Another week, another movie sequel… People complain about them, but still line up to see these movies.

What is it about the sequel that makes us want to see it?

Could it be love for the characters? Or do we want to know more about them?

Regardless, sequels say a lot about humans—we want to know and see more.

The sequel isn’t new.

They have existed throughout history, you could argue that the Bible even has a few: 1 and 2 Samuel, Kings and Chronicles, or many of the follow-up stories to Paul’s letters.

Yet none compare to the four Gospels.

I know they are the same story, but each gives a different perspective, speaks to a different audience and gives us a richer view of the most important story ever told.

So, sequels. Maybe they aren’t that bad. Who knows, those found in the Bible may even change your life.

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

Feature image: Photo by JESHOOTS.COM on Unsplash

About the author: Russ Matthews is a film critic at City Bible Forum and Reel Dialogue. He has a passion for film and sparking spiritual conversations.

“Weren’t the Gospels of Jesus written a long time after His life?”

Well, the final form of the Gospels were most likely written around 30 to 60 years after the events they record.

This may sound like a long time, but it’s actually inconsequential.

The ancient world was predominantly an oral culture. Historical events were commonly and accurately transmitted without being written down. But details of Jesus’ life were eventually written down, 30 to 60 years later, because the eyewitnesses were dying out and the believers wanted to preserve their testimony.

But the fact is, most history is written many decades after the events – and we never think to challenge its authenticity.

Laurence Rees published a book on Auschwitz 60 years after the Holocaust, yet no one suggests that this history is invalid. Otherwise, no history could ever be written.

The Gospels were written later, but this timeframe doesn’t diminish their trustworthiness at all.

Article supplied with thanks to City Bible Forum.

Feature image: Photo by Anthony Garand on Unsplash

About the author: Robert Martin oversees the work of City Bible Forum in Melbourne and is the host of the Bigger Questions radio show / podcast.

As Easter approaches, many of us are looking forward to a break from work, chocolate eggs, and hot cross buns.

But for Christians, Easter is much more than a public holiday, it’s the most important celebration of the year. For others, though, Easter might feel confusing or even irrelevant. So we had a chat to Pastor Adam Meredith, from Red Door Community Church, to unpack what Easter is really about and why it still matters today.

What is Easter All About?

Easter is at the heart of the Christian faith, says Adam. It tells the story of Jesus Christ’s journey to the cross, his crucifixion, his burial, and his resurrection on the third day.

“This story has stood the test of time. It’s not just an ancient tradition, it’s the foundation of Christian belief,” said Pastor Adam.

The Easter story is told over a series of key events that Christians call Holy Week:

• Holy Thursday: This commemorates the Last Supper Jesus shared with his disciples.
• Good Friday: This is the day Jesus was crucified and died on the cross.
• Easter Saturday: A day of quiet reflection as Jesus lay in the tomb.
• Easter Sunday: The day Jesus rose from the dead, a celebration of new life and victory over death.

“These traditional days help people connect with the deeper meaning of Easter,” said Adam. “They’re not just about remembering history, they invite us to reflect on what Jesus’ journey means for us today.”

Why Did Jesus Die?

For many people, especially those unfamiliar with Christian beliefs, the Easter story can raise big questions. One of the most common is: Why did Jesus have to die? And why in such a brutal way?

“It’s a great question,” Adam said. “The Christian faith teaches that Jesus was both fully human and fully divine. That combination made him the only one capable of being the perfect sacrifice for humanity’s sin.”

He explains that sin is not just about individual wrongdoing. In the Bible, sin refers to a deeper problem, a separation between humans and God caused by our brokenness.

“All of us fall short of God’s perfection,” Adam said. “Jesus stepped in to bridge that gap. He took on the penalty of sin so we wouldn’t have to. That’s what happened on the cross.”

Because Jesus was sinless and innocent, his death carried the weight of justice and forgiveness. And his resurrection proved his victory over sin and death.

Is Easter Still Relevant Today?

For Christians, Easter is more than a historical event. It’s a present-day reality.

“The Easter story isn’t just something to understand in your head,” said Adam. “It’s something to receive in your heart. It’s personal.”

He explains that Jesus’ death and resurrection offer a pathway to a restored relationship with God, not just for people in the past, but for anyone today.

“If you believe in your heart and confess with your mouth that Jesus died for your sins and rose again… that’s the Christian message,” he said. “It’s about transformation. Something that happens in the human heart when we say yes to that truth.”

What About People Who Are Still Exploring?

Not everyone listening to the Easter story will immediately connect with it, and Pastor Adam acknowledges that faith is a journey.

“I can’t force someone to believe,” he said. “It has to be a free choice. All I can do is share the truth and invite people to respond.”

He encourages people who are curious to start by asking questions, even the ones that seem hard or uncomfortable.

“Faith begins with curiosity,” Adam said. “If you’re wondering if God is real, ask him. Pray a simple prayer like: God, if you’re real, show me. If this story about Jesus matters, help me understand why.”

Where Can You Learn More?

Pastor Adam understands that walking into a church can feel intimidating, especially for someone new to Christianity. That’s why he recommends the Alpha Course, a free, informal series designed to explore life, faith, and meaning in a safe and welcoming environment.

“Alpha is one of the best resources out there,” he said. “It’s designed for people who are exploring and want to ask honest questions. And no question is too simple or too tough.”

He also encourages people to talk to someone they know who’s a Christian: “Ask them, ‘Why do you believe?’ That conversation can be so powerful.”

Final Thoughts

Easter is more than a long weekend or a tradition. It’s a story of hope, sacrifice, and new life. And according to Pastor Adam, it’s a story that invites every one of us to respond.

“Jesus died for you. He rose again. And he wants a relationship with you,” he said. “That’s what makes Easter so powerful.”

If you’re curious about faith, have questions, or want to know more, consider checking out alpha.org.au, or simply reach out to someone you trust.

As Pastor Adam puts it, “You don’t need all the answers. Just start the journey.”

Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.

Feature image: Photo by Bill Gullo on Unsplash