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The War Cry | APRIL 2015
lthough Jesus is the central figure of the Easter story, He was
surrounded by a myriad of personalities who contributed to
the fulfillment of God's plan of salvation for mankind. Every
character had his or her unique impact, good or bad, on
the events surrounding the first Easter morning. In this
special War Cry section, noted writers introduce us to
the characters whose names are synonymous with the Easter story.
Major Ed Forster leads off by taking us through the roller coaster of emotions the
disciple Peter must have felt during those perplexing few days when Jesus was hailed
as a king upon entering Jerusalem, only to be captured, tried and sentenced to death.
Through the words of Lieutenant Christopher White, readers will learn of another
disciple, John, who was especially close to the Savior.
An unidentified thief, crucified simultaneously with Jesus, was the first to confess,
shortly before death mercifully ended his nightmare. That man's confession proves to
mankind that a home in Heaven awaits every believer in Jesus Christ as Lord and
Savior. Major Frank Duracher examines the thief on the cross.
Caiaphas and Judas were two villains in the events culminating in the Resurrec-
tion. As high priest, Caiaphas spearheaded the kangaroo court that took Jesus through
mock trials straight to Calvary, the execution hill just outside Jerusalem. Captain
August Pillsbury studies Caiaphas' infamous role.
Major Rob Reardon takes aim at Judas, perhaps the most despised traitor in
human history. Judas' unthinkable betrayal fulfilled Old Testament prophecies about
the Son of Man being turned over to sinful men.
Joseph of Arimathea, a silent believer and member of the Sanhedrin, performed
a loving gesture for the dead Messiah, whose tomb became vacant. Lt. Colonel Danny
Morrow explores Joseph's perspective.
Finally, Commissioner Debi Bell describes Mary's role in the Easter story.
Imagine her eternal privilege as one of the first messengers of the Risen Christ.
The Good News of Easter is for all who believe in the atoning work of Jesus Christ,
who said, "I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in Me will live,
even after dying" (John 11:25).
Jesus is risen! He is risen, indeed.
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Illustration �2015 Lars Justinen/Licensed from GoodSalt.com