This presentation attempts to re-examine the traditions surrounding the birth of Jesus. Host Julie Kennedy and lecturer Barry Setterfield attempt to narrow down the time frame of the birth of Jesus. Setterfield challenges some long standing traditions regarding whether or not Joseph and Mary actually stayed at an inn, what date Jesus was born on, and the tradition of the Magi, or three wisemen. In fact, some Christians who hold to the belief of the story of the innkeeper and the three wisemen may actually find themselves challenging Setterfield as he attempts to challenge them.
Setterfield attempts to use astronomy and what he says are original meanings of words used in scripture to back up his beliefs. It is a concern that this DVD is called “The Christmas Star: The True Story” because there will be those who will not believe it is the true story due to its alarming disagreements with church tradition. The lectures basically amount to, “This is what you have believed for years and you are wrong!” Unfortunately, the lectures add little useful information. On a positive note, there are scripture readings of the birth of Jesus and of Bethlehem in the DVD which adds a nice touch. We do award the Dove Seal to the film for ages twelve and up, as the controversy and subject matter will make it difficult for the very young to sit through. Older viewers may find it interesting as they search scriptures to see if they agree with Setterfield or not.