The question of whether Christians should celebrate Christmas, based on biblical principles, has been the subject of debate among different Christian groups.
Some Christians, particularly those from more conservative or sectarian traditions, argue against celebrating Christmas, citing the following reasons:
1. No Biblical Command or Example to Celebrate Jesus’ Birth on December 25th
• Lack of Biblical Basis: The Bible does not command or even mention the celebration of Jesus’ birth, let alone a specific date for it.
The New Testament focuses more on the death and resurrection of Jesus, which are central to Christian faith (e.g., 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, Romans 10:9). The early Christians did not celebrate Jesus’ birth as a holiday, and there is no scriptural mandate for doing so.
• December 25th Is Not Likely His Birthdate: The Bible doesn’t provide a date for the birth of Jesus. Scholars believe that Jesus was likely born in a different season, and the choice of December 25th was made centuries later by the church, possibly to coincide with Roman pagan festivals such as the "Sol Invictus" (the festival of the "Unconquered Sun").
Some Christians argue that celebrating a day that is not based on biblical teachings could be seen as a tradition imposed by human customs rather than divine instruction.
2. Pagan Origins and Syncretism
• Pagan Roots: The celebration of Christmas on December 25th aligns closely with ancient pagan festivals, including the Roman festival of Saturnalia and the birthday of the sun god. Some Christians view Christmas as a syncretistic holiday that blends Christian elements with pagan traditions. The use of Christmas trees, mistletoe, and other symbols may have roots in pre-Christian pagan rituals.
• Condemnation of Pagan Worship in the Bible: The Bible warns against adopting pagan practices and blending them with worship of God. For example, in Deuteronomy 12:29-31, God commands the Israelites not to adopt the worship practices of the nations around them.
Similarly, in Jeremiah 10:2-4, the prophet condemns the cutting down of trees and decorating them, which some critics associate with the origins of the Christmas tree. Some argue that participating in a holiday with such pagan connections is inconsistent with biblical admonitions to avoid idolatry.
3. Emphasis on Traditions Over True Worship
• Danger of Idolatry: Some Christians argue that Christmas celebrations may divert attention away from true worship and devotion to God, focusing instead on materialism, consumerism, and secular customs.
The Bible repeatedly warns against the danger of elevating traditions, customs, and worldly celebrations over the worship of God. In Mark 7:6-9, Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for honoring God with their lips but neglecting His commands by following human traditions.
• Apostolic Warnings Against Holidays: In Colossians 2:16-17, Paul writes, "Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath.
These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ." Some interpret this passage as a warning against placing too much importance on certain festivals or holidays, suggesting that they are not central to Christian faith and should not be elevated to the same status as the worship of Christ and the truths of the gospel.
These reasons highlight why some Christians, particularly from more conservative or non-liturgical traditions, may choose not to celebrate Christmas. They argue that Christmas has pagan origins, lacks a biblical foundation, and could distract from the true focus of worship, which is Jesus Christ.
However, many Christians from other traditions celebrate Christmas as a time to remember and honor the birth of Jesus, seeing it as an opportunity for evangelism, reflection, and community, even if the date itself is not explicitly mentioned in Scripture.
Ultimately, the decision to celebrate Christmas is a matter of individual or denominational conviction, and it should be approached with a desire to honor God and remain faithful to biblical teachings.
Indvidual choose to celebrate or not! No one to judge his decision