Easter Sunday School Lesson  William B. Lindley In his book, The Age of Reason, Thomas Paine examined the story of the Crucifixion and the Resurrection, reviewing the four Gospels. His comments on the story are to be found there. In the spirit of free and open inquiry, we offer a study guide based upon his findings. We have recast his comments in the form of ten questions. We recommend that you first study the Bible itself before going on to Paine's and other commentaries. Only this way will it truly be a lesson. The questions: The Crucifixion 1. At what time of day was Jesus crucified? 2. What inscription was put on the cross? 3. What, if any, spectacular events accompanied the crucifixion? The Resurrection 1. Mary Magdalene went to Jesus' tomb early Easter Sunday morning. What time did she go, more specifically? 2. Who, if anybody, accompanied her? 3. When she arrived at the tomb, she found that the stone had been rolled away. At least one angel was at the site. How many? 4. Specifically where was he (were they) situated? 5. Did Mary Magdalene enter the sepulchre? 6. Where were the disciples when Jesus appeared to them? 7. Where did the Ascension take place? Check all four Gospels to make sure that you have the right answer. (For the Crucifixion, Matthew 27, Mark 15, Luke 23, John 19; for the Resurrection, Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24, John 20, 21.) Then go to The Age of Reason and compare your findings with Paine's. As you study the account, other questions may occur to you, and you may find that Paine did not address them. You are now ready for the advanced course, to be found in Dan Barker's "No Stone Unturned" in The Book Your Church Doesn't Want You To Read and in other places. Table of Contents | 1996 Issues | Subscribe Truth Seeker | Feedback | Freethought.com Webmaster Credit card Orders call: 800-321-9054 or fax: (619)676-0433 Or send check or money order to: Truth Seeker / 16935 W. Bernardo Drive, Suite 103 / San Diego, CA 92127 $20.00 annual U.S. subscription ($35.00 international). Individual issues—$10.00 + $2.50 postage and handling Or be a committed freethinker and send $35.00 for a two year subscription. Truth Seeker is published by Truth Seeker Co., Inc. (ISSN 0041-3712) © 1996