How Archeology Illuminates Christmas: Why Every Discovery Brings Scripture to Life

Join Shannon Bream as she welcomes Dr. Bobby Duke, Chief Curatorial Officer at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C., to discuss how archeological discoveries illuminate Scripture and bring it into living color. With a PhD in Near Eastern Languages and Cultures from UCLA and an MA in Hebrew Bible from Jerusalem University College, Dr. Duke’s journey began with a calling to ministry in junior high, but after his college roommate died of a heart attack in his arms, he found himself on a different path. Inspired by John Wesley’s requirement that ministers know Hebrew, he headed to Jerusalem to study, and the doors kept opening. As we celebrate Christmas this season, Dr. Duke shares stunning discoveries that confirm the historical reality of Jesus’ existence and ministry, including the Megiddo Mosaic (the earliest church floor ever discovered, dating to the third century) found in an active Israeli prison, which features the earliest archeological mention of “the God Jesus Christ.” He explains how the mosaic shows a diverse early church community—centurions, workmen, and women—worshiping together around the communion table, living out Paul’s teaching about breaking down barriers. From the Magdala stone (found in a first century synagogue Jesus likely attended) to the Dead Sea Scrolls – which will be on display at the Museum through September 2026 – Dr. Duke emphasizes that he doesn’t look to archeology to prove the Bible but to illuminate it, helping faithful readers see Scripture transform from black and white to full color—offering confidence this Christmas that the Jesus we celebrate truly walked this earth.