[bert]

.....Could have been the reason Herod was intent on eliminating any contender to the throne.....

The assertion was that Matthew presents two lineages for Jesus. He and perhaps his twin brother Thomas traced back along the priestly lineage and were eligible for controlling the priests of the temple and also back to David thus establishing the claim to the throne. The twins were thus able to rule it all with the status of king and head priest.

Jesus thus was feared by not only Herod but also Caiphus the priest.

[Eastbound]

I haven't seen any of the movies on this, but I'm sure there are/were several made through the years that tried to unravel the mystery of the 'Holy Grail.' I wonder if any of them, especially the ones that are coming out today make any mention of the reason the RCC wants/wanted to keep the 'rumor' supressed -- and if that reason could be what our replies are referencing concerning authority over the church?

Along with the possiblity that the 'manuscripts' may contain information that the church may be in error on some points.

[Eastbound]

"The twins were thus able to rule it all with the status of king and head priest."

A fitting allegory and harbinger for the 'kingdom not of this world' and the 'temple not made with hands.' Who enters the 'holy of holies' but the high priest -- the twin. ;)

[RobbyS]

"Twin Brother"? the only thing factual here is that Thomas means twin.