How Should Christians Think About Christmas?

Christmas is a widely celebrated holiday that often sparks a range of opinions among Christians. Some embrace it as a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, while others question its origins and traditions. How should Christians think about Christmas? Let’s turn to Scripture and consider biblical principles to guide our perspective.

The Biblical Significance of Christ’s Birth

Although the Bible does not command the celebration of Christmas, it emphasizes the significance of Christ’s incarnation. In Luke 2:10-11, the angel proclaimed, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”

Jesus’ birth fulfilled Old Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 7:14, which foretold the virgin birth, and Micah 5:2, which identified Bethlehem as the Messiah’s birthplace. These events remind us of God’s faithfulness and the profound significance of Christ’s coming to redeem humanity.

Examining Christmas Traditions

1. Origins of Christmas

Some Christians are concerned about Christmas’s association with pagan festivals. While it’s true that early Christians adapted certain traditions, the intent was to redeem these practices and focus on Christ. Colossians 2:16-17 reminds us, “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.”

2. Gift-Giving and Generosity

The act of giving gifts at Christmas reflects the ultimate gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. As John 3:16 states, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” Christians can use this tradition as an opportunity to demonstrate love and generosity, echoing God’s grace.

3. Decorations and Symbols

Christmas decorations, such as lights and nativity scenes, can serve as reminders of Christ’s light entering a dark world (John 8:12). However, Christians should guard against materialism and idolatry, ensuring that their focus remains on Christ.

Principles for Celebrating Christmas

Here are some biblical principles to guide Christians in their approach to Christmas:

1. Focus on Christ

Keep Christ at the center of your celebration. Reflect on His birth, life, death, and resurrection, and use the season as an opportunity to share the gospel (Matthew 28:19).

2. Exercise Christian Freedom

Romans 14:5-6 encourages believers to honor God according to their convictions: “One person esteems one day as better than another, while another esteems all days alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind. The one who observes the day, observes it in honor of the Lord.” Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, do so with a heart that honors God.

3. Avoid Materialism

Jesus warned against the dangers of wealth and materialism (Matthew 6:19-21). Use Christmas as an opportunity to practice contentment and generosity, focusing on eternal treasures.

4. Be a Light to Others

Christmas provides a unique opportunity to share God’s love with others. Whether through acts of kindness, sharing the gospel, or inviting others to church, let your light shine before others (Matthew 5:16).

While the Bible does not command the celebration of Christmas, it provides principles to guide our approach. By focusing on Christ, exercising Christian freedom, avoiding materialism, and being a light to others, Christians can celebrate Christmas in a way that glorifies God and reflects the true meaning of the season.

As Paul writes in Colossians 3:17, “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”