Podcasts about Herod

Merry Christmas again!  That's right, it's still the Christmas season. And, in the passage for this episode of Coffee to Go, we find Mary and Joseph on the move... fleeing an oppressive empire for safety's sake. The story for those who remain is gruesome, but such is often the case when those in power will do anything to maintain their power. In this case, we find Herod slaughtering all infants who might fit the description of the rumored “savior.” Rather than fleeing, join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith and show a little kindness to others as an act of resistance to violence in our world.  Listen to more episodes in the Coffee to Go series. Download the Transcript. Thanks for listening to Faith Unfiltered!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission: “For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org “The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services). All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey. NOTE: The series that make up Faith Unfiltered explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Faith Unfiltered is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.

Read OnlineWhen the magi had departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I tell you. Herod is going to search for the child to destroy him.” Joseph rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed for Egypt. Matthew 2:13–14Today we honor and ponder the family life of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. The love within their home exceeded that of any other household, and the love within their family poured forth upon their extended family and wider community. Scripture gives us limited details about the life of the Holy Family. What we do know is that from the very beginning, they suffered through enormous challenges.Mary's pregnancy was the first challenge they faced. She conceived the Christ Child before she and Joseph lived together. Though she knew how she conceived the Son of God, Joseph did not understand until the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream. We can imagine that relatives and members of the community expressed their disapproval, given that the angel of the Lord did not reveal the truth to everyone.Jesus was born far away from their home, in the little town of Bethlehem, in a cave, where animals dwelt. Humble shepherds were their first guests, and the magi from the East soon followed. Within a year or two after Jesus' birth, this family had to uproot from their home and flee to Egypt, find accommodations, and earn a living because Herod sought to kill the child Jesus.After Herod's death, Joseph was instructed in two subsequent dreams that he could return to Israel and was to move his family to the small and unremarkable village of Nazareth. Though Nazareth was not held in high esteem, it was within this simple setting that Jesus was raised and learned the virtues of hard work, obedience, and humility. Nazareth, though overlooked by the world, became the sacred ground where the Savior of the world was prepared for His mission. Finally, given that Saint Joseph is not mentioned during the time that Jesus exercised His public ministry, it is commonly believed that Jesus and His mother experienced the human sorrow of Joseph's earthly death.Despite the hardships the Holy Family endured, the love in their home overshadowed every challenge, making their family life a source of the utmost consolation and joy. Amidst the trials they faced, the Holy Family found joy, not in worldly comforts, but in their deep union with God and with each other. Their home was a sanctuary of love, prayer, and mutual support, where God's presence was always felt. How fascinating it will be one day, in Heaven, if God reveals to us the details about the earthly and hidden life of the Holy Family. Though the angels witnessed their lives as they unfolded in time, we can hope and imagine that God, in His goodness, will share these mysteries with the saints, revealing the true beauty of the Holy Family's earthly life together. Their conversations, interactions, charity, prayer, fun, work, and all that made up their family life will be a source of eternal admiration and gratitude.Reflect today on the Holy Family. Ask God to give you insight into their lives together. As you do, use any insights as a source of inspiration for your own life and relationships with those closest to you. Though we will all fall short of the charity that permeated the home of the Holy Family, we can work to imitate them by allowing God to increase our charity toward one another. Through daily prayer, acts of sacrifice, and a commitment to love one another, we can create a family life that reflects the holiness and unity of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, Your family life was holy beyond imagination. In your daily interactions, Your love was manifest and inspiring to each other and to Your relatives and friends. Please draw me into Your family life and teach me to love those in my family so that we will become a stronger community of love. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Angelica Kauffmann, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

See Matthew ch. 2. Though St Matthew's account may leave the impression that the flight into Egypt was almost immediate, it would have been at least forty days after Christ's birth, following His Presentation in the Temple (Luke ch. 2). Christ, his holy Mother and his adoptive father St Joseph probably remained in Egypt for several years, until the death of Herod the Great.   St Nikolai Velimirovic (in the Prologue) relates the following tale: the holy family, fleeing into Egypt, were accosted by robbers, one of whom, seeing the Christ Child, was amazed at his supernatural beauty and said 'If God were to take human flesh Himself, He would not be more beautiful than this child!'. The robber told his companions to take nothing from the family. In gratitude the Mother of God told him 'This Child will reward you richly for having spared Him today.' Thirty years later it was this robber who was crucified at Christ's right hand, and was granted to hear the words 'Today shalt thou be with Me in Paradise.'

If you would like additional information, books, or if you would like to make a love donation; please visit us at https://www.walkinginpower.orgBern Zumpano introduces Revelation Chapter 12, framing it as an overview of events from chapters 6 through 11, focused primarily on Israel's persecution (anti-Semitism) during the Tribulation. The chapter begins with a "great sign" in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, the moon under her feet, and a crown of 12 stars . This woman is Israel, with the 12 stars symbolizing the 12 tribes (Genesis 37). She is "with child," representing the birth of Christ (the Messiah), a male child who "was caught up to God and to his throne" (His ascension), which terminates Daniel's 69th week. A second sign appears: a great red dragon (Satan) with seven heads (wisdom) and ten horns (authority), symbolizing the ten-nation confederacy (the resurrected Roman Empire/European Union) that will back the Antichrist. The dragon attempts to devour the child at birth (Herod's decree) and sweeps a third of the angels (stars) down to earth with him, establishing his kingdom on earth (Pergamum being his throne).The shift to the future occurs between verses 5 and 6, marking the beginning of Daniel's 70th week (the seven-year Tribulation), where the woman (Israel) flees into the wilderness for 1,260 days (three and a half years) for God's protection from the Antichrist (Satan's incarnated man). A war in the heavenlies then occurs where Michael and his angels successfully cast the dragon and his angels down to earth, permanently dispossessing Satan from the atmospheric heaven (heavenlies) and limiting his control, which is the immediate consequence of Christ taking the title deed to the earth. A great voice announces that the "accuser of our brethren has been thrown down." Enraged, the dragon persecutes the woman, but she is protected by "two wings of the great eagle" (God's deliverance, Exodus 19). The serpent then pours a flood (either literal water or slander/propaganda) from his mouth to destroy her, but the earth helps the woman. Finally, the dragon turns to make war with the "rest of her offspring"—the remnant Jews who adhere to the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus, who overcome him by the "blood of the Lamb" and the "word of their testimony."

This Christmas, we're delighted to bring back one of our most beloved conversations with Enneagram Three, pastor, and author AJ Sherrill. In this replay, AJ joins me to revisit the Nativity story—not as the sentimental tale we often breeze past each year, but as a rich, multilayered narrative pulsing with mystery, courage, vulnerability, and divine surprise. AJ shares his own journey into spiritual direction, what it's teaching him about listening, presence, and compassion, and how the Enneagram continues to shape his inner world. We explore why the season invites us to slow down, pay attention, and resist the frantic pace that so easily numbs our capacity for wonder. Together, we dig beneath the familiar Christmas imagery to uncover the often-misunderstood characters who surround the manger—the homeowner who offered radical hospitality, Zechariah rediscovering awe through silence, and even Herod, whose shadow side has more to teach us than we might expect. Their stories echo our own desires, fears, and growth edges in striking ways. We also have some fun speculating about the Enneagram archetypes present in the Christmas narrative—Mary, Joseph, John the Baptist, and others—and how their unique postures toward God can inspire our own transformation. This episode is thoughtful, illuminating, and sprinkled with the kind of laughter and honesty that always seems to show up when AJ is with us. A perfect listen for Christmas Day. Settle in, take a breath, and join us as we rediscover the story beneath the story—and the God who meets us there.

Merry Christmas! I pray your celebration of Christmas today will be blessed. What part of the Christmas story is your favorite? Is it the incredible birth of Jesus to a young virgin girl? Her role in life was anything but easy, but Scripture says she was blessed among women. Or you could choose the story of the angels appearing to the shepherds. What a sight that must have been! I keep imagining how frightened those shepherds were at first. And we know after they saw the baby Jesus, they told everyone all about it. I wonder if their friends and family believed them? I wonder if it just seemed like a foolish tale to those who heard it? But have you ever thought about the mothers of the baby boys who were slaughtered by Herod because of his paranoia? When he heard from the wise men that a king of the Jews was born, he wanted to make sure no one would ever threaten his reign as King of Judea, and so he insanely ordered all baby boys under two years old in the Bethlehem region to be slaughtered. What about the mother who gets a loud knock on her door—or her door busted down—as Roman soldiers come in and snatch her baby boy from her? Maybe he was just beginning to walk; maybe it was her first child; maybe she had been barren for a long time and finally this baby was born to her. And now, she watches helplessly as he is ruthlessly taken from her and slaughtered. Why? Because there was some remote chance he might be the king Herod heard about. Was she given any explanation? I doubt it. Had she even heard the Christ-child had been born in Bethlehem? Probably not. What reason was there to kill her baby because of this unknown king baby? All she is left with are questions and grief and empty arms. The prophet Jeremiah predicted it: A voice was heard in Ramah, weeping and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be comforted, because they are no more (Matthew 2:18). It was a high price paid by many mothers that first Christmas. Yet the baby Jesus was born to die and his mother watched him die about 34 years later, perishing on a cross, paying the debt for your sins and mine. Think anew this Christmas about all that took place that first Christmas, so that you and I could have forgiveness and peace through the death, burial, and resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Christ the KingHerod felt hostility toward Him. And though they knew the prophecies, the scribes and chief priests were indifferent to Him. But the Magi—the king-makers—were supernaturally led over great distances to come and worship the King of Kings.Now is the time to examine what place Jesus holds in our own hearts.

Merry Christmas and thank-you for joining us on this beautiful Christmas Day. In the midst of all the family gatherings, gift giving, football and Christmas movies today we want to pause to consider what Christmas should remind us of. Pastor John Randall opens Matthew chapter two where we encounter three very different groups of people… the Wisemen, Herod and the Scribes. Through it all we'll be challenged by this question, “What are you searching for this Christmas?” To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1368/29?v=20251111

The Book of Revelation provides us with a wondrous vision today.   There are loud voices in heaven saying, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever” [Ch.11 v.15].   Then the elders fall on their faces and worship saying, “We give thanks to you Lord God Almighty, who is and who was, for you have taken your great power and begun to reign.  The nations raged, but your wrath came and the time for the dead to be judged and for rewarding your servants the prophets and saints. And those who fear your name, both small and great, and for destroying the destroyers of the earth” [v.17/18]What a day of incredible thanksgiving this will be.   We should see the present human celebrations surrounding the Christmas period for all its emptiness.  What are people giving thanks for today?  It is the passing ‘pleasure' of the moment!   The children enjoy themselves and we recall Paul's observation “When I was a child … I reasoned like a child. When I became a man I gave up childish ways.” [1 Cor. 13 v.11]. Paul also said, “remember … Jesus how he himself said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive'” [Acts 20 v.35] – we must teach our children this principle.  Do any of the children in the world (or their parents) learn anything real about Jesus? It seems impossible to think so, but God knows. Wherever opportunity offers we should “speak a word in season” to help them to do so.  It is interesting that only twice in the Bible is there any mention of celebrating birthdays – and both were those of bad men! [Genesis 40 v.20 – Pharaoh] and [Matthew 12 v.6 – Herod, when John the Baptist lost his head].  The heaven inspired celebration to come will be wondrous, but until that time true believers celebrate not the birthday of Jesus, but his sacrifice and death in the way he appointed [Luke 22 v.15-20], believing in a wondrous climax to that celebration in the kingdom.This wondrous event, called “the marriage supper of the Lamb” is also mentioned in Revelation [19 v.6-9] “Blessed are those who are invited” to that celebration which is far beyond us to imagine!  Do you believe you are worthy of receiving an invitation?  No?  It will be only by his grace!  But who is worthy?  It is interesting that the Gk word for ‘worthy' is one of the words  which occur seven times in the book – but only its first occurrence (ch, 3 v.4) is one that indicates saints that are worthy of receiving a  blessing before God; the last (ch. 16 v.6) is about those unworthy. Once again, the broad and narrow ways – make sure you on the “rewarding” pathway of the “worthy” in 2021

To become a follower of Jesus, visit: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/MeetJesus (NOT a Morning Mindset resource) ⇒ TODAY'S DAILY SPONSOR: An anonymous listener is sponsoring today’s episode, with thanks to Tacho for sharing the daily mindset with her as they grow close with Christ. You can sponsor a daily episode of the Morning Mindset too, by going to https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/DailySponsor ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Matthew 2:16–18 - Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, became furious, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old or under, according to the time that he had ascertained from the wise men. [17] Then was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Jeremiah: [18] “A voice was heard in Ramah, weeping and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be comforted, because they are no more.” (ESV) ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FINANCIALLY SUPPORT THE MORNING MINDSET: (not tax-deductible) -- Become a monthly partner: https://mm-gfk-partners.supercast.com/ -- Support a daily episode: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/daily-sponsor/ -- Give one-time: https://give.cornerstone.cc/careygreen -- Venmo: @CareyNGreen ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FOREIGN LANGUAGE VERSIONS OF THIS PODCAST: SPANISH version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Spanish HINDI version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Hindi CHINESE version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Chinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ CONTACT: Carey@careygreen.com  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ THEME MUSIC: “King’s Trailer” – Creative Commons 0 | Provided by https://freepd.com/ ***All NON-ENGLISH versions of the Morning Mindset are translated using A.I. Dubbing and Translation tools from DubFormer.ai ***All NON-ENGLISH text content (descriptions and titles) are translated using the A.I. functionality of Google Translate.

Share a commentThe hush before the first carol was not empty—it was charged. We step into the holy place with Zacharias, incense curling upward, when Gabriel appears and declares that the long night is ending. This is where Christmas begins: with a promise spoken into fear, a calling placed on an aging couple, and the first shockwave of good news that will roll from a quiet temple to a manger and beyond.We walk through the world of Herod's Judea and the deep ache of barrenness that marked Zacharias and Elizabeth, showing how faith endures when culture misreads suffering. Then the scene opens: a once-in-a-lifetime priestly duty, a famous messenger blazing with authority, and a message rooted in Malachi's prophecy. Their son will prepare the people, turn hearts, and ready a nation for the Messiah. Along the way, we explore why angels matter without making them the main act—how Scripture positions them as servants of God's redemptive plan and why the first New Testament use of “good news” comes from an angelic voice.Doubt doesn't disqualify; it gets refined. Zacharias asks for proof, and Gabriel answers with presence: I stand in the presence of God. The sign is silence—hard, humbling, and holy—until promise becomes reality. When John is born, the sunrise from on high is named and the dawn truly breaks. If you've wrestled with unanswered prayers, wondered about angelic ministry, or wanted to see how the Christmas story actually starts, this journey through Luke 1 will steady your hope and sharpen your vision.If this story stirred your faith, share it with a friend, subscribe for part two on Gabriel's message to Mary, and leave a review so others can find the good news that still breaks the dark.Support the showStephen's latest book, The Disciples Prayer, is available now. https://www.wisdomonline.org/store/view/the-disciples-prayer-hardback

Share a commentThe hush before the first carol was not empty—it was charged. We step into the holy place with Zacharias, incense curling upward, when Gabriel appears and declares that the long night is ending. This is where Christmas begins: with a promise spoken into fear, a calling placed on an aging couple, and the first shockwave of good news that will roll from a quiet temple to a manger and beyond.We walk through the world of Herod's Judea and the deep ache of barrenness that marked Zacharias and Elizabeth, showing how faith endures when culture misreads suffering. Then the scene opens: a once-in-a-lifetime priestly duty, a famous messenger blazing with authority, and a message rooted in Malachi's prophecy. Their son will prepare the people, turn hearts, and ready a nation for the Messiah. Along the way, we explore why angels matter without making them the main act—how Scripture positions them as servants of God's redemptive plan and why the first New Testament use of “good news” comes from an angelic voice.Doubt doesn't disqualify; it gets refined. Zacharias asks for proof, and Gabriel answers with presence: I stand in the presence of God. The sign is silence—hard, humbling, and holy—until promise becomes reality. When John is born, the sunrise from on high is named and the dawn truly breaks. If you've wrestled with unanswered prayers, wondered about angelic ministry, or wanted to see how the Christmas story actually starts, this journey through Luke 1 will steady your hope and sharpen your vision.If this story stirred your faith, share it with a friend, subscribe for part two on Gabriel's message to Mary, and leave a review so others can find the good news that still breaks the dark.Support the showStephen's latest book, The Disciples Prayer, is available now. https://www.wisdomonline.org/store/view/the-disciples-prayer-hardback

Shortly after hearing about the birth of Jesus, Herod the king tried to have the child murdered. Indeed, Herod's oppressive rule and the predations of the Roman state play a huge role in the Christmas story.Original article: https://mises.org/mises-wire/reclaiming-antistate-roots-christmas

Did you ever wonder what happened to all the gold, frankincense, and myrrh the wisemen gave to baby Jesus? I'm looking at some unusual things about the Christmas story you may never have thought of before. We don't know how many wisemen followed the star to Jesus or how long it took them, but we know they somehow heard about it, for they asked, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” I'm wondering how they knew a baby was to be born king of the Jews, when it seems the Jewish people themselves had no idea their Messiah was born that night in Bethlehem. And furthermore, they came this long distance from a foreign land to worship him. It took weeks, probably months, to get there. What about those gifts? No doubt they were worth more money than Joseph or Mary had ever seen at one time in their life. What did they do with those riches? Well, we know soon after the wise men left, Herod determined to kill all the baby boys two years and under in Bethlehem because he wanted no rival king in his kingdom. That's when an angel told Joseph to take Mary and the baby and get out of Bethlehem. Go to Egypt to save Jesus from being killed. For an extended time, they lived in Egypt, a foreign land, with no relatives and no job. What did they live on? Gold, frankincense, and myrrh, don't you think? God no doubt sent those wise men with those expensive gifts to find Jesus and provide for the support of this young family while they were in exile. The story of the wise men is fascinating in many respects. They were not Jewish, yet they came to worship a Jewish king. They recognized him as the king of the Jews, yet John 1 tells us Jesus came unto his own and his own received him not. Thankfully, it doesn't stop there, for then John says, Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God (John 1:12). That would include the wisemen, right? And it includes you and me as well—those who have received the one born to die for us and rise again to conquer death. When you personally know Jesus as your Savior by grace through faith, then every day is a celebration—right? Christmas 2025 gives us many reasons to be joyful and celebrate.

This Christmas Eve, Hannah and Barbi slow things down for a thoughtful, meaningful conversation about the season. They reflect on Christmases past, explore the fascinating history behind beloved Christmas songs, and spend time unpacking the story of Jesus' birth - including the historical context and the unsettling reality of King Herod's reign.Along the way, they talk about parenting and how raising children so often mirrors the heart of the Gospel, share a few cozy traditions (yes, including figgy pudding), and sprinkle in plenty of classic Hannah-and-Barbi bird walks. And before the episode wraps, Hannah and Casey share a big surprise that just might keep you listening until the end.It's a warm, reflective, Christmas Eve episode meant to be listened to with the lights low, the tree glowing, and your heart open.

Shortly after hearing about the birth of Jesus, Herod the king tried to have the child murdered. Indeed, Herod's oppressive rule and the predations of the Roman state play a huge role in the Christmas story.Original article: https://mises.org/mises-wire/reclaiming-antistate-roots-christmas

Rev. Austin Pfeiffer shows how the Christmas story reveals a deep human power struggle: from Rachel's tears to Herod's fear, Matthew is exposing our anxiety-driven desire to control what only God can rule. Herod becomes a mirror of our own hearts, where fear of losing our “little kingdoms” leads us to resist Christ the King. Advent invites us to lay down that anxious control and find true freedom by surrendering to the King who conquers not through violence, but through self-giving love.

Is the Christmas story based on blind faith—or solid historical evidence? In this special Christmas episode of Bible and Theology Matters, Paul Weaver explores how biblical archaeology directly affirms the historicity of the Christmas story. From ancient Babylonian ration tablets to the massive stone architecture of Herod the Great, archaeology confirms the people, places, and political realities described in the Gospels.

This Christmas at Grace, Pastor Zach Pinkerton goes through the messy Christmas story in Matthew 2. We see Herod's response to Jesus's birth and are challenged in our own response to this.

Join us at Beaver Baptist Church for our Advent series. 

Merrrrry Kurisumasu !! Spirit Force Frontlines brings a lot of what some may call delusions of grandeur but what we understand to be our full Inheritance in Heaven from our Loving Heavenly Father! Matthew 2:1 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, 2:2 Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. 2:3 When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 2:4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. 2:5 And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet, 2:6 And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel. 2:7 Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared. 2:8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also. 2:9 When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. 2:10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. 2:11 And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. 2:12 And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way. 2:13 And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him. 2:14 When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt: 2:15 And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son. 2:16 Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently enquired of the wise men. 2:17 Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying, 2:18 In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not. 2:19 But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, 2:20 Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child's life. 2:21 And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into the land of Israel. 2:22 But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judaea in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee: 2:23 And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene. Faithbucks.com

What was the Star of Bethlehem? A miraculous light? An angel? A comet? Attorney and biblical researcher Caleb Jones brings a library of books and years of astronomical study to the basement to present the most compelling answer we've ever heard: the Star of the Magi was the combined light of Jupiter and Venus merging into a single point of light in the sky, not once, but twice.On August 12, 3 BC, a rare planetary conjunction appeared in the eastern sky for just ninety minutes before dawn and was visible only to those whose job it was to watch the stars. Ten months later, on June 17, 2 BC, an even more spectacular once-in-a-millennium conjunction occurred, visible to everyone, setting over the hill of Bethlehem at the exact location tradition holds as the house of Joseph and Mary.Caleb walks us through astronomy, ancient calendars, the chronology of Herod's death, the census of Quirinius, and why the world still counts time based on the reign of Jesus Christ. This isn't just about solving a Christmas mystery. It's about how God speaks to people where they are and even through systems He told Israel not to use. The Magi were pagan astrologers doing pagan astrology, and God used the very stars they were watching to lead them to His Son. They arrived with gold, frankincense, and myrrh, and they worshiped. The star wasn't magic. It was astronomy. And somehow, that makes it even more miraculous. Merry Christmas from Blurry Creatures! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To become a follower of Jesus, visit: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/MeetJesus (NOT a Morning Mindset resource) ⇒ BECOME A MONTHLY PARTNER: (not tax-deductible) You can find out how to become a monthly partner including how to receive your "thank you" gift - our bonus podcast called "Digging Deeper." God t: https://mm-gfk-partners.supercast.com/ ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Matthew 2:13–15 - Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” [14] And he rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed to Egypt [15] and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, “Out of Egypt I called my son.” (ESV) ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FINANCIALLY SUPPORT THE MORNING MINDSET: (not tax-deductible) -- Become a monthly partner: https://mm-gfk-partners.supercast.com/ -- Support a daily episode: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/daily-sponsor/ -- Give one-time: https://give.cornerstone.cc/careygreen -- Venmo: @CareyNGreen ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FOREIGN LANGUAGE VERSIONS OF THIS PODCAST: SPANISH version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Spanish HINDI version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Hindi CHINESE version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Chinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ CONTACT: Carey@careygreen.com  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ THEME MUSIC: “King’s Trailer” – Creative Commons 0 | Provided by https://freepd.com/ ***All NON-ENGLISH versions of the Morning Mindset are translated using A.I. Dubbing and Translation tools from DubFormer.ai ***All NON-ENGLISH text content (descriptions and titles) are translated using the A.I. functionality of Google Translate.

Interruptions. We hate them. They mess with our schedules, our comfort, our control. But what if the interruptions in your life are actually invitations from God?In this episode of the Emotionally Healthy Leader Podcast, Pete Scazzero unpacks how the Christmas story is filled with divine disruptions—from Mary and Joseph, to Herod, to the Magi, and even the religious leaders of the day. Each response to interruption reveals something profound about our own leadership, our spiritual formation, and the God we serve.Pete invites you to consider:What interruptions are coming your way right now?Are you resisting, ignoring, or receiving them?And what practices can help you stop, listen, and respond like Mary did: “May it be to me as you have said.”This episode is a vital listen as we enter the holidays and close out the year. God is still interrupting lives—and He may be trying to get your attention.

PRE-ORDER HOLY GHOSTED HERE! https://www.amazon.com/Holy-Ghosted-Teaches-Surviving-Spiritual/dp/1636415431    Monologue: Autumn encapsulates her family's views on their Christmas season traditions.   Message: Autumn dives deep into the history embedded in the beginning of the gospel according to Luke, and she imparts wisdom for believers today and how to handle the Herod in their stories.    Testimony: Autumn shares her heartfelt gratitude for all of YOUR immense support this year, from listening to the show to pre-ordering her book and all the other ways you support Autumn Miles Ministries.    Bible References Luke 1 Matthew 1   Links from the show BOOKS: www.autumnmiles.com/resources SPEAKING: www.autumnmiles.com/speaking MERCH: autumnmiles.square.site   If you are interested in becoming a sponsor of the show, send us an email at hello@autumnmiles.com   If you have a suggestion for the ministry, a question for Autumn, a testimony to share, or other inquiry for the Autumn Miles Ministries, click here and fill out the form, or send us an email at hello@autumnmiles.com    Join us on social media! Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheAutumnMiles/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/autumnmiles/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AutumnMiles   Click here to join our weekly and monthly newsletters and get updates on our podcast and exclusive content! If you feel led to give to the Autumn Miles Ministries, click here to donate. Thank you for supporting Autumn Miles Ministries!

Let us remember that nothing is a substitute for earnest prayer. Nothing can take its place. Today's church does many important things, but we must make prayer a priority. Main Points:1. This is a remarkable story of God's power and deliverance, but what stands out to me the most from this story is the commitment of the church to prayer. This miracle happened in the middle of the night. The church was not asleep because they knew the next day Peter would be put on trial. The church was having an all-night prayer meeting to ask God to protect Peter.2. It was a desperate situation but I believe they remembered that Jesus told them to “ask and it will be given you.” The Greek word tells us that they were “straining in prayer”.  It was not a casual prayer, “Lord, bless Peter tonight.” No, it was a desperate prayer, a fervent prayer, and an earnest prayer. They were seeking God. They were crying out to God for Peter's deliverance. This is intercessory prayer.3. When was the last time you gathered with other believers and prayed an earnest prayer? Let's recommit ourselves to prayer. The God who hears will answer.Today's Scripture Verses:Acts 12:5-10 -  “So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him. The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance. Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. “Quick, get up!” he said, and the chains fell off Peter's wrists. Then the angel said to him, “Put on your clothes and sandals.” And Peter did so. “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me,” the angel told him. Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision. They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him.”James 5:16 - “The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.”Mark 11:17 - “My house shall be called a house of prayer.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Send us a textAdvent has always been messy, whether we've realized it or not. Herod was on the throne. Life be lifing for Mary and Joseph.  Jesus was born into a world searching for hope, not unlike the moment we are in. That night was many things: exhausting, scary, surprising, painful, anything but silent. God met the world right where it was at then, and he can meet us in this moment, too. Join Markus Lloyd and Antwuan Malone for a conversation about Advent._____________________________Podcast Subscription LinksApple Podcast: coloredcommentary.com/appleSpotify: coloredcommentary.com/spotifyGoogle Podcasts: coloredcommentary.com/googleStitcher: coloredcommentary.com/stitcherIHeart Radio: coloredcommentary.com/iheartradio

Matthew 2:1–12 reminds us that truly wise people keep seeking Jesus until they find Him, even when the path is long, surprising, or humble. The Magi likely came from Persia, guided first by Scripture (Daniel, Numbers 24:17) and then by a God-given “star” that behaved more like the Old Testament pillar of fire—personal, precise, and faithful. Herod's fear contrasts with their worship; when they finally meet the Child—not in a palace but in a simple house—they fall down before Him and offer treasures that preach: gold for the King, frankincense for our Great High Priest, and myrrh for the Prophet who would suffer and save. God still leads seekers this way—through His Word, by His Spirit, to His Son—and obedience always ends in joy. - Ed Rea - Sunday, December 21, 2025

1 Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and Philip his brother tetrarch of Iturea, and the country of Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilina;Anno autem quintodecimo imperii Tiberii Caesaris, procurante Pontio Pilato Judaeam, tetrarcha autem Galiaeae Herode, Philippo autem fratre ejus tetrarcha Ituraeae, et Trachonitidis regionis, et Lysania Abilinae tetrarcha, 2 Under the high priests Annas and Caiphas; the word of the Lord was made unto John, the son of Zachary, in the desert.sub principibus sacerdotum Anna et Caipha : factum est verbum Domini super Joannem, Zachariae filium, in deserto. 3 And he came into all the country about the Jordan, preaching the baptism of penance for the remission of sins;Et venit in omnem regionem Jordanis, praedicans baptismum poenitentiae in remissionem peccatorum, 4 As it was written in the book of the sayings of Isaias the prophet: A voice of one crying in the wilderness: Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight his paths.sicut scriptum est in libro sermonum Isaiae prophetae : Vox clamantis in deserto : Parate viam Domini; rectas facite semitas ejus : 5 Every valley shall be filled; and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight; and the rough ways plain;omnis vallis implebitur, et omnis mons, et collis humiliabitur : et erunt prava in directa, et aspera in vias planas : 6 And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.et videbit omnis caro salutare Dei.

Saint Joseph's FaithfulnessMatthew 1:18-25 “This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit.  Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.  But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”  All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”).  When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife.   But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son.  And he gave him the name Jesus.I thought since Christmas is coming, I would focus on that this week.  Today I want to focus on Saint Joseph.  I think he is someone that we don't talk about enough.  Everyone I know who has read or learned more about Saint Joseph just keeps talking about how incredible he was.  Let's talk about the different things in this verse.The verse begins by describing how they were pledged to be married, but before they were together, he found out that Mary was pregnant.  Joseph now finds himself stuck because it says he is faithful to the law.  He wants to follow the law, and yet, according to the law, back in the day, if a woman was caught cheating on her husband, she was to be stoned to death.  Joseph didn't want to disobey the law, and he also didn't want to publicly disgrace Mary.  He was a good man, and so he was going to quietly divorce her to keep her from all of that.  However, he was visited by an angel in his dream before he could do anything.  This angel explained what was going on and told Joseph to name the baby Jesus.  Can you imagine being visited by an angel in your sleep?  When I was little, I used to imagine what it would be like to have an angel come and visit me, like Mary or Joseph.  I wondered what it would feel like.  I wondered if I would believe what I was seeing.  I wonder how Joseph felt when he woke up from that dream?  Did he know it was a visit from a real angel and not just a normal dream right away?  I wonder why the angel came to Joseph in a dream, but to Mary when she was awake.  I think it is hard for us to imagine what it would feel like, as it is so foreign to most of us.  I like to think things were different back then.  It was easier for them to believe because they lived in a time when there weren't so many distractions or when the faith was stronger.  However, I don't think, even back then, it was a common occurrence to be visited by an angel.  I don't know that those around them would have any easier time believing it than we would.  Yet, Joseph did believe, and he did obey.Joseph had a choice, just like Mary did.  Joseph could have decided that it was all just a dream.  He could have believed that Mary had cheated on him, and he could have left her.  However, he made a choice to stay.  He chose to listen to the angel and to name the baby Jesus.  He was faithful to the Lord, and he raised Jesus as his child.  Did you know that Joseph was visited by an angel a second time in a dream?  This time was right after the Magi visited baby Jesus.  Matthew 2:13-15 recounts, “ When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.”  So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt, where he stayed until the death of Herod. And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: “Out of Egypt I called my son.”Again, Joseph had a choice to make.  His wife had just given birth recently.  He had a baby, and I am sure they were all tired as she gave birth in a manger.  I can't imagine they were getting great sleep there.  Then the angel of God tells Joseph to get up in the middle of the night and take his wife and baby to Egypt.  Remember the first time the angel visited he was told that what he was asked to do was to help fulfill the Lord's word through a prophet, “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” Now the angel is asking Joseph a second time to fulfill the Lord's word, “Out of Egypt I called my son.”  The benefit that Joseph has over many of us is that he would have been well-versed on the Old Testament prophets since he was a Jewish man.  The Jewish males went to school/class to study the Jewish scriptures.I wonder if knowing about all these scriptures or words from the prophets made it easier or harder to say yes?  I wonder if knowing what he was getting into made it harder or easier.  I am not sure I would want to know the fate of my child if it were to suffer as Christ suffered.  I wonder if knowing all he knew about Jesus and what he was to become added pressure on Joseph as a father.  I think most parents feel pressure to be a good parent.  We feel like we don't want to mess our children up.  When they are babies, they are completely dependent on us, and as they grow, they want to become more independent.  However, I don't think that sense of responsibility for our children ever goes away.  I can just imagine the pressure that I felt not to mess my kids up too badly would be multiplied by 100,000 if I knew I was raising God's child.  I am hoping it wasn't like this for Mary and Joseph.  I am hoping that they didn't feel constant pressure to measure up or to be perfect.  I like to think that they were able to be a somewhat regular family at the time.  Although I am sure it was super stressful when Jesus stayed back in the temple to talk to the teachers when they left.  I can't imagine not knowing where my child was for that long.  I did actually lose my child at a fair once, and although it was less than 5 minutes real time, it felt like a million years.  I can't imagine if I had to have that feeling for days.  I know things were always perfect for them, but I hope that they were able to raise Jesus without too much pressure to be perfect parents, and also without feeling that they weren't worthy.  The bible doesn't share many interactions with Joseph in the bible, but you can tell by the reverence that Jesus had with Mary that he was very respectful to his parents.  Joseph had two more dreams where an angel appeared to him.  These are described in Matthew 2:19-23, “After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt and said, 'Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child's life are dead.”  So he got up, took the child and his mother, and went to the land of Israel.  But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning in Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Having been warned in a dream, he withdrew to the district of Galilee,  and he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So was fulfilled what was said through the prophets, that he would be called a Nazarene.”  Again, Joseph had a choice, and he said yes.Joseph had several chances to say no, to refuse his destiny or fulfill his purpose, and yet he didn't.  Each time he was given a task, he completed it.  He did not ask questions; it doesn't appear that he argued or did it begrudgingly.  Joseph had four dreams where an angel of God appeared to him and told him to do something, and he said yes.  They were not easy things that the angel was asking him to do, and yet he did them anyway.  I wonder if we would have the same strength?  I wonder if we could stay when we thought we should go?  I wonder if we would move to another country after just having a baby, and then move back.  Joseph was so faithful to do what God wanted him to do.  There is very little that I know about Joseph, but what I do know, I admire.  He had so much strength and so much faith.  I think we could all benefit from getting to know Joseph a little more.  Dear Heavenly Father, I pray that you bless all those listening to this episode today.  Lord, we thank you for choosing Joseph to be Jesus' earthly father.  He was so faithful to your word and your commands.  Help us to be more faithful.  Help us to do what you want us to do, whether we feel like it or not.  Help us to be willing to listen more to Your word, Lord.  We thank you for giving us Mary, Joseph & Jesus.  You are so amazing, and you love us so much to have sacrificed your son for us.  Lord, we ask that you help us keep our hearts and minds focused on you this week and not on the commercialized version of Christmas.  Help us to remember the reason for the season.  We love you, Lord, and we ask all of this in accordance with your will and in Jesus' holy name, Amen!Thank you so much for joining me on this journey to walk boldly with Jesus. I look forward to spending time with you again tomorrow.  Remember, Jesus loves you just as you are, and so do I! Have a blessed day!Today's Word from the Lord was received in August 2025 by a member of my Catholic Charismatic Prayer Group. If you have any questions about the prayer group, these words, or how to join us for a meeting, please email CatholicCharismaticPrayerGroup@gmail.com. Today's Word from the Lord is, “And when they see you, they see me, and they feel my love for them where they are in the condition that they are in.” www.findingtruenorthcoaching.comCLICK HERE TO DONATECLICK HERE to sign up for Mentoring CLICK HERE to sign up for Daily "Word from the Lord" emailsCLICK HERE to sign up for my newsletter & receive a free audio training about inviting Jesus into your daily lifeCLICK HERE to buy my book Total Trust in God's Safe Embrace

IntroductionThere are two kinds of people in God's kingdom. Some are in the covenant line, and others are outside the covenant line. Matthew captures this by showing us that there are insiders (God's covenant people) and outsiders (those who are not directly tied to Abraham by their family line). Matthew addresses the issue of whether or not the outsiders can be part of the family or if those who are inside the family can be outcasts. What determines this classification? Outside God's FamilyMatthew begins with the Magi. These men would be pagan Gentiles from the East. They would be astrologers who would advise kings. These are not men that we would see as sympathetic to the Israelites. However, they follow a start that they see in the distance. They come to the holy city, and they encounter Herod the king. One wonders if they will allow this jealous man to discover Christ and execute him. Well, they protect Christ and seek to worship him. The start that they follow is the fulfillment of Numbers 24:17. The great prophet Balaam was going to control the living God. Ironically, he could only speak the Lord's word. He prophesied the star that would rise from Jacob. This star is promised to be victorious. The star testifies to the fulfillment of God's prophecy through the prophet for hire, Balaam. The men who were supposed to hate God came to worship God. Inside God's FamilyIronically, Jerusalem should rejoice the most. This is the city that literally means, “Vision of Peace.” They should want to commune with God. The vision of peace is communion with the living God. If the messiah has arrived, Jerusalem should celebrate. We read that Herod and all Jerusalem were troubled. How can this city be troubled by the “Prince of Peace” Arriving in the city of peace? The problem is that they love their earthly kingdom and have lost sight of the heavenly one. The problem is that the insiders lost sight of what it means to be insiders. The wise men/magi/magicians/advisoers leave. They see the star and they are exceedingly joyful rather than troubled. One has to continually align with the Lord's priorities as one walks by faith in the Spirit. It does not matter if one has the covenant lineage. It is taking hold of the substance of faith, Jesus Christ, that determines one's identity. In the FamilyThe city of Jerusalem is troubled, but the pagans from the east have exceeding joy when they see the star above Christ's dwelling. They journey to the home. The men who are used to the finest banquets enjoy peasant hospitality. The gifts that they offer call to our attention that the Old Testament promise is realized. Psalm 72, Isaiah, and we think of the Queen of Sheba giving Solomon gifts. This shows that they are pledging homage and honoring Christ as king. The picture here is hilarious. These are very prestitious men who gather together to worship Christ the King. They do this despite the earthly appearance. These men are not threatened by the king or the peasant surroundings. They look beyond what they see with their eyes and see with the eyes of faith that the shalom/peace of heaven does not function on fallen worldly terms. The insiders will see Christ despite our worldly expectations. The Spirit will enlighten us to see who the Lord is. We will respond in faith as we walk in the power of the Spirit. ConclusionChrist came into the world to make strangers into sons and daughters. Those who, like the Magi, lay aside their pride. They bow before Him to worship him despite his humble presentation. They empty themselves of their worldly significance. As a result, they find themselves as members of the household of God. it is only in Christ that one finds their true identity in Christ.

Matthew 2:7–12 - Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. [8] And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” [9] After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. [10] When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. [11] And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. [12] And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way. (ESV) THE EVENING MINDSET IS COMING! Beginning January 1 - 2026 - A new DAILY podcast will be available to help you wind down, reset your mind on God’s truth, and prepare for a night of rest and rejuvenation. “The Daily Mindset” will launch on the podcast player of your choice on January 1, 2026. Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode: https://EveningMindset.com

There are texts like this one where we can't make sense of the suffering. Herod authorizes the killing of thousands of children to protect his political power, and we're left putting God on trial: why would He allow this? But that's why this Jeremiah text is so important: in the midst of the inevitable suffering in this life, the suffering is for God's glory. And what is God's glory? Mercy, peace, and the defeat of sin, death, and the devil. CHALLENGE GRANTA Luther House of Study donor is sponsoring a challenge grant. If you sponsor one podcast episode by the end of the year, another podcast episode will be sponsored on your behalf. If you'd like to have your donation doubled, email Sarah Stenson at sarah@lhos.org or go to lutherhouseofstudy.org/donate CARE OF SOULS - ADDICTIONIn Care of Souls, a special mini-series podcast from Luther House of Study, Lutheran pastors and theologians come together to explore the deeply personal and pastoral task of preaching to and caring for those struggling with life's challenging situations: addiction, death, family disharmony, and more. Rooted in the theology of the cross and the Lutheran tradition of radical grace, this series offers both theological depth and practical guidance for pastors, church workers, and lay leaders.With conversations, real-life stories, and reflections from the front lines of ministry, Care of Souls equips listeners to enter the broken places of addiction not with easy answers, but with the crucified and risen Christ.Because in the end, it's not about fixing people—it's about preaching the Gospel.Listen to Care of Souls wherever you listen to podcasts or on the Luther House website: Care of Souls - AddictionGOSPEL Matthew 2:13-23 13 Now after they had left, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, "Get up, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him." 14 Then Joseph got up, took the child and his mother by night, and went to Egypt, 15 and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet, "Out of Egypt I have called my son." 16 When Herod saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, he was infuriated, and he sent and killed all the children in and around Bethlehem who were two years old or under, according to the time that he had learned from the wise men. 17 Then was fulfilled what had been spoken through the prophet Jeremiah: 18  "A voice was heard in Ramah, wailing and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be consoled, because they are no more." 19 When Herod died, an angel of the Lord suddenly appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt and said, 20 "Get up, take the child and his mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who were seeking the child's life are dead." 21 Then Joseph got up, took the child and his mother, and went to the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus was ruling over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. And after being warned in a dream, he went away to the district of Galilee. 23 There he made his home in a town called Nazareth, so that what had been spoken through the prophets might be fulfilled, "He will be called a Nazorean."Support the showInterested in sponsoring an episode of Scripture First?Email Sarah at sarah@lhos.org or visit our donation page: lutherhouseofstudy.org/donate

In this message, Justin addresses the concept of "main character syndrome"—the tendency to live as if the world revolves around oneself. Using the historical example of King Herod Agrippa I from Acts 12, he illustrates the dangers of extreme ego and the abuse of power. Justin explains that while Herod sought political approval through violence and accepted divine praise for himself, he was ultimately struck down, serving as a warning that glory belongs to God alone.Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

12/21/2026 Rev. Paul Bang Matthew 2:1-11 The Visit of the Wise Men 2 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men[a] from the east came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose[b] and have come to worship him.” 3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; 4 and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. 5 They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet: 6 “‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,     are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler     who will shepherd my people Israel.'” 7 Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” 9 After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 11 And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.

Matthew 2:1-2 | Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” What happens here in the beginning of the New Testament is not God starting something new- Christmas is God fulfilling what He promised. A world broken by sin and hopeless in death, is now given the gift of forgiveness and the hope of eternal life. From the very beginning and all throughout history, God was echoing his love for us by telling of his Son to come.

Daily Dose of Hope December 22, 2025   Scripture - Acts 21:27-40   Prayer:  Dear God, We come to you today with sorrow.  We know that we are sinful and broken.  We know that we have fallen short.  We have been disobedient as individuals and as a church.  Lord, please forgive us and show us your better way.  How we need you.  We are lost without you and our behavior so often speaks to that.  Help us seek holiness.  Help us love others the way you love them.  In these next few moments of silence, Lord, please help us set aside our scattered thoughts and focus on you...  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading.  We have been on a journey, reading through the Gospels and the book of Acts.  Today, we finish with Acts 21.   It doesn't take long before people see Paul and get worked up.  Some Asian Jews, who saw Paul at the Temple, accuse him of bringing a Greek in the Temple (not true) and teaching people to not follow the law (again not true).  Who were these Asian Jews?  They were most likely from the province of Asia Minor (modern day Turkey) and quite possibly from Ephesus.  They could very well have remembered Paul from his extended stay in Ephesus and the various conflicts that arose.   It doesn't take long for a few rabble rousers to work up a riot.  Paul finds himself in the middle of it, being beaten by a mob.  When the Roman soldiers hear about the riot, they rush to figure out what's going on.  What's interesting is that they also make assumptions about Paul and have been bound, to be thrown in the barracks.  It seems no one really cares much for finding the truth.    The main charge brought against Paul was that he brought a Gentile into the Temple. This would be a serious offense. The Jews did not allow women or Gentiles into the central courts of the Temple, believing them to be unclean. Although the Law did not specifically forbid Gentiles from going into the Temple courts, by the first century, Herod the Great had expanded the Temple courts so that there was a large area where everyone was welcome, the Court of the Gentiles.    Despite the fact that the charge is false, no one comes to Paul's defense.  None of the Jewish believers, who must have seen the whole thing, say a word.  While this was out of fear, for sure, it is still surprising.  Silence, as we know, always empowers wrongdoers.   Let's talk about silence for a moment.  There is good silence, like being silent before the Lord, and then there is bad silence, like not standing up for what is right.  Bullies exist because the majority stays silent.  Martin Luther King, Jr., famously said, "In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends," emphasizing that friends' lack of support is deeply painful and is what enables injustice.  Unfortunately, we have seen this over centuries in the church.  We saw it with Jesus and the disciples.  We see it in the early church.  We saw it during the persecutions of the first several centuries and through many wars.  How many Christians stood in fear and watched the Nazis murder millions of helpless Jews?  How many Christians have been silent in the face of slavery, racism, and gross injustice across our own nation?   What are the main forces of injustice in our world right now?  Where has the church stood up and done the right thing and where have we been silent?  What about you?   More tomorrow.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki      

What if the thing you “protect” most is silently telling the world what you worship? We explore how Advent pressure exposes our true priorities and why the Magi's long, ordinary journey reframes generosity as a truthful act of worship—not a performance. Outsiders notice the star and move; insiders cling to familiarity; Herod hears the same news and tightens his grip. That split-screen reveals a deeper diagnosis: fear imitates worship without surrender, while trust begins with attention and moves us toward joyful obedience.We walk through Matthew 2 and slow down at a crucial detail: the Magi bow before they give. Their gifts—gold for kingship, frankincense for divinity, myrrh for suffering—are not payments to earn favor but confessions of belief. We also correct the nostalgic timeline: no manger scene here, but a home and a toddler. The wonder has cooled, the dust has settled, and still they kneel. Real worship often lives there, in patient faithfulness that persists when the spotlight fades.From there, we connect Jesus' words in Matthew 6 to everyday choices: where your treasure is, your heart will follow. Earthly security feels solid because it is visible and controllable, yet that very control makes it fragile. Heavenly treasure requires trust, which is why it endures. If holding tight feels safer, generosity will always look like risk. If God is our security, open hands become wise. We offer a practical step to reorient your life: name one place where fear is steering your finances and practice quiet, intentional generosity there—receiving before responding, letting giving reshape your heart rather than prove your devotion.If this conversation helps you notice, name, and reorder what you truly treasure, share it with a friend, subscribe for more, and leave a quick review to help others find the show. What's the one area you'll open your hands this week?Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at help@madisonchurch.com. For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly! If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content. This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

This episode originally aired on December 5, 2022. Matthew begins his biography of Jesus with a genealogy. Although a genealogy seems like something we should skip, it's surprising who we find listed in Jesus' family tree. It's also amazing that Matthew didn't hesitate to include some of these individuals. From those he includes, we're provided a great reminder that no one is beyond the grace of God. Matthew, unlike John, further shares the details concerning Jesus' birth. However, he also includes that Jesus' birth causes Herod to have every boy two years old and under killed in Bethlehem. This and many other details in Matthew's account help us see that Jesus' birth involved real people with very real hardships.Passage: Matthew 1-2Support the show

From the innkeeper to Herod to the religious leaders, this message challenges us to stop overlooking Christ at Christmas and invites us to see Jesus clearly in the middle of the season's noise, traditions, and familiarity.

Matthew 2:1–8 - Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea @in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, [2] saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” [3] When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; [4] and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. [5] They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet: [6] “‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’” [7] Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. [8] And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” (ESV) THE EVENING MINDSET IS COMING! Beginning January 1 - 2026 - A new DAILY podcast will be available to help you wind down, reset your mind on God’s truth, and prepare for a night of rest and rejuvenation. “The Daily Mindset” will launch on the podcast player of your choice on January 1, 2026. Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode: https://EveningMindset.com

What if the greatest gift of Christmas isn't something you give or receive—but the One you choose to bow down to? The Magi traveled nearly 800 miles on little more than a prophecy and a star, believing that if the promised King had truly come, He was worth seeking at all costs. In Week 3 of Real Men of Christmas, we look at these wise men—not for their crowns or status, but for their posture. While Herod clung tightly to his own throne and the religious leaders stayed comfortable in tradition, the Magi refused to miss Jesus. They followed God's prompting, bowed before the true King, and opened their treasures in extravagant worship. Pastor Joby unpacks why their response still matters today: because every one of us approaches Jesus like Herod, the religious leaders, or the Magi. And the gifts we bring reveal what we believe about Him—our King, our Christ, our Savior. As we celebrate Christmas and partner with Compassion International to love “the least of these,” this message invites us to examine our hearts, our worship, and the direction of our lives. What gift will you bring to Jesus this Christmas—and which direction will He lead you next?

Pastor Spencer walks through Matthew 2:1-15, tracing the very different responses to the birth of Jesus, from worship to hostility, from joy to indifference. As the wise men search for the newborn King, King Herod responds with fear and resistance, revealing that while there are many ways to reject Jesus, there is only one way to truly receive Him. This message invites us to examine our own hearts and consider how we respond to Jesus as King. In a world marked by grief, power struggles, and uncertainty, we are reminded that God is near, His purposes are unfolding, and darkness does not get the final word. In this message, we see: - How God draws all kinds of people to Himself using all kinds of circumstances - Why many reject Jesus—not only through open hostility, like Herod, but through quiet indifference - The tension we feel when Jesus' kingship confronts our desire for control - Why Scripture is essential for truly knowing where God is leading us - What it looks like to receive Jesus by faith through joy, worshipful submission, and generosity - How the gifts of the wise men point not only to a King, but to a Savior who would suffer and die in our place - This sermon reminds us that although grief, opposition, and suffering are real, death and darkness do not have the final word. Jesus, the true and better King, entered our broken world not to take power—but to give His life, inviting us to receive Him by faith.

Notes Matthew 2:13-23 Isaiah 63:7-9 Hebrews 2:10-18 Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler discuss the lectionary readings for the first Sunday of Christmas, focusing on Matthew 2:13-23, the flight to Egypt, and the implications of Herod's tyranny. They explore themes of hospitality, the significance of the Old Testament connections, and the faithfulness of God as highlighted in Isaiah 63. The conversation also delves into the humanity of Christ as presented in Hebrews 2, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of the incarnation in today's context. Takeaways The podcast discusses the lectionary readings for the first Sunday of Christmas. Attendance challenges during the holiday season are common for many churches. The flight to Egypt is a significant and often overlooked part of the Christmas story. Herod's actions reflect the tyranny and fear of oppressive regimes. The theme of hospitality is crucial in the context of the Holy Family's journey. Connections between the Old Testament and New Testament are explored. Isaiah 63 highlights God's faithfulness amidst human struggles. Hebrews 2 emphasizes the humanity of Christ and his understanding of human suffering. The ongoing relevance of the incarnation is discussed in relation to modern issues. The podcast encourages reflection on the themes of hope and redemption. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Pulpit Fiction Podcast 02:47 Reflections on Christmas and Attendance Challenges 06:00 Exploring the Gospel Reading: Matthew 2:13-23 12:09 The Significance of the Flight to Egypt 18:01 Herod's Tyranny and the Theme of Refugees 23:50 The Role of Hospitality in the Holy Family's Journey 30:11 Connecting the Old Testament and New Testament Themes 35:46 Isaiah 63: God's Faithfulness Amidst Human Struggles 42:03 Understanding Hebrews 2: The Humanity of Christ 47:50 The Ongoing Relevance of the Incarnation 54:09 Conclusion and Reflections on the Podcast  

Welcome to the Harvest Bible Chapel sermon podcast. This week, we continue our Christmas series, Birth of the King, with a message titled “Wise Men and a Foolish King,” from Matthew 2:1–12. In this familiar passage, Matthew places two responses to Jesus side by side: the fearful resistance of King Herod and the humble, joyful worship of the wise men. As the story unfolds, we're invited to examine our own hearts. Do we cling to control like Herod, threatened by the idea of another King? Or do we seek Jesus as our greatest treasure, bowing before Him in worship? Wherever you're listening from, we pray this message helps you see the beauty, authority, and worth of Christ—and leads you to respond to Him with faith and joy. Executive Producer: Flavius Herlo Speaker: Pastor Jeff Bucknam Sound design, mixing, and editing: Bryan Tripp Graphic Design: Wesley Cassford Social Media: Bryan Spahr Producer: Dave Putnam WE INVITE YOU TO CONNECT WITH US: • Website: www.harvestbible.org/ WE INVITE YOU TO FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: • Instagram: @harvestbiblechapel • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harvestbiblechapel/

Matthew 2:1-12 I Andrew Murch I Off the FenceMatthew 2:1-12 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet: “ ‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.' ” Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them whattime the star had appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.I. News of Christ threatens those who resist him. (1-9a)a. Those drawing near to Christ come from far way. (1-2)b. Those long expecting Christ are surprisingly troubled. (3-9a)II. Jesus gives joy to those who worship him. (9b-12)a. The wise men experience great joy. (9b-10)b. The true king deserves all worship. (11-12)Whether worshipped or rejected, Jesus reigns.

We trace the Magi's gifts—frankincense, myrrh, and gold—to their deeper meaning and land on the claim that changes everything: Jesus isn't a symbolic figurehead but a King like no other, who chose humility over hype and compassion over control.We get honest about expectations. People wanted a palace-born ruler; they got a child in a cave who grew up to touch lepers, welcome outcasts, and overturn the tables we keep polishing. From there, we map three timeless responses: Herod opposed Him to protect his throne, the priests dismissed Him with tidy theology, and the Magi traveled far to bow low. That pattern still fits our lives. Control, apathy, or worship—one of them is shaping our choices, our peace, and our future.Support the showMade a decision to follow Jesus? We want to know about it! Fill out our connect card here: https://local.churchcenter.com/people/forms/115766Thank you for your generosity. For information on how to give, visit https://localvineyard.church/give.

Today’s Topics: 1) Gospel – Luke 1:5-25 – In the days of Herod, King of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah of the priestly division of Abijah; his wife was from the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. Both were righteous in the eyes of God, observing all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blamelessly. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren and both were advanced in years. Once when he was serving as priest in his division's turn before God, according to the practice of the priestly service, he was chosen by lot to enter the sanctuary of the Lord to burn incense. Then, when the whole assembly of the people was praying outside at the hour of the incense offering, the angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right of the altar of incense. Zechariah was troubled by what he saw, and fear came upon him. But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, because your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall name him John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He will drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit even from his mother's womb, and he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah to turn the hearts of fathers toward children and the disobedient to the understanding of the righteous, to prepare a people fit for the Lord.” Then Zechariah said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years.” And the angel said to him in reply, “I am Gabriel, who stand before God. I was sent to speak to you and to announce to you this good news. But now you will be speechless and unable to talk until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled at their proper time.” Meanwhile the people were waiting for Zechariah and were amazed that he stayed so long in the sanctuary. But when he came out, he was unable to speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a vision in the sanctuary. He was gesturing to them but remained mute. Then, when his days of ministry were completed, he went home. After this time his wife Elizabeth conceived, and she went into seclusion for five months, saying, “So has the Lord done for me at a time when he has seen fit to take away my disgrace before others.” Bishop Sheen quote of the day