Your source for all the latest Bible-related and Bible-adjacent news from the month of December 2024 — from archaeological discoveries and academic research to cultural events and conversations, developments in the global church, and more.
Week of December 29
- December 31 — Back in 2023, researchers at the University of Hamburg discovered a rare, ancient piece of Christian literature during a digitization project. Originally overlooked due to its sloppy writing, it is now believed to be the “oldest preserved Greek copy of the Infancy Gospel of Thomas,” an apocryphal text detailing events in Jesus’s childhood. Though not canonical, the document sheds light on some early Christian beliefs. (Jerusalem Post)
- December 30 — Gimel! Researchers from the University of Haifa discovered 160 coins from the reign of Hasmonean King Alexander Jannaeus during an excavation coinciding with Hanukkah. These rare coins, dating to 80/79 BC, were found at a newly identified way station along the Tirza River Valley. The coins feature an eight-pointed star with an Aramaic inscription and an anchor with a Greek inscription. (Jerusalem Post)
- December 30 — A Texas school district that had removed the Bible from its libraries to comply with a new state law banning “sexually explicit” materials has reversed its decision. The initial announcement sparked outrage, prompting the law’s sponsor, Texas state Rep. Jared Patterson, to clarify that religious texts such as the Bible and Quran are protected under the law. The district now says they are “pleased to have the Bible available.” (New York Post)
- December 30 — A pair of Christmas Day attacks highlight the ongoing persecution of Christians in different regions. In Nigeria, 14 Christians — including a 1-year-old girl — were killed after a Christmas carol service. Meanwhile, in Lahore, Pakistan, three Christians were wounded in a gun attack on Pastor Shahzad Siddique’s home following a Christmas Eve altercation. Both countries have been identified as areas of severe religious persecution. (Christian Today)
- December 29 — Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter passed away at 100 in his home in Georgia. Known for his commitment to “both Jesus and justice,” Carter courted controversy equally for his conservative theology and liberal politics, making him a unique figure in American politics. Though his presidency faced economic and diplomatic challenges, his later humanitarian efforts earned him a Nobel Peace Prize. (Christianity Today)
- December 29 — A 10-year-old boy discovered a 100-plus-year-old cross medallion in Jerusalem’s Ein Kerem neighborhood during a school trip. Although not legally an antiquity, the medallion is significant due to its “expert” micro-mosaic craftsmanship and the Christian historical importance of Ein Kerem, believed to be the birthplace of John the Baptist. It likely belonged to a pilgrim visiting the Holy Land in the late 19th century. (Jerusalem Post)
- December 29 — Movie star Denzel Washington has “taken on a new role.” The actor recently received his minister’s license and was baptized at Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ in Harlem, New York, just before his 70th birthday. The moment was nearly 50 years in the making, as Washington recalled a prophecy from his youth when a woman at his mother’s beauty parlor told him he was going to “preach to millions of people.” (Religion Unplugged)
Week of December 22
- December 26 — A study from Tel Aviv University revealed that ancient copper production in the Timna Valley caused minimal environmental harm, contradicting previous beliefs about King Solomon’s Mines. The research showed that pollution was localized to the smelting sites, with lead levels well below modern safety standards. This challenges earlier claims of widespread pollution from ancient metal industries. (Jerusalem Post)
- December 26 — A ceramic oil lamp from the late Roman period was discovered in Jerusalem — one of the few traces of Jewish presence from that era, after they were expelled by Hadrian in 135 AD. The lamp is intricately adorned with Second Temple symbols such as a menorah, incense shovel, and lulav (palm branch). Israeli Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu said it “connects the lights of the past with the Hanukkah holiday of today.” (Jerusalem Post)
- December 24 — Pope Francis opened the first Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica, inaugurating a Year of Jubilee themed “Pilgrims of Hope.” Occurring at least once every 25 years, the event is expected to draw over 30 million pilgrims to Rome. It will feature events emphasizing spiritual renewal and inclusivity (including plenary indulgences for all) and offers a modernized experience with online registration and multilingual apps. (RNS and The Guardian)
- December 24 — A report by the U.K.’s National Churches Trust highlights the health benefits of church attendance, estimating it saves the National Health Service £8.4 billion annually. Despite declining attendance, churches act as “wellbeing workhorses,” providing essential services like food banks, mental health counseling, and addiction support. As community churches close, NHS costs could rise significantly. (Religion Unplugged)
- December 23 — The James Ossuary, a 2,000-year-old limestone box inscribed with “James, son of Joseph, brother of Jesus,” is now on display in Atlanta. Considered a major find when unveiled in 2002, it soon drew controversy when its owner, Oded Golan, was accused of forging the inscription. He was acquitted, but its authenticity remains in doubt. Chemical tests link it to the Talpiot tomb in East Jerusalem. (Jerusalem Post)
- December 22 — Is your Christmas tree angel in need of a refresh? A recent trend is seeing traditional tree-toppers replaced with more Biblically accurate versions, such as one made of wings covered with eyes. When “things seem kind of scary and weird” in the world, “having a scary and weird angel sort of speaks to people,” said Rev. Kira Austin-Young, who began making the tree-toppers with her husband during the pandemic. (New York Post)
- December 22 — The Church of England’s issues are far from over. Following Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby’s resignation last month for his role in covering up serial abuse in the church, Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell is next in line for leadership. Unfortunately, Cottrell himself has now come under scrutiny for reportedly twice reappointing a priest who had previously been barred from ministry for having sex with minors. (The Guardian)
Week of December 15
- December 20 — Jonathan Roumie, the actor who plays Jesus in the hit television series The Chosen, spoke about the pressures and privileges that come with the role, and how he tries to stay both humble and energized when speaking to crowds of thousands or offering prayers of healing. Especially when fans conflate him with his character: “Psychologically they know I’m not Jesus, but they want me to be the next best thing.” (The New York Times, paywalled)
- December 19 — The precarious situation of Syria’s Christian population has been complicated in recent years by an influx of American converts to the Syrian Orthodox Church. The country saw its once-thriving Christian population drop from 3 million in 2011 to under 300,000 due to civil war. Efforts to protect and rebuild that remnant are partly dependent on American Orthodox converts, many of whom have conflicting allegiances. (RNS)
- December 18 — A stone tablet, claimed by Sotheby’s to be the oldest inscription of the Ten Commandments (with unique, Samaritan variations), sold for over $5 million to an anonymous buyer who plans to donate it to an Israeli institution. Estimated to be 1,500 years old, the tablet was discovered in 1913 being used as a paving stone. Its authenticity and provenance have recently been debated due to a lack of documentation. (The New York Times)
- December 18 — A Pew Research Center report on international religious freedom identified Egypt, Syria, Pakistan, and Iraq as countries where both government and social persecution severely limit religious freedom. These two issues were found to often coincide, though a direct causal link is unclear. Harassment against religious groups increased globally, affecting 145 (of 198) countries — up from 137 the previous year. (RNS)
- December 18 — In Nigeria, a violent clash between the United Methodist Church (UMC) and the breakaway Global Methodist Church (GMC) resulted in the deaths of three United Methodists, including two children, as well as homes set ablaze and many displaced. UMC leaders condemned the violence, calling for GMC leaders to do likewise and bring the perpetrators to justice, while urging United Methodists to remain peaceful. (The Christian Century)
- December 18 — Four years ago, Pat Forrester stepped down from his role as NASA’s chief astronaut to begin a pastoral internship at Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington, DC. Forrester went from flying jets, planning space trips, and building the International Space Station to a $1,300/mo. stipend alongside seven under-40 seminarians. Today, he’s developmental director of 9Marks, a ministry focused on building healthy churches. (The Gospel Coalition)
- December 18 — Watch out, Zoolander: the most in-demand male models (in Utah, at least) are long-haired, bearded men playing, you guessed it, Jesus. Alleged lookalikes of the Lord are being asked to pose in everything from family portraits to wedding announcements to bespoke gifts for Mom. Some report having “semireligious experiences” on the job; others, having to remind customers they are not, in fact, the Son of God. (Wall Street Journal, paywalled)
- December 16 — One of the greatest Christian relics, the Crown of Thorns was returned to the Cathedral of Notre Dame in a “solemn and fervent procession.” It was rescued dramatically in 2019 by the Paris fire department’s chaplain, Fr. Fournier, moments before the reliquary was engulfed in flames. Though its legitimacy has long been debated, the relic holds powerful symbolic importance to the Catholic community. (Aleteia)
- December 16 — A tragic shooting occurred at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin, where a 15-year-old student killed a teacher and another student, and wounded six others before dying from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The motive remains unclear, and the shooter’s family are cooperating with the investigation. The incident shocked the community and once again reopened debates around gun control. (AP)
- December 16 — Travis Timmerman, an American Christian who disappeared in Syria seven months ago, was found unharmed in prison after rebels overthrew Bashar Assad’s regime. He was freed, ironically, by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Efforts are ongoing to locate other missing Americans, including journalist Austin Tice. Timmerman is currently recovering in Damascus, and plans to return to the U.S. soon. (RNS)
- December 16 — When archaeologists excavated a six-foot limestone sarcophagus buried under the two-story annex of St. Nicholas Church in Antalya, Turkey, they knew in a moment it must be St. Nick. OK, not quite — but this is the most compelling evidence yet of the saint’s final resting place at a site long believed to house his tomb. Historical accounts suggest St. Nicholas was buried in the church following his death in 343 AD. (Aleteia)
- December 15 — Christians in Syria emotionally celebrated the first Sunday services since Bashar Assad’s government fell to Islamist insurgents Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Children even posed for photos under Christmas trees. Despite uncertainty under the new regime, most Christians expressed hope and gratitude that, “God willing, things will become better because we got rid of the tyrant.” (AP)
Week of December 8
- December 13 — Archaeologists in Germany discovered an “extraordinary” 1,750-year-old amulet with a silver scroll, marking the oldest evidence of Christianity north of the Alps. Found in a Roman-era grave in Frankfurt, the scroll dates to around 230-270 AD. Using 3D X-ray technology, researchers revealed 18 lines of Latin text with Bible references praising Jesus Christ. The amulet likely served as a protective talisman. (Christian Today)
- December 12 — The latest chapter of the State of the Bible report found that Bible-engaged Americans are the most charitable group in the country — as well as reporting higher happiness levels. While the wealthy give more in dollar amounts, smaller earners donate a higher percentage of their income. Families earning under $20,000 give up to 11% of their income, while those earning $100,000-$150,000 give only 2.9%. (Baptist Press, from American Bible Society)
- December 12 — Are we in a “golden age of Bible publishing”? Circana BookScan reported a 22% increase in U.S. Bible sales through October. This trend is driven in part by younger readers and first-time Bible purchasers looking for truth and stability. Other factors include social media influence, though its “lack of discipleship” should encourage caution, and the growth of note-taking Bibles. (Baptist Press)
- December 11 — Churches in China are adapting their Christmas celebrations in various ways due to tightening government regulations. Many churches have shifted from large events to smaller, more intimate gatherings, focusing on liturgical traditions and personal evangelism. Some churches have also questioned the holiday’s pagan roots, while a few continue to hold large events despite government pressure. (Christianity Today)
- December 10 — Archaeologists have unveiled significant findings at two ancient Assyrian sites. At Ashdod-Yam, they discovered a second-century BC military stronghold revealing Hellenistic coins and structures, indicating its strategic role in the Seleucid Empire. Meanwhile, at Dur-Sharrukin, advanced magnetometry unexpectedly uncovered previously unknown mega-buildings, including a 127-room villa. (Jerusalem Post)
- December 10 — In Italy, the battle lines of the “War on Christmas” look very different than they do in the U.S. Many evangelicals in the country reject the holiday, viewing it as unbiblical and hypocritical. This stance is more common among older generations, while younger evangelicals increasingly see value in the holiday’s familial and community aspects — as well as opportunities for evangelism. (Christianity Today)
- December 10 — In a story seemingly straight out of Hollywood, nuns in a Spanish convent have been excommunicated by the Vatican on allegations of financial mismanagement (or even fraud), fascist sympathizing, and ecclesial rebellion. The nuns, for their part, accuse the Vatican of dereliction of duty, saying they received no assistance to deal with economic instability, property disrepair, and demonic persecution. (New York Times, paywalled)
- December 10 — In Kenya, two major churches broke with tradition by rejecting donations from President William Ruto, citing concerns over independence and integrity. The Catholic and Anglican churches turned down 5 million Kenyan shillings each, while other Protestant churches encouraged their congregations to reject similar contributions. President Ruto insists his donations are driven by personal faith and experience. (RNS)
- December 10 — Christians in Nigeria have again been targeted in horrendous religious violence. Between November 24 and December 1, Fulani herdsmen killed 48 Christians in Nigeria’s Benue state, slaughtering villagers on their way to church and destroying local crops. Nigerian senators have called for “investigations” into the attacks. Nigeria remains the deadliest country for Christians, with thousands killed and kidnapped annually. (Christian Today)
- December 9 — Ukrainian Christians remain resilient and optimistic for “a just peace” amid the ongoing war with Russia, according to Southern Baptist leader Dan Darling, who recently toured Ukraine and Poland. Despite the destruction of over 640 houses of worship and the banning of evangelical churches in Russian-occupied areas, the church in Ukraine is growing, planting new congregations, and aiding displaced Christians. (Baptist Press)
- December 9 — Contrary to the general narrative, a recent study found that most religious congregations in the U.S. are not politically active. About 40% engaged in political activities over 12 months, mostly infrequently, and just 23% identified as politically active. Congregations with diverse views tend to avoid political discussions to prevent conflicts, though topics such as immigration or abortion may show up in sermons. (RNS)
- December 9 — With Syria now largely under control of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) Islamist rebels, Christians in the region face a precarious future. Many have fled, but some remain, supported by local church leaders. Despite HTS’s assurances of protection, fears persist due to their history of targeting religious minorities, and Christian Solidarity International has warned of potential threats. (Christian Today)
- December 8 — Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris reopened after a five-year, €700 million restoration following a devastating fire in 2019. The ceremony, attended by world leaders including French President Emmanuel Macron, U.S. President-Elect Donald Trump, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, included a mass led by the Archbishop of Paris, followed by a concert with Pharrell Williams. The cathedral reopens to tourists on Dec. 16. (The Guardian and Christian Today)
- December 8 — In India, misinformation has fueled violence against Christians, notably in the 2023 Manipur clashes, which displaced thousands. The United Christian Forum reported over 687 attacks on Christians this year. To combat this challenge, Christian organizations such as the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India and the United Religions Initiative are enhancing media literacy and promoting interfaith dialogue. (Religion Unplugged)
Week of December 1
- December 5 — A decade after the World Evangelical Alliance (WEA) canceled its 2014 General Assembly in South Korea due to internal divisions, similar divisions have resurfaced as the WEA again plans to hold its 2025 assembly in Seoul. Many Korean evangelical leaders advertised a boycott of the WEA, suggesting the organization is insufficiently conservative due to its emphasis on social and ecumenical concerns. (Christianity Today)
- December 5 — Archaeologists in Turkey uncovered a 5th-century bronze pendant in the ancient Byzantine city of Hadrianopolis, depicting King Solomon on horseback spearing the devil. This unique artifact, the first of its kind found in the region, features Greek inscriptions naming four archangels, and was probably intended to provide protection to a cavalry soldier. (Aleteia, from Smithsonian Magazine)
- December 5 — In other Byzantine archaeology news, a 1,500-year-old Christian basilica was discovered in Aquileia, Italy, by researchers from the Austrian Archaeological Institute. Dating to the reign of Emperor Justinian I (527-565 AD), the basilica’s Byzantine architectural influences reflect Justinian’s efforts to restore Catholic orthodoxy in a region previously influenced by Arianism by tying it back to earlier Christian tradition. (Aleteia)
- December 3 — According to Lifeway Research, fewer Americans than ever say they “typically” attend church on Christmas: only 47% do so, while 48% do not (5% are undecided). The religiously unaffiliated, especially younger people, are least likely to attend, but 40% might consider it if invited by someone they trust — suggesting the importance of intentional outreach as churches and families prepare for Christmas services. (RELEVANT)
- December 3 — Christianity Today released their 2024 Book Awards, featuring tons of excellent reads in the fields of apologetics, Bible studies, theology, and even children’s and fiction books. Their top choice? What It Means to Be Protestant by Gavin Ortlund, which presents a case for the “always reforming” church — and its engagement with the Bible — especially for younger believers considering defecting to other faiths. (Christianity Today)
- December 3 — A school in Finland canceled a performance of Handel’s “Messiah” due to opposition to Christian music. A tribunal ruled that a primary school discriminated against non-Christian students by performing religious concerts and recommended compensation — which the city’s education board then voted against. Finnish MP Päivi Räsänen criticized the discrimination claims as defying common sense. (Christian Today)
- December 2 — Recent excavations at Banias in northern Israel have revealed that a cave once dedicated to the Greek god Pan was transformed into a Roman-style banquet hall by Herod Agrippa II in the late 1st century AD, following the Jewish Revolt against Roman rule. The discovery supports historical accounts by Josephus. The area, as part of Caesarea Philippi, later became a Christian pilgrimage site (cf. Mt 16:13, Mk 8:27). (Times of Israel)
- December 1 — AI Jesus and MMA Jesus; Anglican abuse and evangelical embezzlement; politics in the church and the Bible in schools; ancient buildings uncovered and others digitally recreated. Did the Exodus really happen? Was Martha actually Mary? All that plus tons of faith-based films and faith-following statistics: Read the biggest, strangest, and most inspiring Bible and church news stories of November.
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