Podcasts about Wise men

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In today's devotional, Dr. Michael A. Youssef explains the arrival of the Wise Men onto the scene of the young Savior. This devotional is adapted from MY Journal, Leading The Way's monthly devotional magazine. Sign up now for a free six-month subscription to MY Journal—Dr. Youssef's gift to you.If you would like more insight into today's devotional topic, watch or listen to Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon Let's Go to Bethlehem: WATCH NOW | LISTEN NOWIf you enjoy listening to the MY Devotional podcast, would you consider partnering with us to proclaim the hope of Christ to a world in darkness by giving a year-end gift? This month, your gift will have double the impact through our December Gift Challenge! Leading The Way is reaching the lost and equipping the saints 24/7 through television, radio, online outreaches, discipleship resources, evangelistic events, Field Teams, and more. Dr. Youssef's Biblically-based messages are broadcast in 28 languages to audiences across six continents — passionately proclaiming uncompromising Truth worldwide.Join us!

DAY 18 — Wise Men & the True KingStrangers from the East followed a star and bowed before a Child while a jealous king raged nearby. Today we explore the difference between Herod's hostility and the wise men's worship. What does it mean to truly seek the King? Advent calls us to offer Jesus our joy, our gifts, and our lives.

Luke 2:1–12, Isaiah 11:1–2 , & 2 Corinthians 8:9 In today's Advent story, we step into the peaceful, wonder-filled night when Jesus was born. Your children will hear Luke 2 come to life with rich imagery—dusty roads, crowded Bethlehem streets, gentle animals in the stable, and the breathtaking moment when Jesus was born. We explain what a census is, why it sent Joseph and Mary on their journey, and how Isaiah promised Jesus' birth long before it happened. His humble arrival shows kids that God's kingdom is often at odds with what the world values and that through such a simple beginning came the greatest gift we could never earn: salvation. This episode ends with a short, meaningful application for kids and a simple prayer. Then stay for our special thank-you segment—you might hear a familiar name! Other Christmas episodes your family will enjoy are: #357 The Wisemen  and #311: LOVE: advent week 4 (about the shepherds) -----------------

When the wise men worshiped Jesus, their obedience unlocked provision for God's plan. In this message, Pastor Corey Erman teaches how true worship positions believers to become channels of divine provision and purpose. “And when they had come into the house… they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” - Matthew 2:11To support this ministry and help us reach the nations with revival visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠RiverWPB.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or text GIVE and any amount to (855) 968-3708.

Matthew 2:1-12 Pastor Eric Mounts

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  December 7, 2025: May God's words be spoken, may God's words be heard.  Amen. You'all know I love Hallmark Christmas movies.  However, there is nothing quite like the ultimate story we hear at this time of year – A Christmas Carol, by Charles Dickens.  And as much as I love Hallmark, they just do not compare in their remakes of that classic, to the ones that star Alister Sims or Sir Patrick Stewart.  Now, we are in Advent, not Christmas, so why do I bring this classic tale of Christmas up?  For the same reason I did many years ago when I was preaching on the texts for this Sunday – especially the one from Isaiah, because Dickens knew how to create a setting.  And, the truth is, while the movie adaptations are good, nothing is better than the actual book in telling that important part of the story.  I mean, isn't that nearly always the case – Lord of the Rings trilogy, Dune, the Chronicles of Narnia – I know, I am showing my fantasy/scifi side. Even the Harry Potter movies, while really good, were not as good as the books.  The same is very true for A Christmas Carol. The opening paragraph of this Dicken's seasonal classic makes one thing absolutely clear.  It reads, “Marley was dead: to begin with. There is no doubt whatever about that. The register of his burial was signed by the clergyman, the clerk, the undertaker, and the chief mourner. Scrooge signed it: and Scrooge's name was good upon 'Change, for anything he chose to put his hand to. Old Marley was as dead as a door-nail.  Mind! I don't mean to say that I know, of my own knowledge, what there is particularly dead about a door-nail. I might have been inclined, myself, to regard a coffin-nail as the deadest piece of ironmongery in the trade. But the wisdom of our ancestors is in the simile; and my unhallowed hands shall not disturb it, or the Country's done for. You will therefore permit me to repeat, emphatically, that Marley was as dead as a door-nail.” So, I guess Marley, old Scrooge's business partner, was very much dead?  Or, as we get from the coronor in The Wizard of Oz – Marley is “…not only merely dead, [he's] really most sincerely dead.” Clearly we do not need to ask, in our best Monty Python voice, “Is he dead yet?”  Marley is dead.  Got it.  But why all the fuss – why all the repetition? Well, as we continue in the story we realize that if we weren't quite sure about Marley being dead, than it throws off the basis for the very strange set of Christmas Eve visitations that result in a miracle of new life for Scrooge.  And it is this new life that is an important part of our Advent journey.  The life that grows out of death.  Now you might be thinking, isn't that Easter, not Advent?  Well, it is both, as will see in the passage from Isaiah, and also from St. Paul in his letter to the Romans (who quotes the very scripture in Isaiah we heard today).  The passage begins with this: “A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots.”  That branch, the passage continues, is the birth of a new leader – one who is righteous and faithful, who has compassion for the poor and the meek. Oh, how we yearn even today, for that. Now we often hear these words and think of Jesus, but Jews then and to today know these words as applying to King Hezekiah of Judah.  Still, everyone all over the world yearn for this type of leader – one who has compassion for her people, and knows they are not God, but are there to serve God's people.  The prophet's words remind all of us what is expected of those that lead the people of God.  And it is a proper metaphor for the incarnation too. So, let's get back to that stump, that leftover remains of a very dead tree.  A tree that, as Dickins would likely say, is as dead as a door nail.  Why is this imagery so important to the people then, or us now? Well, remember last week? The prophet was speaking of a vision of a new world where swords would be turned into plowshares?  Well, that hasn't come about yet.  The Assyrians were still a threat to Jerusalem, and had destroyed many a city in Judah and Israel.  In fact, in the chapter before the one we read from today, we hear about those rulers who oppress the people, turning aside the needy from justice, and robbing the poor and vulnerable.  It was a time of darkness for the people, where hope was far gone and everyone seemed like the walking dead.  The stump is a metaphor for the people who felt dead inside.  The shoot is the birth of a new leader who is righteous, faithful, and good.  That would be a miracle to those so worn down by the reality in which they lived. But the passage doesn't stop there.  This new life is beyond anything anyone has ever experienced – beyond even swords being made into plowshares.  It is what we have come to call the peaceable kingdom…where “The wolf shall live with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the kid…” Of course, this image has been depicted in religious art, and is the stuff of poets.  But given the circumstances then and today, many of us might say, “The wolf might lie down with the lamb. But the lamb won't get much sleep!”  We greet these words with a big “Bah Humbug!' Not because we don't want it – oh we so dream it could be true.  No, we are skeptical because we have become so used to the very unpeaceable kingdom – war, violence, human trafficking, hate crimes, cyberbullying, and leaders who attack the people they are meant to serve, not to mention difficult times in our own lives. We can feel devoid of dreams like this because it can all seem too big to imagine – this time of peace and love for all.  It seems like a pipe dream. We can be so very weary from what life throws at us that we become like those people long ago – the walking dead.  Our faith withered so much that we keep a watchful eye, a bit like a lamb near a lion, for what might next prey upon us, and not for miracles of new life.  And so this prophetic witness of Isaiah is not only meant for those long ago, but for us too.  Maybe that is why St. Paul quotes the prophet in his letter to the Romans we heard a part of today.  He writes “Whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, so that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope….and again Isaiah says, “The root of Jesse shall come, the one who rises to rule the Gentiles; in him the Gentiles shall hope.”” St. Paul is reminding the people in Rome, and now us, of the promise of Isaiah – that new life grows out of what seems to be very much dead, bringing hope to all.  And folks, as I said last week, hope is a most powerful force amidst the darkness of the world.  It is the stuff of transformation, and the heart of Advent.  Hope is the spark in the soul that can defeat the darkness, can overcome the strongest enemies, can make dreams – God's or our own – possible.  And hope is the root of joy. Now, to be clear, joy is not happiness.  Joy is not connected to external events.  Joy is the inner peace we carry knowing that no matter what life throws at us, God loves us – loves us enough to break into the darkness of our lives with the birth of Christ Jesus. But here's the thing.  This new vision of the world – this peaceable kingdom and life out of death – this hope and joy – well, we have a role to play in bringing it all about. St. Paul adds this instruction we heard today “Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you.”  This welcome isn't a polite greeting like we do at the peace, or we might when being introduced at a party.  That is far too tame.  The Greek used here is more on the lines of “fully embrace.”  And it isn't meant just for people we know well, or even like.  It is to fully embrace like Christ!  Or to put it in Christ's own words “love one another as I loved you.”  We are to be the counter-cultural witness to the goodness of God in how we treat one another, how we treat those who are different than ourselves, how we treat all of creation.  When we love as Christ loved us, we become the very sprouts of new life for a world that feels dead as a stump.  That is how we, by his incarnation in our heart, give birth to God's vision of love and peace. It happens one welcome – one full embrace – one moment of unconditional love at a time.  It is the hope of nations, and the promise of the child we await.  Think about the story of old Scrooge for a moment.  His transformation didn't come about because he got frightened out of his wits by a bunch of ghosts.  It started with a warning from Marley, to be sure, but what exactly was Marley telling him?  First, he told Scrooge that the chain he was wearing he forged in life, and that Scrooge's was just as long and growing ever still.  And when Scrooge said, “But you were always a good man of business, Jacob,” Marley shouted back – “Business!” “Mankind was my business. The common welfare was my business; charity, mercy, forbearance, and benevolence, were all my business. The dealings of my trade were but a drop of water in the comprehensive ocean of my business!…At this time of the rolling year, I suffer most. Why did I walk through crowds of fellow-beings with my eyes turned down, and never raise them to that blessed Star which led the Wise Men to a poor abode? Were there no poor homes to which its light would have conducted me?” Then the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future arrive one by one. What did they show Scrooge?  Images of hell to scare him?  No.  They showed him love – love he once had for another person, love of the Cratchit family even amidst all their lot, love his nephew showed to him despite Scrooge's nasty clapbacks at him.  And the reader or viewer sees how the absence of love from others can deaden many a child of God. That is what the Spirits showed to Scrooge – love.  Love not based on being treated well, love not based on the circumstances of life.  Just love – that full embrace St. Paul implores us to give – that commandment of Jesus to us all.  It is the very thing that will bring forth the shoot of hope and joy from even the deadest of souls, including our own. So next time you are watching your favorite version of A Christmas Carol, remember this passage from Isaiah and the epistle of St. Paul to the Romans. Remember and see that even a soul as dead as Dickin's Mr. Scrooge may be given new life through the power of love. Remember too that this miracle of redemptive grace is for everyone – for you and for me.  It is the hope that will heal the world and bring about the beloved kingdom for us all, so long as we do our part to bring it about. And so I leave you with this, the two benedictions St. Paul includes in this part of his epistle.  Maybe they be something you can say each morning as you start the day – a reminder of Advent and what is possible by God's grace, when we share with others our hope and joy in love.  “May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Amen. For the audio, click below, or subscribe to our iTunes Sermon Podcast by clicking here (also available on Audible): Sermon Podcast https://christchurchepiscopal.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Rec-001-Sermon-December_7_2025.m4a   The Rev. Diana L. Wilcox Christ Church in Bloomfield & Glen Ridge December 7, 2025 Advent 4 – Year A 1st Reading – Isaiah 11:1-10 Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19 2nd Reading – Romans 15:4-13 Gospel – Matthew 3:1-12 The post “The Power Of Love” appeared first on Christ Episcopal Church.

Celebrate Epiphany with your family through hands-on activities that bring the story of the Wise Men to life. In this episode, we'll explore creative crafts, thought-provoking questions, and global traditions to help your children understand the meaning of this special day.Learn how to incorporate the gifts of the Wise Men and act out the Nativity story together. Make Epiphany unforgettable with these fun and meaningful activities:✅ Questions to ponder during the 12 days of Christmas until Epiphany✅ 8 activities for families to celebrate Epiphany✅ Feast of Epiphany ideas✅ Create crafts like crown and star ornaments, stained glass windows, and glittery gifts✅ Explore the symbolism of frankincense, myrrh, and gold with sensory activities✅ Act out the Nativity story and discuss its significance with thought-provoking questions✅ Discover global Epiphany traditions and bring them into your own celebrationUse coupon code to save 40% on Christmas Celebrations & Star of Bethlehem. Expires Friday, Dec 19.Mentioned Links:Christmas Celebrations Ebook - SAVE 40% with code: DEC19Star of Bethlehem Family Bible Study Ebook - SAVE 40% with code: DEC19Posts to Help with Epiphany:Epiphany Traditions from our FamilyItalian Feast of EpiphanyShow Notes:What Is Epiphany and Why It MattersHey everyone, Kerry back here with Homeschool Coffee Break where we help you stop that overwhelm so you can actually have a coffee break. I actually have coffee with me today!Today what we are going to be talking about is how you can celebrate Epiphany and some of y'all are going, I don't even know what you're talking about. What in the world is Epiphany? We're gonna talk about Epiphany, but what I want to do is give you some hands-on activities. I think I have eight or nine activities that you can use.Because really, when this is published, we are smack dab in the middle of Christmas and New Year's. But there is something much more important than New Year's and that is the Feast of Epiphany on January 6th. That is almost a week away from when this is going to be published.Let's talk about what Epiphany is, how it can affect your family, how you can raise your kids to understand it. Because let me tell you, I had no idea till my kids were almost in high school what Epiphany was, what that feast was, what that holiday was.Understanding the 12 Days of ChristmasEpiphany is 12 days after Christmas. Ah, 12 Days of Christmas! It is not 12 days before Christmas—they are after Christmas. The Catholic church has a great handle on this and I am a Protestant and raise my kids in a Protestant church. And we don't, and I would like to help make a change with that because we need to give our kids the best Christian heritage.They need to know their church history. They need to know their Christian heritage. And if we are only letting certain denominations do that, then we are doing a disservice to our children.One of the things I have been thinking about just this past week, because I went to visit my middle daughter and her two grandkids, was what could I send to both the grandkid families to celebrate Epiphany. In the past, I've actually made 12 paper bags, like little brown paper bags, nothing big, to celebrate the 12 Days of Christmas.Because if you don't know this, the 12 Days of Christmas have symbolism. You see, when it was written, people could not talk in public about Christ. So they wrote this song and they could sing the song because of the symbolism. Partridge in a pear tree—that's Jesus in the manger. The three French hens—that is God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. All 12 of them have significance. If you don't know what that is, then go and look. We've got a whole ebook about that and it'll be in the show notes.Celebrating the Wise Men's JourneyBut that is something I think is really important. What we want to focus on today is that 12th day, the day of Epiphany, the day we celebrate that the Wise Men followed the star and found Jesus. That was not in the manger. It was probably maybe a year or two later. And so we are going to celebrate that on January 6th.What are some things that you could do to celebrate that?Activity #1: Read and Study Matthew 2First of all, you could read Matthew 2:1-12. There are nine clues about what is that star. If you need help, you can get our Star of Bethlehem study guide—it is in the show notes as well.You could have your children copy all 12 verses. If they're young, one verse a day for 12 days. You could have them retell the story in their own words, narrate it back, or rewrite it in their own words. All of that based in Matthew 2:1-12.Activity #2: Crown and Star CraftsAnother thing is you could do some crafts. You can make a crown craft. Let me tell you, my grandkids love all of that! You could cut out a crown and let them decorate it with jewels and stickers and whatever, put it on their head. And they can be, if you have three of them, they can be the three wise men. Even one of them—we don't know that there were just three, there were just three gifts, so we assume there were three wise men.Another thing you could do is make a star ornament. And I will put a link in the show notes to some different star ornament things. It could be a black construction paper star and then put tissue paper inside of it with, what do you call that stuff, just a clear paper, and it will turn into a star stained glass. You can make a star out of foam and decorate it with glitter and jewels, whatever you want to do. There are lots of ways that you can make a star craft.Activity #3: Explore the Wise Men's GiftsNow let's move on. We've got: read the Bible first of all, number two: crafts. How about the Wise Men gifts? One of those gifts is frankincense. This is a bottle of frankincense oil. You could have your kids open it up, let them smell this. This is a healing oil, believe it. You may not believe in all the essential oils—this is a healing oil.Myrrh—I didn't grab my myrrh, I have a myrrh oil—but let them smell that. Talk about the difference in the smells. What is it used for? Do some research on how do you use frankincense, how do you use myrrh.Then the last gift is gold. Maybe do some research on the value of gold. How much does gold cost per ounce? What is the value of maybe a gold nugget? And start to bring it to real life today.Activity #4: Act Out the StorySo we've got: read the Bible, crafts, we've got the three wise men gifts. You could have them act out the story. Maybe the adults read Matthew 2 and the kids act it out. Or maybe they get their own figurines. All my kids have all the Fisher Price people and we've got stuffed ones out there, we got plastic ones, we got all sorts of figurines for our nativity sets. Let them use that and let them retell the story, act it out.Activity #5: Thought-Provoking QuestionsAnother thing might be just some thought-provoking questions. Here are three thought-provoking questions you could use:What do you think it was like to travel so far to see Jesus? You couldn't get in a plane, you couldn't get in a car or a train. You had to go by camel. What was that like? And let them talk about that.Why do you think the wise men brought gifts?How can we worship Jesus today?Those are just three quick questions. I'm sure there are plenty more, but those are some ones that you could use as you talk about this day of Epiphany.Activity #6: Explore Traditions Around the WorldMaybe look at what the traditions are around the world. In France, they have a king's cake and there's a ring inside that cake. Have a king's cake bake-off! Maybe let your kids all make cupcake king's cupcakes and have a bake-off and have a little judge who chooses first, second, third place.In Spain, they have parades. Do some research and see what are the other traditions for Epiphany around the world.Activity #7: Make Crown Cookies or SnacksAnother one of my favorite things, because it is food as we're talking about food, is to make some sugar cookies and cut them in the shape of a crown. I just bought this on Amazon years ago when I was having to do a lot of vacation Bible schools in the summertime and so I bought this.Another thing you could do besides, you could do it in sugar cookies and then use sprinkles to decorate it. I actually this past fall, we cut cheese in the shape of a crown and used grapes to decorate it. We cut the grapes up, or blueberries, I don't know what it was, some kind of fruit. That was the healthy version of a crown snack.Activity #8: Chalk the Door House BlessingAnother thing I just learned today is to have a house blessing. It is called Chalk the Door. Let's say there is a door here. You would write: 20+C+M+B+25. The 20 and the 25 are for 2025, that's the year we're in right now.What is CMB? Christus mansionem benedicat. That means "May Christ bless this dwelling." You could actually take chalk and put that above your front door. That is something they've been doing for years. And that would be something—maybe even look at what these words mean in Latin: Christus, mansionem, benedicat. And look those up and find out how it all relates to "May Christ bless this dwelling."Activity #9: The Feast of Epiphany with OrangesAnd then the last one, one of my favorites—I don't really have anything here to help you—but the Feast of Epiphany: use those little oranges, what are those little, uh, clementines, whatever, the little ones. My kids get them in their stocking all the time. Oranges represent light. Who is the light of the world? Jesus!And I have a whole blog post—I'm not going to go into it, you can go look at it—how you can create a Feast of Epiphany with a main dish, with an appetizer, with a fun dessert, yummy yummy, and then with the oranges as well. Because the oranges, open them up, they represent light.Start Simple and Build Your TraditionsSo those are just a few ways that you can celebrate Epiphany this year. None of them are extravagant. They are very simple, hands-on activities. You have almost a week—pick and choose one or two that you might want to do this year. And then next year you can do something different.Now for some of you, you're like, "I need a little more help." We have some resources! One is our Christmas Celebrations ebook. It tells what all 12 days are symbolized for and gives you some ideas about the Feast of Epiphany. We have our Star of Bethlehem Bible study for families, and so you can go through that. That Bible study is really more for Epiphany than it is for Christmas because it was the star the Wise Men followed to find Jesus.Also have a couple blog posts on Three Epiphany Traditions That We Did and our Italian Feast of Epiphany. So you can just look in the show notes to get all of those.If you have other ideas, leave a comment wherever you are! And if they don't let you leave comments, please leave a five-star review for us—that would mean the world to me. Hey, I'm Kerry Beck with Homeschool Coffee Break. We'll talk to you next time!

Christmas looks like it belongs to men — Santa, Jesus, the Wise Men, even Frosty — but the holiday itself has always been built, carried, and saved by women.In this episode of Bitchstory, we reclaim Christmas for the girls, the gays, and the theys by telling the stories history tends to forget:the women whose words, labor, courage, and organizing shaped the holiday as we know it. In this episode we'll discuss 4 (of many!) women who have made Christmas into the nostalgic, magical time of year we know it as today. From Victorian England to WWII France to Jim Crow Alabama to the North Pole, this episode reveals a truth hiding in plain sight:Christmas has always run on women's work.So pour the eggnog, light the candles, put up your feet (you've earned it!!) and join us for a historically accurate, slightly unhinged, feminist retelling of the season.

As Christmas draws near, Matt and Anna help kids discover how the wise men followed a special star to worship Jesus, the promised Savior. This episode shows how Jesus is worthy of worship, how God keeps His promises, and why Christmas is about celebrating that Jesus came to save sinners. What You'll Learn ✨ Jesus Is the Promised Savior — God kept His promise to send Jesus to save His people from sin. ✨ Wise Men Worship Jesus — The wise men traveled a long way to honor Jesus as King. ✨ Jesus Is Worthy of Worship — Gold, frankincense, and myrrh showed Jesus was worthy of honor and praise. ✨ Waiting Can Be Full of Hope — Just like the wise men waited and followed the star, God's people wait trusting His promises. ✨ Christmas Is Bigger Than the Manger — Jesus didn't stay a baby; He grew up to save sinners forever.

When was Christ born? I held a livestream to tackle some of the most enduring mysteries surrounding the Christmas story, diving deep into scholarly debates concerning the timing of Christ's birth, the nature of the Star of Bethlehem, and the identity and traditions surrounding the Wise Men. The discussion also included a giveaway of a free copy of Sand Tanner’s book, Lighthouse, authored by Ronald Huggins. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3d0hOvJoXQc Don't miss our other conversations about Christmas: https://gospeltangents.com/lds_theology/christmas/ Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved The Great Dating Debate: When Was Christ Born? The discussion began by addressing the fact that the calendar we use today, created by the 6th-century monk Dionysius Exiguus. He mistakenly placed Christ's birth several years too late. There is no Year Zero. Modern scholars generally agree that Herod the Great died in 4 BC, a crucial historical marker, meaning Jesus could not have been born as late as 1 BC because Herod would have been dead for three or four years by then. Dr. Jeffrey Chadwick proposes that December of 5 BC is the correct birth month. However, Dr. Thomas Wayment argues that biblical writers like Matthew and Luke were composing gospels, not history, and were unconcerned with precise details, suggesting that historical data only allows us to know the date within a year or two, and certainly not within a specific month. Adding to the complexity is the mention of a census in Luke 2, which is historically problematic, as the census conducted by Quirinius (Cyrenius) is typically placed around 6 AD, about 10 years after Herod's death, creating a significant timeline contradiction. Explaining the Star of Bethlehem The question of what caused the Star of Bethlehem led to an examination of several astronomical and scientific theories, particularly in the context of both the Bible (Matthew 2) and the Book of Mormon (3rd Nephi 1). Information comes from several sources, including the 2004 documentary called Mystery of the Three Kings by Questar Entertainment. Planetary Alignment: Astronomer Michael Molnar proposed that the star was actually an occultation where the moon passed in front of Jupiter, a theory based on Babylon’s astrological beliefs concerning the birth dates of divine kings. Solar Eclipse: Another possibility, suggested by Jerry Grover, is a solar eclipse which occurred in 6 BC, a date near the proposed birth time. In Mesopotamia, eclipses were frequently associated with the rising of a new king or the death of an old king, which would explain why Herod was troubled. The eclipse was rare, rising in Mesoamerica and setting as a partial eclipse in Persia, where the Wise Men were thought to originate. Coronal Mass Ejection (CME): Grover also offered the idea of a CME (a massive ejection of plasma from the sun hitting Earth’s magnetosphere). This event could cause the northern lights (auroras) to become supercharged and move far south, appearing as “weird domes and other shapes in Mesoamerica”. This theory is particularly interesting because it could scientifically explain the Book of Mormon account that the night became “as light as day all night long” in the American Hemisphere, while the phenomenon might not have been noticed in the Middle East. Furthermore, the sign may have been accompanied by a crackling or hissing sound, as ions drop and release their charge in the atmosphere. Supernovas and comets are generally dismissed as options because they are either too short-lived or were historically seen as signs of impending doom. The Wise Men: Identity, Gifts, and Legacy The Wise Men (Magi or Magoi) were likely astrologers, healers, and dream readers from the east, specifically the Parthian/Persian Empire (modern Iran/Iraq area.) Their arrival in Jerusalem would have been concerning to Herod, especially since they were Persians entering Roman-controlled territory. The word Magoi is the same word used for magician or sorcerer. They may have been followers of the Zoroastrian religion, which is monotheistic and shares beliefs with Judaism, such as a belief in resurrection and a coming savior. Zoroastrian astronomers may have recognized the confluence of Jupiter and Saturn in 7 BC as a sign of a new king in Israel. The three traditional gifts carried profound meaning: Gold represented kingship. Frankincense represented divinity or God. Myrrh was extremely valuable (worth seven times the weight of gold) and represented healing; its use in embalming also served as a foreshadowing of Jesus's eventual death. The Magi are celebrated in many traditions, particularly in Spanish-speaking countries, where January 6th is known as Three Kings Day24,25. On this day, which occurs 12 days after Christmas, presents are exchanged, left by the Three Kings rather than Santa Claus. Legends regarding the Magi’s relics and tombs are found across the globe, including claims in Sava, Iran (recorded by Marco Polo); Axum, Ethiopia; Milan, Italy, and the most famous location in the West, the Cologne Cathedral in Germany. Don't miss our other conversations about Christmas: https://gospeltangents.com/lds_theology/christmas/ Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved

Send us a textChristmas is a very special time when we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  It is also a season in which we spend time with our friends and family.  So, we're inviting you to join our families in a fun and festive Christmas podcast.Brian, Terry, Dan, and John reflect on the joys and blessings of Christmas.  They take a look back at 2025 and recount the ways the Lord used and blessed the Finish Strong podcast and Fearless Faith Ministries overall.  They'll also reveal some of their plans for 2026.We wanted to add a touch of elegance and beauty to this edition; therefore, our three amigos will be joined by their wives, Deb, Karen, and Pam.  Join the fun of our Finish Strong Christmas Celebration and have yourself a Merry and Blessed Christmas this year!Support the showFearless Faith Websiteffaith.orgTo leave a review - Open Finish Strong on the Apple Podcast app and scroll down until you see "Ratings & Reviews". There will be a link to click so that you can "Write A Review"FacebookYouTubeInstagram

Sunday Morning, December 14, 2025, Series: The Nativity Story, Matthew 2:1-12, Pastor Carlos Navarrete

The second gift brought by the wise men was Frankincense. Why? For what purpose? And how can I apply this in my life today?

An expository sermon from Matthew 2:1-11 on the Wise Men who came to worship the baby Jesus.

Pastor Caleb Kinney Sunday Evening 12/14/25

There are more Christmas myths than you may think, and in today's episode, Dr. Barber debunks many of them while simultaneously revealing the true meaning of Christmas. Get Your Copy of “The True Meaning of Christmas”: https://ignatius.com/the-true-meaning-of-christmas-tmcp/ Was Christmas originally a pagan holiday? Were there three Wisemen, and were they kings or sorcerers? Did Mary know she was going to give birth to the Son of God? Do we know if December 25th is Jesus' true birthday? Dr. Michael Barber joins Ben Eriksen as he answers these questions and many more based on his extensive research presented in his book “The True Meaning of Christmas.” Dr. Barber not only explains the history behind many Christmas traditions, but he also highlights the spiritual and moral underpinnings of these beloved celebrations. Take some time to learn more about Christmas this year so you can celebrate with a more grateful and grace-filled heart. Dr. Michael Barber's Social Media: · https://www.instagram.com/michaelpatrickbarber/ · https://x.com/michaelpbarber · https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelpbarber   SUBSCRIBE to our channel and never miss an episode of the Ignatius Press Podcast. You can also listen to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. Follow us on social media: Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/IgnatiusPress Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ignatiuspress Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ignatius_press/   Music from Pexels, Gregor Quendel. https://www.classicals.de/legal

Matt 2: Wisemen

The Wise Men show us the way. This Advent message explores the star, the King it reveals, and how surrender fuels mission, mercy, and worship today in our city together.

Rethinking Scripture Podcast - Episode 98:  Introducing the "Rethinking Advent" User GuideDecember 14, 2025 - Host: Dr. Gregory HallRethinking Advent was never meant to be just a podcast series (episodes 28-33)—it was designed to be walked through. In this short special episode, I introduce the new Rethinking Advent User Guide, created to help listeners slow down, reflect, and engage the Advent story through weekly rhythms, discussion questions, and devotional prompts. Whether you're returning to the series or encountering it for the first time, this guide offers a deeper, more formative way to experience Advent. Everything is available for free at: RethinkingScripture.com/rethinking-advent/Referenced Resources:Charlie Brown's Question - "Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?"  posed by Charlie Brown in A Charlie Brown Christmas. A tv movie from 1965.Show Music:Background music - jazzy bells (jingle bells) by Dee Yan-Key - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Dee_Yan-Key/my_christmas_music/02--Dee_Yan-Key-jazzy_bellsPodcast Website:RethinkingScripture.com/rethinking-advent/Sister site: RethinkingRest.comSocial Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RethinkingScripture Twitter: @RethinkingStuffInstagram: Rethinking_ScriptureYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6YCLg2UldJiA0dsg0KkvLAPowered and distributed by Simplecast.

"Jesus didn't just come to save us from hell. He came to heal us from what hell did to us." — Pastor Steve Dow The Prophetic Purpose of Myrrh While gold and frankincense are easy to celebrate as gifts for a King and a Priest, the third gift—myrrh—is often misunderstood. In this message, Pastor Steve Dow explores the "fragrance of death" brought by the Wise Men and reveals why it is actually a beautiful promise of restoration. Discover how Jesus, our suffering Savior, enters into our most bitter experiences to transform our trauma into a testimony. +++++++ You can find our service times on our website: https://www.anctally.com/ You can find sermon highlights on Twitter here: https://x.com/allnationstally

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Welcome to Christ Community Church of Wilmington NC. We are committed to teaching the Bible, transforming lives, and touching our world.

Matthew 2:1-12 - Three Responses to Christmas |  Series: No Place Like Home for Christmas |  Justin Hornsby, Worship Pastor |  Preached 12-14-25 10:45am   Tag: Christmas, Advent, Nativity, Manger, Baby, Jesus, Holiday, Music, Family, Kids, Parents, Hope, Peace, Joy, Christ, Matthew, Wisemen, Oz, Hope, Treasures, Response, Hope, Worship, True

This message explores the gift of frankincense brought by the Wise Men and how it reveals Jesus as our Great High Priest. Just as certain scents mark special moments, frankincense in Scripture symbolized holiness, prayer, and access to God. It declared that Jesus came not only to rule as King, but to reconcile humanity to God through His priestly role. From the very beginning, His identity and mission were recognized as One who would bring heaven and earth together.Drawing from Hebrews, the sermon highlights Jesus as the High Priest we have always needed—sinless, compassionate, and fully able to sympathize with our weaknesses. Unlike earthly priests, His work was finished once for all, yet His intercession continues even now. Jesus still speaks on our behalf, extends mercy in our need, and opens confident access to the throne of grace. The gift of frankincense ultimately calls us to worship fully, pray boldly, and live with assurance, knowing our High Priest is alive and actively working for us.

Sunday, December 14, 2025

In our Advent series, Wise Men Still Seek Him, Mr. Aaron Green talks about the villian of the Christmas story, including 1) Introduction – The Backstory of a Villain, 2) Matthew 2:1-6 – Hardness of Heart, 3) Matthew 2:7-8 – Understanding Worship, and 4) Matthew 2:9-19 – The Rest of the Story (Conclusion). This episode of the Evangel Houghton podcast is a Sunday message from Evangel Community Church, Houghton, Michigan, December 14, 2025.

Pastor Harald starts the Christmas series on the genealogy of Jesus.

December 14, 2025 - Eric Barton - Matthew 2:1-12 “The Wise Men” by Bethel Downtown

Pastor Zach Pinkerton kicks off our Christmas series Wise Men Still Seek Him. This week, we talk about the setup to Christmas story - the story of how God stepped into our mess on a rescue mission for all of us.

Matthew 2:1-12 - Three Responses to Christmas |  Series: No Place Like Home for Christmas |  Justin Hornsby, Worship Pastor |  Preached 12-14-25 10:45am   Tag: Christmas, Advent, Nativity, Manger, Baby, Jesus, Holiday, Music, Family, Kids, Parents, Hope, Peace, Joy, Christ, Matthew, Wisemen, Oz, Hope, Treasures, Response, Hope, Worship, True

This week we hear about king Herod and the wise men. What role did they play in Jesus' story? Listen in as Pastor Jeremy opens up the book of Matthew to find out.

This week Pastor Tim Wisehart kicks off our series Wise Men Still Seek Him. Join us as we follow the birth of Jesus and Gods plan for our lives in Matthew 1.

Sunday Morning Service by Pastor James Robertson

Series: Extraordinary Peace for Ordinary People Title: Steadfast Speaker: Pastor Daron Earlewine Date: December 14, 2025 In a world filled with noise, hurry, and anxiety, the story of Jesus' birth reminds us that peace isn't the absence of problems—it's the presence of Jesus. Through the eyes of Mary, Joseph, Zechariah & Elizabeth, the Wise Men, and the Shepherds, we'll see how the Prince of Peace meets us in our fear, waiting, uncertainty, and striving. Because peace has a name, and His name is Jesus. STAY CONNECTED Website: https://mrne.info/church Mercy Kids: https://mrne.info/kids Mercy Students: https://mrne.info/students Mercy Road Northeast Facebook: https://mrne.info/facebook Mercy Road Northeast Instagram: https://mrne.info/instagram HELPFUL LINKS Connect Card: https://mrne.info/getconnected Prayer: https://mrne.info/prayer Give Online: https://mrne.info/giving Outposts: https://mrne.info/outpost Subscribe to MERCY ROAD CHURCH - NORTHEAST YouTube channel to watch this message again later this week! https://www.youtube.com/@mercyroadnortheast

What do you give in recognition of the best gift that was ever given and what do you give to someone who ultimately already has everything?

Listen to the archived services of Community Baptist Temple in Akron, OH

Matthew 2:1-12Rev. Matt Rice

SUBSCRIBE and get the latest messages: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVIzzCy3Z9Zsk0GwAH-yJ7g?sub_confirmation=1Watch this:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5De6-FwIKq4&t=1sTo support this ministry and help us continue to reach people click here: http://kingschurchkc.com/giveWe exist to help ALL people know God, find family, discover purpose, and make a difference.——Stay ConnectedWebsite: www.kingschurchkc.comKings Church Facebook: Facebook.com/kingschurchkcKings Church Instagram: Instagram.com/kingschurchkc#kingschurch #faith #Christianity #kansascity #onlinechurch #churchonline #hope #churchesinkansascity

It's Celebration Sunday, and we're announcing huge wins, sharing powerful stories of faith, and revealing the results of our Difference Maker Initiative! We're celebrating salvations, baptisms, first-time givers, bold commitments, and the incredible generosity that is shaping the future of our church. It's going to be a day full of joy, vision, and unforgettable moments. And we're tying it all into Part 2 of our Christmas series, Here I Am to Worship, as we look at the real story of the Wise Men — not kings, but king-makers who traveled a thousand miles to worship Jesus and advance His mission. obedience, and extravagant generosity to move God's mission forward.Just like them, Real Life has gone the distance. Just like them, Difference Makers have stepped out with faith,obedience, and extravagant generosity to move God's mission forward.Enjoy Celebration Sunday — a moment where we worship like the Wise Men, give like Difference Makers, and step into a brand-new season God is opening for Real Life.

Wise men traveled far to worship Jesus with costly gifts—so what gifts are you bringing to Him today? In Pastor Phil's sermon from Matthew 2:1-11, we learn how the Magi's offering of gold reveals Jesus' deity and royalty and how real worship always involves sacrifice. Discover how worship is a lifestyle as we unpack Romans 12:1 and explore four practical ways to honor God every day. You'll learn how to worship God with your body by honoring Him with purity and obedience, with your abilities by doing everything for His glory, with your money by putting treasure where your heart is, and with your mouth by declaring His praise. If you're ready to move beyond Sunday songs into a life of surrendered worship, this message will challenge and encourage you to bring Jesus your very best—just like the wise men did. Connect with us on Social Media ↴Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abundantlifels/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantlifelsConnect with Pastor Phil ↴Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhilHopperKCInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/philhopper_kcBooks & Resources: https://abundant-life.com/resources/books Listen to The Well Podcast ⤵Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5wadnywAMEK7c0E1qatMoY?si=SjH6Ko7VR3OoHrRy1yYLlQ&nd=1&dlsi=395ae55d95ac4b11Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-well/id1233267223YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLR50sV854C2hogfBmv7YogvCjiNYLz9a2Find Your Next Step: https://alife.livingproof.co/ Watch more sermons: https://abundant-life.com/sermons/Do you want to see your life changed by Jesus? Visit our website: https://abundant-life.com/ Listen to The Well Podcast ⤵Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5wadnywAMEK7c0E1qatMoY?si=SjH6Ko7VR3OoHrRy1yYLlQ&nd=1&dlsi=395ae55d95ac4b11Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-well/id1233267223YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLR50sV854C2hogfBmv7YogvCjiNYLz9a2Find Your Next Step: http://alife.livingproof.co/ Watch more sermons: https://abundant-life.com/sermons/Do you want to see your life changed by Jesus? Visit our website: https://abundant-life.com/ Connect with us on Social Media ↴Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abundantlifels/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantlifels Connect with Pastor Phil ↴Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhilHopperKCInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/philhopper_kc/Web: https://abundant-life.com/resources/books/Learn more about the A-Life Discipleship Journey: https://alife.livingproof.co/ More information on our sermons: https://abundant-life.com/sermons/Do you want to see your life changed by Jesus? Visit our website: https://abundant-life.com/

He's the villain of the Nativity. An alleged killer of innocents, remembered as one of history's great monsters. But the truth about Herod the Great is far more dramatic, far more complex, and far more shocking.On today's special episode of The Ancients, Tristan Hughes asks: who was the real Herod behind the legend and the infamy? Joined by Professor Benedict Eckhardt, Dr Kimberly Tchaikovsky and Professor Helen Bond, he charts the gripping rise of one of antiquity's most formidable and misunderstood rulers. From perilous beginnings to becoming Rome's chosen King of Judea, Herod's story blends Greek-style tragedy with ruthless Roman politics and features encounters with towering figures like Julius Caesar, Cleopatra and Mark Antony. Join us to step into the turbulent world of Roman Judea and discover how Herod defied the odds to seize his throne.MOREThe Wise Men:Listen on AppleListen on SpotifyThe Great Jewish Revolt:Listen on AppleListen on Spotify Presented by Tristan Hughes. Audio editor is Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music courtesy of Epidemic SoundsThe Ancients is a History Hit podcast.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here:https://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We can't believe 2025 is coming to a close already! We end this year full of gratitude for you and expectation for the year ahead. We're taking a little break for the holidays, but before we do, Rachel is going to leave you with a few short thoughts on a Christmas story we've all heard, but perhaps never thought of like this. We look at the journey of the Wise Men as a reminder that the end of the year is not a race, but an invitation to slow down and pay attention. Instead of rushing into resolutions, we explore how intentionality, presence, and trust can guide us into the new year with clarity and peace. Merry Christmas! Learn more about There is More: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thereismorecollective.com/Check Out Our Resources, including the Father's House Study, Go to Girls, and the Spiritual Warfare Workshop: https://thereismorecollective.com/resourcesGet 10% discount on Father's House Study with code: FH10Follow There is More Podcast on Instagram: @thereismorepodcastPartner With Us: ⁠⁠https://neveralonewidows.kindful.com/?campaign=1284937⁠

Lee Strobel investigates the truth about Jesus' birth and the Christmas story as he shares his findings from his book, "The Case for Christmas." He joins Kirk Cameron to discuss the truth behind the powerful narrative and reveals what we actually know about the Wise Men, the Star, and Mary and Joseph's trip to Bethlehem. Don't miss this fascinating interview on Takeaways with Kirk Cameron on TBN! Missed the last episode? Listen in as ⁠⁠Tim Timberlake examines how God reveals His process for bringing about His purpose. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠WATCH Takeaways with Kirk Cameron episodes for free on TBN+⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! Each episode of Takeaways with Kirk Cameron features knowledgeable guests having a respectful and thoughtful conversation surrounding topics that are impacting our society every day. Kirk's hope is that you will walk away from this show with practical steps on how to better your family, your community, and your nation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices