-denial as a tool of growth, calling this will worship.
The Bible warns against using self-denial as a tool of growth, calling this will worship.

Let’s read what the apostle Paul wrote: “If you be dead with Christ from the rudiments
Let’s read what the apostle Paul wrote: “If you be dead with Christ from the rudiments

of the world, why, as though living in the world, are you subject to ordinances [that’s
of the world, why, as though living in the world, are you subject to ordinances [that’s

human ordinances], (touch not; taste not; handle not…) after the commandments and
human ordinances], (touch not; taste not; handle not…) after the commandments and

doctrines of men? Which things have indeed a show of wisdom in will worship, and humility
doctrines of men? Which things have indeed a show of wisdom in will worship, and humility

[that’s false humility], and neglecting of the body.”
[that’s false humility], and neglecting of the body.”

God did not design fasting to be a tool for penance, meaning to “beat yourself up,”
God did not design fasting to be a tool for penance, meaning to “beat yourself up,”

or to develop will power. Let’s read: “Is it such a fast that I have chosen? A day for
or to develop will power. Let’s read: “Is it such a fast that I have chosen? A day for

a man to afflict his soul? Is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, and to spread sackcloth
a man to afflict his soul? Is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, and to spread sackcloth

and ashes under him? Will you call this a fast, and an acceptable day to the Lord? Is
and ashes under him? Will you call this a fast, and an acceptable day to the Lord? Is

not this the fast that I have chosen? To loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy
not this the fast that I have chosen? To loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy

burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke? Is it not to
burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke? Is it not to

deal your bread to the hungry, and that you bring the poor that are cast out to your house?
deal your bread to the hungry, and that you bring the poor that are cast out to your house?

When you see the naked, that you cover him; and that you hide not yourself from your own
When you see the naked, that you cover him; and that you hide not yourself from your own

flesh?” God’s people humble themselves through fasting
flesh?” God’s people humble themselves through fasting

to draw close to Him—so they can learn to think and act like Him—so they can live
to draw close to Him—so they can learn to think and act like Him—so they can live

His Way in all things. Fasting and prayer help in this process. Let’s read this: “Submit
His Way in all things. Fasting and prayer help in this process. Let’s read this: “Submit

yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God,
yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God,

and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts,
and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts,

you double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning,
you double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning,

and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift
and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift

you up.” Also recognize the Bible teaches that true
you up.” Also recognize the Bible teaches that true

Christians are purified—cleansed or set apart and made pure in God’s sight—by
Christians are purified—cleansed or set apart and made pure in God’s sight—by

the shed blood of Jesus—not by self-denial. Notice: “If the blood of bulls and of goats,
the shed blood of Jesus—not by self-denial. Notice: “If the blood of bulls and of goats,

and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies to the purifying of the
and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies to the purifying of the

flesh: how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself
flesh: how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself

without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?”
without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?”

and “Almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood
and “Almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood

is no remission.” And finally: “Jesus…sanctif[ies] the people with His own blood.”
is no remission.” And finally: “Jesus…sanctif[ies] the people with His own blood.”

Faith also plays a role in the conversion process: “[God] put no difference between
Faith also plays a role in the conversion process: “[God] put no difference between

us and them [Paul wrote, referring to the Gentiles in context], purifying their hearts
us and them [Paul wrote, referring to the Gentiles in context], purifying their hearts

by faith.” Next understand that one cannot, by his or
by faith.” Next understand that one cannot, by his or

her own power, create even the desire to do God’s will. Although God has given mankind
her own power, create even the desire to do God’s will. Although God has given mankind

free moral agency, plain Bible verses show that the carnal, natural mind cannot—will
free moral agency, plain Bible verses show that the carnal, natural mind cannot—will

not—submit to God. Notice: “They that are after the flesh do mind the things of
not—submit to God. Notice: “They that are after the flesh do mind the things of

the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit…Because the carnal
the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit…Because the carnal

mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed
mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed

can be.” Only in a converted mind, actively led by His Spirit, can God, it says, work
can be.” Only in a converted mind, actively led by His Spirit, can God, it says, work

“in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.”
“in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.”

Also recall that Lent adherents strive to make God’s “kingdom come by making it
Also recall that Lent adherents strive to make God’s “kingdom come by making it

come first in their hearts.” This is an unbiblical concept taught by modern Christendom.
come first in their hearts.” This is an unbiblical concept taught by modern Christendom.

God is not setting up His kingdom in the hearts of men.
God is not setting up His kingdom in the hearts of men.

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the bad effects and points to the good news of the only possible solution—the soon-coming
the bad effects and points to the good news of the only possible solution—the soon-coming

kingdom of God! Your subscription is free with any literature order.
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Directly related to Lent, what about Easter? Since two billion people keep it, supposedly
Directly related to Lent, what about Easter? Since two billion people keep it, supposedly

to honor Christ’s Resurrection, the Bible must authorize it. Surely many verses mention
to honor Christ’s Resurrection, the Bible must authorize it. Surely many verses mention

rabbits, eggs, egg hunts, baskets of candy, hot cross buns, Good Friday, sunrise services
rabbits, eggs, egg hunts, baskets of candy, hot cross buns, Good Friday, sunrise services

and Easter itself—right? The Bible is the source of all things Christian—or
and Easter itself—right? The Bible is the source of all things Christian—or

should be. Does it mention Easter? It does, but not as you think!
should be. Does it mention Easter? It does, but not as you think!

Acts 12 describes persecution against the Church, involving the brutal murder by sword
Acts 12 describes persecution against the Church, involving the brutal murder by sword

of the apostle James. Notice: “Then were the days of unleavened bread.” The early
of the apostle James. Notice: “Then were the days of unleavened bread.” The early

New Testament Church was observing these feast days described in Leviticus 23. Next: “When
New Testament Church was observing these feast days described in Leviticus 23. Next: “When

he [that’s King Herod] had apprehended [Peter], he put him in prison, and delivered him to
he [that’s King Herod] had apprehended [Peter], he put him in prison, and delivered him to

four quarternions of soldiers [that’s 16] to keep him; intending after Easter to bring
four quarternions of soldiers [that’s 16] to keep him; intending after Easter to bring

him forth to the people.” Is this Bible authority for Easter? No!
him forth to the people.” Is this Bible authority for Easter? No!

This passage is not talking about Easter. The word Easter is translated from pascha—which
This passage is not talking about Easter. The word Easter is translated from pascha—which

derives from the Hebrew word pesach. There is no Greek word for Passover—and pascha
derives from the Hebrew word pesach. There is no Greek word for Passover—and pascha

has only one meaning. It always means Passover. It can never mean Easter! So we find a Hebrew
has only one meaning. It always means Passover. It can never mean Easter! So we find a Hebrew

word used in the Greek New Testament. Other translations, like the New King James, the
word used in the Greek New Testament. Other translations, like the New King James, the

Revised Standard Version and the New English Bible, correctly use “Passover.”
Revised Standard Version and the New English Bible, correctly use “Passover.”

Instead of endorsing Easter, Acts 12 in fact proves the Church was still keeping God’s
Instead of endorsing Easter, Acts 12 in fact proves the Church was still keeping God’s

Passover 11 years after Jesus’ death! This becomes its own statement about the rejection
Passover 11 years after Jesus’ death! This becomes its own statement about the rejection

of Easter. No scriptures support Easter. None! There
of Easter. No scriptures support Easter. None! There

are absolutely no verses, anywhere in the Bible, that in any way authorize or even permit
are absolutely no verses, anywhere in the Bible, that in any way authorize or even permit

celebrating Easter! And God’s Word says nothing about Lent, eggs, egg hunts, or baskets
celebrating Easter! And God’s Word says nothing about Lent, eggs, egg hunts, or baskets

of candy—although it does mention hot cross buns and sunrise services as practices God
of candy—although it does mention hot cross buns and sunrise services as practices God

condemns. You will later see this. The mistranslation of Acts 12 is a not-so-subtle
condemns. You will later see this. The mistranslation of Acts 12 is a not-so-subtle

attempt to insert a pagan festival into Scripture to authorize it—just like the pagan Lent
attempt to insert a pagan festival into Scripture to authorize it—just like the pagan Lent

was inserted into Christianity by Rome to authorize it.
was inserted into Christianity by Rome to authorize it.

So then, where did Easter originate? The vast majority of ecclesiastical and secular historians
So then, where did Easter originate? The vast majority of ecclesiastical and secular historians

know that Easter—and the traditions surrounding it—are deeply rooted in pagan religion.
know that Easter—and the traditions surrounding it—are deeply rooted in pagan religion.

Let’s briefly examine the ancient roots of this widely observed holiday. Powerful
Let’s briefly examine the ancient roots of this widely observed holiday. Powerful

quotes demonstrate the true origin of the modern Easter celebration.
quotes demonstrate the true origin of the modern Easter celebration.

First is this admission: “The origin of the term for the feast of Christ’s Resurrection
First is this admission: “The origin of the term for the feast of Christ’s Resurrection

has been popularly considered to be from the Anglo-Saxon Eastre, a goddess of spring...[Also,
has been popularly considered to be from the Anglo-Saxon Eastre, a goddess of spring...[Also,

the name comes from] the Old High German plural for dawn, eostarun; whence has come the German
the name comes from] the Old High German plural for dawn, eostarun; whence has come the German

Ostern, and our English Easter.” Another source: “The fact that vernal festivals
Ostern, and our English Easter.” Another source: “The fact that vernal festivals

were general among pagan peoples no doubt had much to do with the form assumed by the
were general among pagan peoples no doubt had much to do with the form assumed by the

Easter festival in the Christian churches. The English term ‘Easter’ is of pagan
Easter festival in the Christian churches. The English term ‘Easter’ is of pagan

origin.” And this: “On this greatest of Christian
origin.” And this: “On this greatest of Christian

festivals, several survivals occur of ancient heathen ceremonies. To begin with, the name
festivals, several survivals occur of ancient heathen ceremonies. To begin with, the name

itself is not Christian but pagan. ‘Ostara’ was the Anglo-Saxon Goddess of Spring.”
itself is not Christian but pagan. ‘Ostara’ was the Anglo-Saxon Goddess of Spring.”

Sunrise services are mentioned in the Bible—but, again, not as you expect. The context is the
Sunrise services are mentioned in the Bible—but, again, not as you expect. The context is the

prophet Ezekiel being shown, in a vision, an important prophecy concerning the sins
prophet Ezekiel being shown, in a vision, an important prophecy concerning the sins

of God’s people in our time. Only briefly touched upon earlier, the next powerful verses
of God’s people in our time. Only briefly touched upon earlier, the next powerful verses

reveal God’s plain condemnation of sunrise services, and what will happen to those who
reveal God’s plain condemnation of sunrise services, and what will happen to those who

dismiss or minimize His command. Let’s read it: “Turn you yet again, and you shall see
dismiss or minimize His command. Let’s read it: “Turn you yet again, and you shall see

greater abominations that they do...and, behold, there sat women weeping for Tammuz [we saw
greater abominations that they do...and, behold, there sat women weeping for Tammuz [we saw

that earlier]...And He brought me into the inner court of the Lord’s house, and…at
that earlier]...And He brought me into the inner court of the Lord’s house, and…at

the door of the temple of the Lord, between the porch and the altar, were about 25 men,
the door of the temple of the Lord, between the porch and the altar, were about 25 men,

with their backs toward the temple of the Lord, and their faces toward the east; and
with their backs toward the temple of the Lord, and their faces toward the east; and

they worshipped the sun toward the east. Then [God] said to me, Have you seen this...Is
they worshipped the sun toward the east. Then [God] said to me, Have you seen this...Is

it a light thing [or no big deal?]...that they commit the abominations which they commit
it a light thing [or no big deal?]...that they commit the abominations which they commit

here? [Are you getting this?] For they...have returned to provoke Me to anger...Therefore
here? [Are you getting this?] For they...have returned to provoke Me to anger...Therefore

will I also deal in fury: My eye shall not spare, neither will I have pity...”
will I also deal in fury: My eye shall not spare, neither will I have pity...”

Observing sunrise services is serious to God! He so hates this vile practice that He says
Observing sunrise services is serious to God! He so hates this vile practice that He says

He will ultimately destroy everyone who persists in what He calls “abomination!”
He will ultimately destroy everyone who persists in what He calls “abomination!”

We now know Easter is the goddess Ashtaroth. Next we need to examine the Bible for what
We now know Easter is the goddess Ashtaroth. Next we need to examine the Bible for what

God thinks of her. Notice this: “The children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord...And
God thinks of her. Notice this: “The children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord...And

they forsook the Lord, and served Baal and Ashtaroth.”
they forsook the Lord, and served Baal and Ashtaroth.”

The prophet Samuel warned Israel, “Put away the strange gods and Ashtaroth from among
The prophet Samuel warned Israel, “Put away the strange gods and Ashtaroth from among

you, and prepare your hearts unto the Lord, and serve Him only...Then the children of
you, and prepare your hearts unto the Lord, and serve Him only...Then the children of

Israel did put away Baalim and Ashtaroth, and served the Lord only.” Later, the prophet
Israel did put away Baalim and Ashtaroth, and served the Lord only.” Later, the prophet

Samuel reminded Israel of her history—that they would return to obey God, only to fall
Samuel reminded Israel of her history—that they would return to obey God, only to fall

back into idolatry time and time again! We have seen that God never instructed—but
back into idolatry time and time again! We have seen that God never instructed—but

rather actually commanded against—Easter. This includes the observance of traditions
rather actually commanded against—Easter. This includes the observance of traditions

surrounding Easter such as Lent. What seems so innocent is not innocent at all.
surrounding Easter such as Lent. What seems so innocent is not innocent at all.

In place of God’s seven annual Holy Days—outlined and commanded in His Word—men want to observe
In place of God’s seven annual Holy Days—outlined and commanded in His Word—men want to observe

their own holidays—and then tell themselves they are pleasing and worshipping the true
their own holidays—and then tell themselves they are pleasing and worshipping the true

God. Jesus warned: “In vain they do worship Me,
God. Jesus warned: “In vain they do worship Me,

teaching for doctrines the commandments of men,” and added, “Full well [or knowing
teaching for doctrines the commandments of men,” and added, “Full well [or knowing

full well] you reject the commandment of God, that you may keep your own tradition.” Every
full well] you reject the commandment of God, that you may keep your own tradition.” Every

year, two billion professing Christians around the world reject God’s Word to keep men’s
year, two billion professing Christians around the world reject God’s Word to keep men’s

holidays! No wonder Jesus asked, “Why call you Me, ‘Lord, Lord’ and do not the things
holidays! No wonder Jesus asked, “Why call you Me, ‘Lord, Lord’ and do not the things

which I say.” God told Israel: “You shall not walk in
which I say.” God told Israel: “You shall not walk in

the manners of the nations, which I cast out before you: for they committed all these things,
the manners of the nations, which I cast out before you: for they committed all these things,

and therefore I abhorred them...and you shall be holy to Me: for I the Lord am holy, and
and therefore I abhorred them...and you shall be holy to Me: for I the Lord am holy, and

have severed you from other people, that you should be Mine.” God commands His followers
have severed you from other people, that you should be Mine.” God commands His followers

to come out of the world and its Babylonish ways, saying, “Come out of her, My people,
to come out of the world and its Babylonish ways, saying, “Come out of her, My people,

that you be not partakers of her sins, and…receive not of her plagues.”
that you be not partakers of her sins, and…receive not of her plagues.”

Worldwide disobedience comes with a terrible price. National punishment now lies just ahead
Worldwide disobedience comes with a terrible price. National punishment now lies just ahead

for the world’s greatest nations—the ones who have been custodians of the Bible and
for the world’s greatest nations—the ones who have been custodians of the Bible and

who should—and could—have known the truth you now know.
who should—and could—have known the truth you now know.

In the second Commandment—forbidding all forms of idolatry—and in other passages,
In the second Commandment—forbidding all forms of idolatry—and in other passages,

God declares He is a jealous God. He wants His people doing what He commands, not the
God declares He is a jealous God. He wants His people doing what He commands, not the

practices of false gods! God plainly instructs, “Learn not the way
practices of false gods! God plainly instructs, “Learn not the way

of the heathen.” But most people do not fear God—they do not care what He says—and
of the heathen.” But most people do not fear God—they do not care what He says—and

He allows them to make their own decisions. Human beings are free moral agents—free
He allows them to make their own decisions. Human beings are free moral agents—free

to learn or not learn what God commands—free to obey or disobey Him!
to learn or not learn what God commands—free to obey or disobey Him!

But woe to those who ignore the plain Word of the Bible, believing men can overrule God!
But woe to those who ignore the plain Word of the Bible, believing men can overrule God!

People can worship in ways that represent things far different from what they sincerely
People can worship in ways that represent things far different from what they sincerely

believe or intend. When they have observed a custom for a long time they come to identify
believe or intend. When they have observed a custom for a long time they come to identify

with it, as though it were their own. They vest in it. When one tries to tell them the
with it, as though it were their own. They vest in it. When one tries to tell them the

truth—presenting facts, evidence, proof—and scripture—many become hostile—angry!—that
truth—presenting facts, evidence, proof—and scripture—many become hostile—angry!—that

one would dare violate sacred personal beliefs. The proof is overwhelming that men’s holidays—including
one would dare violate sacred personal beliefs. The proof is overwhelming that men’s holidays—including

the unscriptural Lent—are human traditions—”commandments of men”—condemned by God! Yet the masses
the unscriptural Lent—are human traditions—”commandments of men”—condemned by God! Yet the masses

keep them, anyway! God makes absolutely clear He does not want
keep them, anyway! God makes absolutely clear He does not want

us to mix His ways with any false ways. He declares, “What thing soever I command you,
us to mix His ways with any false ways. He declares, “What thing soever I command you,

observe to do it: you shall not add thereto, nor diminish from it.” In other words, do
observe to do it: you shall not add thereto, nor diminish from it.” In other words, do

exactly what I say—nothing more, nothing less!
exactly what I say—nothing more, nothing less!

Be careful of anger at me. I merely told you what God says. Direct your anger at ministers
Be careful of anger at me. I merely told you what God says. Direct your anger at ministers

you trusted—who knew better and deceived you.
you trusted—who knew better and deceived you.

God declares in multiple places—and in crystal clear words for those seeking His view—that
God declares in multiple places—and in crystal clear words for those seeking His view—that

He hates all customs associated with pagan celebrations. And we saw His plain words to
He hates all customs associated with pagan celebrations. And we saw His plain words to

all who say they can mix wretched pagan customs with Christianity.
all who say they can mix wretched pagan customs with Christianity.

Passover and the Days of Unleavened Bread were observed by Jesus, the apostles and the
Passover and the Days of Unleavened Bread were observed by Jesus, the apostles and the

New Testament Church—including Gentiles. God commands His people to keep them today.
New Testament Church—including Gentiles. God commands His people to keep them today.

(Read I Corinthians 5 verses 7 and 8). These booklets reveal much more: The True
(Read I Corinthians 5 verses 7 and 8). These booklets reveal much more: The True

Origin of Easter, Christ’s Resurrection Was Not on Sunday, How Often Should the Lord’s
Origin of Easter, Christ’s Resurrection Was Not on Sunday, How Often Should the Lord’s

Supper Be Taken?, as well as God’s Holy Days or Pagan Holidays? They are crucial for
Supper Be Taken?, as well as God’s Holy Days or Pagan Holidays? They are crucial for

those who care what God thinks about days men think so special.
those who care what God thinks about days men think so special.

God is not the author of confusion. He did not institute Lent, an observance that ultimately
God is not the author of confusion. He did not institute Lent, an observance that ultimately

connects utter debauchery to the fictional resurrection of a false messiah.
connects utter debauchery to the fictional resurrection of a false messiah.

God commands His people to follow Him—not the traditions of men. God’s ways are higher—better—than
God commands His people to follow Him—not the traditions of men. God’s ways are higher—better—than

man’s. (Read Isaiah 55 verses 8 and 9.) Men cannot determine for themselves right
man’s. (Read Isaiah 55 verses 8 and 9.) Men cannot determine for themselves right

from wrong or how to properly worship God. Why? Because “The heart [meaning the mind]
from wrong or how to properly worship God. Why? Because “The heart [meaning the mind]

is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked,” and “the way of man is not in
is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked,” and “the way of man is not in

himself: it is not in man that walks to direct his steps.” Almighty God designed us and
himself: it is not in man that walks to direct his steps.” Almighty God designed us and

gave us life. He teaches how we are supposed to worship Him.
gave us life. He teaches how we are supposed to worship Him.

Lent is a human invention—nothing more than a popular tradition of men—that has nothing
Lent is a human invention—nothing more than a popular tradition of men—that has nothing

to do with God. God commands Christians to reject the traditions
to do with God. God commands Christians to reject the traditions

of men and customs of a world led and deceived by the devil (II Corinthians 4:4 and Revelation
of men and customs of a world led and deceived by the devil (II Corinthians 4:4 and Revelation

12:9). Observing Lent may seem right, but it is deeply rooted in customs that counterfeit
12:9). Observing Lent may seem right, but it is deeply rooted in customs that counterfeit

God’s Plan. Men cannot “Christianize” or make these customs clean. Lent is no exception.
God’s Plan. Men cannot “Christianize” or make these customs clean. Lent is no exception.

You face a choice: follow the masses who are listening to confused, deceived priests and
You face a choice: follow the masses who are listening to confused, deceived priests and

ministers. Or, open your mind—and your Bible—listen to God, and follow the truth.
ministers. Or, open your mind—and your Bible—listen to God, and follow the truth.

Until next time, this is David C. Pack saying, “Goodbye, friends.”
Until next time, this is David C. Pack saying, “Goodbye, friends.”

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