This week on Tell Me More, hosts Katy Reed Hodges, Luke Stehr, and Dr. Dennis Wiles celebrate a major milestone—175 episodes of conversations, curiosity, and community! The trio takes a moment to look back on the history of the podcast, remembering its early days, how it has grown, and the countless stories and sermons that have shaped the journey so far.

After a bit of well-earned celebration, the hosts dive into Dr. Wiles’ sermon from this past Sunday, “Born The King, Ne’er a Prince!” They unpack the rich historical, cultural, and theological backdrop surrounding the birth of Jesus—revealing why the Magi came searching, why Herod trembled, and how ancient expectations all pointed toward a promised ruler unlike any other.

Together, they explore:

• Jewish expectation after the Exile and the longing for a new Son of David
• Prophecies like Numbers 24:17 and Daniel 9:25 that fueled Messianic hope
• Eastern Gentile perspectives, including the Parthian Magi who studied the signs
• Roman-era anticipation of a coming world ruler from Judea
• Herod’s political fear, rooted in his fragile claim to the throne
• The astonishing moment when the Magi found Jesus and “rejoiced with exceedingly great joy”

Dr. Wiles reflects on how all of history—Jewish, Persian, Roman—converged on that single moment in Bethlehem, revealing the profound truth that Jesus was not born to become King… He was born the King.

Join the conversation as the hosts celebrate the past 175 episodes and look forward to many more, all while centering the story of the One who reigns over all of history.