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The Mystery of the Wise Men Revealed

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Faith Facts

  • The Bible does not state there were three Wise Men, nor that they were kings.
  • The “star” they followed remains a mystery, and its exact nature is still debated.
  • The Wise Men likely traveled from the east but their exact origin is unknown.

The story of the Wise Men is beloved at Christmas, yet much of it remains shrouded in mystery. Scripture tells us little about their number, identities, and the star that guided them.

The Gospel of Matthew refers only to “wise men from the east,” without specifying how many came, nor their names or titles.

The gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh have led to the assumption of three visitors, but early Christian art sometimes depicts even more Magi.

Though tradition calls the travelers “kings,” the Bible describes them as Magi, men of learning who may have served in royal courts, yet were not themselves royalty.

As for the star, its true nature is unknown, with some suggesting a rare astronomical event, but Scripture leaves the details to God’s mystery.

The Wise Men likely came from lands east of Israel—perhaps Persia or nearer regions—but the exact location is not given, allowing many cultures to see themselves in the story.

No Scripture tells us if the Wise Men rode camels, horses, or traveled by foot, and tradition fills these gaps with vivid imagination.

Jesus was likely no longer an infant in the manger when the Wise Men arrived—Scripture indicates they came some time after His birth, possibly up to two years later as calculated from Herod’s actions.

“Matthew meant the focus of the story to be Jesus not his house guests.”

As Christians, we can embrace the mystery while keeping our eyes on Christ, the true subject of the story, and marvel at how the Lord draws all nations to the Savior.

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Faith

Embracing Biblical Peace Amid Turmoil

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  • Scripture teaches that true peace is deeper than simply the absence of conflict.
  • Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, offers lasting peace to those who trust in Him.
  • Every Christian is called to be a peacemaker, no matter where God has placed them.

As another turbulent year draws to a close, many hearts long for peace amidst uncertainty in politics, world events, and daily life. Even with best efforts to push aside worldly anxieties, true rest often seems just out of reach.

Yet the Word of God assures believers that peace is possible because God Himself is a God of peace. Through Jesus’s sacrifice, those who place their trust in Him can find wholeness even when life feels broken.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you” (John 14:27).

Because of Christ’s redeeming work, believers can live in the presence of God and experience peace that transcends circumstances. Paul’s encouragement to the early church, to “be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:16), remains true for Christians today facing trials and pressures.

The peace Christ gives equips His followers to become peacemakers wherever God places them—at home, work, or in the community. This sacred call means seeking reconciliation and extending God’s love, reflecting Christ’s character as Prince of Peace.

Peace isn’t something achieved through human hands alone; it is received as a gift from our Savior, motivating believers to bring light to a troubled world.

Let’s fix our eyes on Christ this season and boldly live out our calling as agents of God’s peace and hope for our families, communities, and nation.

Read the full article at Christian Today

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Faith

AI Videos Raise Trust Concerns for Christians

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  • A recent study shows that Evangelicals, non-denominational Christians, and religious nones are among the top groups voicing concern over AI-generated social media videos.
  • Many believe the rise of AI videos is eroding trust, genuine emotion, and authentic storytelling on major platforms.
  • The majority support AI as a helpful tool, but reject its use as a total replacement for human creativity.

New research finds that Christians and those with no religious affiliation are united in opposing the flood of artificial intelligence-generated videos online. The growing presence of AI in social media challenges transparency, authentic voices, and honest connection—key values for Christian believers and families.

“These findings suggest we’re facing a trust gap, not just a technology gap,” Brad Cooper, founder and CEO of Story Radius, stated.

Most participants reported that AI-generated videos break the immersive storytelling that thoughtful content should provide, making it harder to connect emotionally and discern truth.

The alignment between faith communities and religious nones on this issue highlights a widespread desire to preserve genuine creativity and avoid emotional manipulation, reflecting the biblical value of truth and integrity.

Read the full story at Christian Today

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Christians in China Face Severe Crackdowns

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  • Over 1,000 police and SWAT units targeted at least 12 Christian churches in Yayang Town, Zhejiang province during an intense five-day crackdown.
  • Hundreds of believers were detained, with key church leaders Lin Enzhao and Lin Enci accused of leading a so-called “criminal organization.”
  • Authorities forced churches to adopt party symbols and political messaging under national mandates, leading to ongoing resistance from local Christians.

Christian families in Zhejiang province are experiencing a renewed wave of government crackdowns, challenging their right to gather and worship freely. Local believers report that church gates were dismantled and worshippers barred from attending their own churches as police escalated operations against congregations.

According to advocacy groups, residents witnessed a heavy police presence, confiscation of personal items, and the silencing of online communication.

“Listen to the Party, follow the Party,” state-linked sources declared while dismissing faithful Christians as part of a criminal group.

Those arrested, including prominent leaders Lin Enzhao and Lin Enci, were accused of resisting political interference in their worship.

Despite labels of “gang-related” activity, the Christian community views these individuals as steadfast defenders of religious liberty and biblical truth.

Authorities further imposed regulations requiring churches to display government propaganda, blurring the boundaries of church and state. This ongoing pressure has driven many churches underground, as local congregations stand firm in their faith despite constant surveillance and threats.

Christian devotion in China, rooted in courage and conviction, inspires believers abroad to pray and advocate for all who stand for faith in the face of opposition. Join us in lifting these brothers and sisters in prayer as we continue to defend religious freedom worldwide.

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