Today is Ash Wednesday, and the first day of Lent: the 40 day period leading up to Easter, which, for some Christians is a time of fasting and contrition.

Several friends recently asked me for my opinion on the practice of Lent. I have written on it previously (see here), but these questions prompted me to create a video in order to launch the sixth season of the Theology for the People Podcast.

What is Lent really about? Should evangelicals practice it? And did you know that the early church celebrated Easter for 40 days?

In this episode of the Theology for the People Podcast, I share about the fascinating history of Lent — from its origins in the early church to its evolution over the centuries. What began as a 40-day preparation for baptism eventually became a widespread season of fasting and penance. But along the way, something was lost: a 40-day season of celebration known as Eastertide.

This episode walks you through:

• The early church practice of baptism on Easter
• The rise of catechumens and Lent as preparation
• The normalization of infant baptism
• The influence of original sin and Christendom
• Why Easter was once a 40-day feast of joy
• Why many Christians emphasize penance but neglect celebration

Whether you observe Lent or not, this episode will challenge you to remember that celebration of what Christ has done for you should take precedence over focusing on what you do for Him.

Subscribe for upcoming episodes on:

• The Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24–25)
• Church planting in North Africa
• The Jewish Seder and how it points to Jesus
• And more!

Watch this episode here, or listen here or in the embedded player below.

The History of Lent & the Lost Celebration – Theology for the People

What is Lent really about? Should evangelicals practice it? And did you know that the early church celebrated Easter for 40 days?In this episode of Theology for the People, Nick Cady explores the fascinating history of Lent — from its origins in the early church to its evolution over the centuries. What began as a 40-day preparation for baptism eventually became a widespread season of fasting and penance. But along the way, something was lost: a 40-day season of celebration known as Eastertide.Nick walks through:The early church practice of baptism on EasterThe rise of catechumens and Lent as preparationThe normalization of infant baptismThe influence of original sin and ChristendomWhy Easter was once a 40-day feast of joyWhy many Christians emphasize penance but neglect celebrationWhether you observe Lent or not, this episode will challenge you to remember that celebration of what Christ has done for you should take precedence over focusing on what you do for Him.📩 Have a theological question? Visit nickcady.org and click “Ask a Question.”Subscribe for upcoming episodes on:The Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24–25)Church planting in North AfricaThe Jewish Seder and how it points to JesusAnd more!