
In this special Christmas episode of The Ryan Files, bestselling author and biblical researcher Dr. Jim Rankin joins Ryan Pelton to reexamine the story of the Wise Men through history, Scripture, archaeology, and ancient astronomy.
After more than fifteen years of research, Rankin presents evidence suggesting the Wise Men were not merely symbolic figures, but identifiable kings whose journey aligns with documented astronomical events between 3–2 BC. Drawing from biblical prophecy, Ethiopian records, ancient pottery discoveries, and star-tracking software, the conversation explores why December 25 may mark the arrival of the Wise Men, rather than the birth of Jesus.
This episode blends faith, history, and evidence to shed new light on one of the most familiar — and least examined — narratives of the Christmas story, offering context without diminishing belief.
Topics explored include:
• Who the Wise Men may have been historically
• The identity of the Frankincense King
• Biblical clues in Isaiah, Psalms, and Matthew
• Ethiopian records and ancient pottery discoveries
• Astronomical events tied to the Star of Bethlehem
• Why Jesus’ birth likely occurred earlier in the year
• The difference between tradition and historical evidence
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