Should Christians Celebrate Christmas?

Christmas is a widely observed tradition around the world. Hence, the question arises: Should Christians celebrate Christmas? This document explores the historical background, Biblical perspectives, and personal convictions regarding the observance of Christmas.

Historical Background of Christmas

The Bible does not specify Jesus' birth date, and early Christians did not celebrate it. As Christianity expanded across the Roman Empire, December 25th was chosen to align with existing pagan festivals like the Roman Saturnalia and the birthday of the sun god Sol Invictus. In the 4th century, during Constantine's reign, the Catholic Church in Rome started celebrating Christmas on December 25 in 336 AD, in a bid to “replace” the pagan festivities.

Biblical Perspective

The Bible does not command Christians to celebrate the birth of Jesus, nor does it provide a specific date for the event. The focus in the New Testament is on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and the benefits obtained therein (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4).

God has ordained that His people remember His Son’s sacrifice, His cross, His death, His burial, and His triumphal resurrection through the institution of the Lord’s Supper that must be observed every Sunday when they assemble for worship (Matthew 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:14-20; Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 11:23-29). The Bible is silent about Christmas.

Arguments Against Celebrating Christmas

The reasons we do not observe the birth of Jesus annually and religiously are as follows:

1. The Bible does not reveal the day, season, or year Jesus was born; therefore, Christians must not think or go beyond what is written by celebrating Christ’s birth on December 25 or any other day (1 Corinthians 4:6; Revelation 22:18–19).

2.  The Bible is silent about Christmas. There is no Biblical authority for us to celebrate Jesus’ birth religiously (Matthew 28:18; Colossians 3:17).

3.  Christmas is of pagan origins (see Historical background).

4.  There is no record of the first-century church celebrating the birth of Jesus.

5.  Christmas originated from men and not God (Matthew 15:9).

Can Christmas be celebrated secularly?

Nowadays, Christmas is increasingly becoming a secular and cultural event, where family gatherings, feasts, and gift exchanges take precedence over religious observance. It has even been adopted in countries like Japan, where the population is not predominantly Christian. Christmas has been so commercialized that merchants count on the Christmas season to bring in the lion's share of their profits each year.

Some Christians celebrate Christmas secularly. Here are some reasons that they may do so: as an opportunity to renew faith, as an opportunity for evangelism, as an opportunity for family and community to get together.

How Should Christians Celebrate Christmas?

A word of caution to those who celebrate Christmas: There is a Secular Christmas and a Religious Christmas.

We should attach no religious significance to this holiday season! We must teach our children that all religious traditions of Christmas are false! Using Christmas as a national holiday to exchange gifts and visit with family and friends is not wrong. It is an opportunity to strengthen family ties, teach unselfishness, and promote cheer and goodwill.

Conclusion

December 25 is not the birthday of Jesus; it never has been, and it never will be! Whether or not to celebrate Christmas is ultimately a matter of personal conviction, guided by faith, conscience, and understanding of Scripture.

Paul says: “Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth” (Romans 14:22).

BUT TAKE NOTE: Religious Christmas does not belong in our assemblies because it is not authorized! Secular Christmas also does not belong in our assemblies because it is not authorized! A Christian may participate in or celebrate the Christmas season as long as they do not subscribe to the religious aspect of it. So, enjoy this festive time of the year with your friends and loved ones.