When I attended college here in Kelowna (back when it was still known as OUC), we did an experiment one Easter.  We rented a massive bunny suit, put my friend Glendon inside, and walked around with a video camera, as Glendon in this bunny suit asked students what Easter was all about.  The results were sobering as usual.  Take a look to find out "The True Meaning of Easter".  Pastor Mike

It's an event that has been studied and debated for two thousand years.  Its importance can not be understated.  The resurrection of Jesus lies at the heart of the Christian faith, and its truth is central to the religion that sprung from the man who claimed to be God and the victor of death and the grave.  But did it really happen?  Did Jesus Christ truly die and then three days later rise from the dead? 

I wrote a paper addressing this issue, examining the resurrection and the questions that are raised about it.  It must be noted that if Christ is not risen, then the whole of Christianity is a misguided fraud.  However I propose that the existence of the empty tomb, the reported appearances of Jesus after his death, and the origin of the Christian faith all attest to the fact that Jesus Christ truly did rise from the dead.

You can read more about it here - History or Hoax? Resurrection of Jesus 

Love to get your feedback below.

I got a great email this week from a young woman at Alive who wonders how we should share Jesus with those who have been turned off by Christians before.  Is it enough to simply let our actions speak for us?  Or is there a time and a place for words?  And what kind of words?  Perhaps you've found yourself thinking thoughts like her.  I respond on the bottom.  Love to hear your feedback as well.  Pastor Mike. 

  What does it mean to follow Christ? What do our lives look like when we make the choice to follow God in everything we do? What do we need to give up to be disciples of Christ?

Does Easter seem early to you this year?  The reality is it's very early, and you'll never see it this early again. . . here's why. 

It was late on Saturday night and nearly everybody had left the campfire to head back to the cabins.  One solitary figure sat staring into the flames, apparently lost in thought.  Gerald wasn't quite sure why he had agreed to come along for this retreat weekend.  The invitation two weeks earlier from a couple of acquaintances at university was surprisingly warm, and Gerald said yes because he thought it would be a good chance to meet some girls.  Instead, it turned out to be one of those "religious" weekends.  Gerald wasn't interested in becoming a "Bible-thumper", and yet he couldn't shake the acceptance and peace he felt in this place.  Read the rest of Pastor Mike's Master's paper on the subject here. How Can A Good God Send People To Hell

You guys ask some tough questions, but we hope to be up to the challenge, as we turn our attention to how the Bible responds to these important issues about life "Beyond" the grave.  Again, Chris McGrath champions this effort, and welcomes your responses below.  Pastor Mike.

If God forgives everyone of their sins, then how does anyone go to hell?  Will there ever be atonement for those that go to hell, or will they be in hell forever?  Do you go to sleep until God comes, or do you get to go straight to heaven?  Does God create people not only knowing they will go to hell, but planning it intentionally?  Can the devil be forgiven?

A lot of people have asked me about suicide, and whether someone who commits suicide automatically go to hell.  It's a tough subject to be sure, and I found this article from the MB Conference to be helpful.  If you or someone you know is struggling in this area, take a read.  Pastor Mike.

Have you ever heard the phrase "God is a perfect gentlemen, he won't force himself on you?"  I have.  In fact, I've said it.  But is it correct (yes, I can be wrong at times :)  Is that the picture of God we get in scripture?  A sharp mind at Alive, Chris McGrath, ponders that question in this blog.  Worth your read for sure.  Pastor Mike

We sent our intrepid Video crew to downtown Kelowna this week, to ask people if they believed in anything beyond the grave.  Their answers are as varied as they are interesting.  Take a look for yourself (2 minutes)