Jesus' sacrifice on the cross should prompt Christians to put aside petty grudges and make a real show of unity this Easter, Joel Edwards has urged in his final Easter message as General Director of the Evangelical Alliance.

In his message, which can be seen on the Alliance website, Mr Edwards urged Christians, of whatever creed and denomination, to consider that if an innocent man can forgive his executioner, no-one is exempt from forgiving others.

He said: "If an innocent man could give his life for both friends and enemies, how can we claim to be his followers if we compete, hold grudges and divide the Church? The Cross - one sacrifice for all sins, should lead us to live as one body for a hurting world."

He also praised the BBC's series The Passion, which focuses on the final week of Jesus' life. "Churches have unified to support the programme, from the beginning making the most of a unique opportunity for mission, explaining Jesus' work on the cross to friends, family and neighbours, " he said. "But, perhaps as importantly, I hope it has been a stimulus for each of us to get to know Jesus better. And anybody who wants to know Jesus better simply cannot avoid his Passion."

He added: "From the very outset of his ministry he knew why he was born. He came to serve, to give his life as a ransom for many - He lived to die."

The Easter message is available to view and download online at www.eauk.org.