(CNN) The Republican National Committee is dismissing suggestions Sunday that its Christmas message heralded President-elect Donald Trump as a "new King."
The message from RNC chairman Reince Priebus says, "Over two millennia ago, a new hope was born into the world, a Savior who would offer the promise of salvation to all mankind. Just as the three wise men did on that night, this Christmas heralds a time to celebrate the good news of a new King."
That touched off a discussion on social media in which some claimed the "King" reference appeared to be about Trump, while others argued that was absurd and that it was clearly about Jesus Christ.
RNC spokesman and incoming White House press secretary Sean Spicer said the reference had nothing to do with Trump. "Christ is the King in the Christian faith," he told CNN.
Spicer later tweeted in part that it was "sad & disappointing you are politicizing such a holy day" in response to a reporter's question about the RNC statement.
Last year's Christmas message from Priebus made no reference to a "King."
RELATED: Trump's raised-fist Christmas wishes
Priebus has been named as Trump's White House chief of staff.
His message also said the country "must also remember those among us who are less fortunate" and honored the troops.