- Introduction
- Section I: the origins, negatives and positives
- Section II: The Secular elements
- Closing Remarks: A Conscientious Christian Perspective on Christmas
Introduction
In this short book, I seek to present a biblical perspective on the festival we have come to know, enjoy, and love as Christmas. I will draw upon historical facts and passages of Scripture to set forth my case regarding the origins and nature of Christmas.
My intention is not to persuade readers either for or against the celebration of Christmas. Rather, my aim is to bring to light the truth surrounding a festival in which so many willingly participate.
In the Western world, Christmas is widely recognised as a Christian festival commemorating the birth of the Christ child. Growing up in the United Kingdom, I eagerly anticipated the Christmas season and wholeheartedly took part in what I believed to be a Christian holiday. For many years, I joined in the celebration that is said to mark the most important birth in human history.
However, when I began to examine the roots and origins of Christmas more closely, I was shocked by what I discovered. It is these discoveries that I wish to share with you in this book.
My study of Christmas began with an open mind and simple curiosity. I had a strong desire to understand why this celebration exists and where it originated. This booklet has been written with facts, truth, and Scripture at its foundation. As Christians, we are called by Scripture to be honest, discerning, and trustworthy in all things.
This work is intended as a brief overview of some of the customs and traditions associated with Christmas; therefore, not every aspect of the celebration is addressed.
Many Christians have never closely examined the subject of Christmas or questioned their participation in it. It is for this reason that I felt compelled to write this booklet. My motive is to present Christian readers with historical facts and biblical truth concerning Christmas.
Yours heartily in Christ,
Nathan A. Hughes
Section I: the origins, negatives and positives
Prior to AD 335, the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ was not a recognized part of Christian life. The word Christmas has its origins within Roman Catholic tradition, with the term first appearing in AD 1038. The precise origins of many Christmas customs and traditions are not entirely clear, as scholars and historians offer differing accounts of their roots. Rather than attempting to resolve every historical debate, I will present what can be established as fact and allow the reader to draw their own conclusions.
No one should ever be compelled to act against their conscience by participating in a festival or celebration they believe to be wrong. Believers are free either to accept or to reject Christmas; what is wrong is pressuring others to conform to one’s personal convictions in the absence of clear scriptural teaching. For example, when the virgin birth of Christ is questioned, Scripture provides clear and authoritative testimony. By contrast, there is no explicit biblical command that either requires or forbids the celebration of Christmas. Therefore, we must rely on biblical principles rather than direct commands when forming our views on this subject.
The statement “You shall not celebrate Christmas” does not appear anywhere in Scripture. Some argue that the absence of such a prohibition grants believers liberty in Christ to celebrate it. Others contend that since God never commands the observance of Christmas, Christians should refrain from it altogether. While both perspectives have merit, I do not believe the issue is that simple. These arguments provide a starting point, but a deeper examination is necessary when addressing such an important topic.
Romans 14:5–6 is especially relevant here:
“One person regards one day above another, another regards every day alike. Each person must be fully convinced in his own mind. He who observes the day, observes it for the Lord, and he who eats, does so for the Lord, for he gives thanks to God; and he who eats not, for the Lord he does not eat, and gives thanks to God.”
Each person must be fully convinced in their own mind that their practice honours the Lord. Some regard certain days as special, while others view all days equally. I believe the question of celebrating Christmas falls squarely within the teaching of Romans 14.
If you choose to regard December 25 as a day set apart to honour the Lord and reflect on the birth of Christ, and you can do so with a clear conscience before God, that is acceptable. Likewise, if you regard December 25 as no different from any other day, that too is acceptable. The key issue is whether what we do is done sincerely for the glory and honour of God.
At this time of year, phrases such as “Jesus is the reason for the season” and “Let’s put Christ back into Christmas” are often heard. But is Jesus truly the focus of this season? Is Christ genuinely at the centre of Christmas? These are questions worth examining carefully.
There is also an important distinction to be made between how Christmas is celebrated by the unbelieving world and how it may be observed within godly Christian households. The church must be careful not to adopt the world’s attitudes and practices uncritically. There are both positive and negative aspects of Christmas that deserve thoughtful consideration.
The Negative Aspects of Christmas
While Christmas is widely celebrated and enjoyed, there are several negative aspects of the season that deserve careful consideration.
1. Overindulgence in food and alcohol
During Christmas, excessive eating and drinking are often socially accepted and even encouraged. Drunkenness and gluttony are treated lightly when people are said to be in the “Christmas spirit.” Overindulgence is rarely viewed as a serious concern, even though it has clear consequences for health. Many people gain significant weight during this period, negatively affecting their well-being. While such behaviour occurs at other times of the year, it is far more widespread and normalized during the Christmas season.
2. Entitlement and misplaced expectations surrounding gifts
Christmas often creates an expectation—or even a demand—for gifts. This cultivates a spirit of greed and discontentment, particularly among children. When expectations are not met, discouragement and disappointment can take root in the heart. Gifts, by their very nature, should be freely given, without pressure or obligation. The giver should give from a sincere desire and a willing heart, not because of expectation or social coercion.
3. Materialism overshadowing spiritual priorities
Another troubling aspect of the season is its strong emphasis on materialism. A desire for material possessions rather than spiritual growth and blessing ought to be deeply concerning for Christians. To crave more and more possessions is, in effect, to grumble against what God has already provided in His mercy and grace. Such attitudes reflect dissatisfaction rather than gratitude.
4. Consumerism and the love of money
Closely connected to materialism is consumerism. During the Christmas season, both businesses and consumers often develop an unhealthy love for money. Retailers are rarely motivated by concern for people’s financial well-being; their goal is to maximize profit. This becomes evident when prices drop significantly just weeks after December 25. Businesses know people will spend more for that “special day.” As a result, many individuals spend money they do not have, accumulate debt, and enter the new year burdened by financial obligations. Living beyond one’s means becomes an unwise but common mindset in the weeks leading up to Christmas.
5. Decline in diligence and work ethic
Christmas also tends to foster laziness and complacency in the workplace. A lethargic, holiday mindset often takes over, harming productivity and responsibility. Many people assume they are entitled to slow down and “take it easy” in the days and weeks leading up to Christmas Day, regardless of their obligations.
6. Teaching children falsehoods about Santa Claus
The most serious concern surrounding Christmas is the practice of teaching children to believe in Father Christmas or Santa Claus. While the world may regard this as harmless fun, Christians should not adopt the same view. Why would a Christian knowingly teach a child something that is untrue? Many dismiss this issue by calling it innocent entertainment, but the implications deserve serious reflection.
What message does it send to a child when they eventually discover they were deliberately lied to? Could this cause them to question other truths they were taught—such as the gospel and the things of God? Might it lead them to doubt what they were told about the Lord Jesus Christ? It is difficult to understand why anyone who professes faith in Christ would justify lying to a child.
Lying is never harmless. It is always sinful. Scripture is clear that falsehood originates from Satan, for the Lord Jesus said, “When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44). God’s view of lying is unmistakable: “Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight” (Proverbs 12:22).
The Positive Aspects of Christmas
There are several positive aspects of Christmas that are worth careful consideration.
First, those who do not ordinarily attend public worship on the Lord’s Day are often more willing to enter a church building during the Christmas season. Many who would otherwise stay away are prepared to attend special services or carol gatherings at this time of year. Even if their motives are mixed, they are nevertheless placing themselves under the sound of God’s Word and among God’s people. Scripture reminds us that faith is born through exposure to the Word of God: “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17) Any opportunity for individuals to hear God’s Word proclaimed publicly must surely be a good thing.
Second, the unsaved are far more likely at Christmas time to hear the biblical account of the birth of Christ. The story of the incarnation—God sending His Son into the world—is read, spoken of, and sung about more openly than at most other times of the year. Even those who rarely think about spiritual matters are confronted with the person of Christ and the reason for His coming. The angelic announcement itself reminds us of the universal significance of this message: “For today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:11) This increased exposure to the gospel message must be considered a good thing.
Third, many schools continue to hold nativity plays in which the birth of Christ is clearly presented. In an increasingly secular culture, it is striking that children are still learning lines about angels, shepherds, wise men, and the newborn King. These events often draw parents and extended family members who might otherwise never hear such truths. God has often used children as instruments to make His truth known: “Out of the mouth of infants and nursing babes You have prepared praise for Yourself.” (Matthew 21:16). The public retelling of Christ’s birth in this way must surely be a good thing.
Fourth, during the month of December, Christianity receives more public recognition than at any other time of the year. Christian themes appear in music, literature, advertising, and public conversation. While this attention may be imperfect and sometimes superficial, it nevertheless keeps the name of Christ before the wider society. Scripture reminds us that Christ is not hidden but revealed to the world: “There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man.” (John 1:9). In a culture that often seeks to marginalize Christianity, this seasonal prominence must be regarded as a good thing.
Fifth, one of my personal favorites is the regular performance of Handel’s Messiah during the Christmas season, both in theatres and through radio and television broadcasts. This extraordinary work is composed entirely of Scripture, presenting profound biblical truths through powerful music. In its complete form, Messiah lasts approximately two and a half hours, during which listeners are immersed in the words of Scripture. God’s Word does not return empty: “So will My word be which goes forth from My mouth; It will not return to Me empty, without accomplishing what I desire.” (Isaiah 55:11). That so many people are hearing Scripture in this way must certainly be a good thing.
Finally, Christmas often brings with it a noticeable softening of hearts. People tend to be less self-centered, and a spirit of goodwill is more commonly displayed. Acts of kindness, generosity, and compassion are encouraged and celebrated more openly at this time of year than at any other. Such behavior reflects, even if imperfectly, the moral influence of Christianity upon society. Scripture calls believers to lives marked by kindness and love: “So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” (Colossians 3:12). The promotion of kindness and goodwill toward others must surely be a good thing.
1 Thessalonians 5:21–22 instructs us, “But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil.” This command to “examine everything carefully” reminds believers that we are not to accept practices simply because we were taught them from a young age or because they are culturally familiar. The sinful world around us constantly encourages participation in various forms of wickedness, but as believers, we are called to think differently. Our minds are to be renewed and transformed by the Word of God, not shaped by the values of the world.
This principle is reinforced in Colossians 2:8, which warns, “See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ.” For Christians, it should be of utmost importance to follow God’s Word rather than human traditions or man-made observances. Jesus Himself addressed this issue in Mark 7:13, saying, “thus invalidating the word of God by your tradition which you have handed down; and you do many things such as that.” Scripture consistently calls believers to measure all beliefs and practices by God’s truth, holding firmly to what is good and rejecting everything that contradicts His Word.
Section II: The Secular elements
A recurring topic of scholarly discussion concerns the actual time of year in which Jesus Christ was born. While December 25 has traditionally been observed as the date of Christ’s birth, there is no explicit biblical evidence supporting this conclusion. Several indicators within the Gospel narratives suggest that Jesus was more likely born during the autumn months rather than in mid-winter.
One commonly cited detail is the presence of shepherds tending their flocks outdoors at night at the time of Jesus’ birth (Luke 2:8). In Judea, shepherds typically kept their flocks in open fields during the milder seasons of spring through early autumn, rather than during the colder and rainier winter months.
“In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night.”
(Luke 2:8)
Additionally, the census described in Luke 2 would have required widespread travel. It is considered unlikely that the Roman authorities would mandate such travel during winter, when conditions would have been more difficult and potentially hazardous.
“Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken of all the inhabited earth.”
(Luke 2:1)
While Scripture does not provide a definitive date, these contextual details suggest that a winter birth—specifically December 25—is improbable.
Historical Explanations for December 25
The association of December 25 with the celebration of Christ’s birth appears to emerge from historical developments rather than from apostolic teaching or biblical mandate. Scholars and historians have proposed various explanations for the adoption of this date.
One widely discussed explanation involves the Roman Empire during the fourth century. Under Emperor Constantine, Christianity transitioned from a persecuted faith to a state-supported religion. Some historians argue that existing pagan festivals were adapted in order to facilitate the conversion of pagan populations. One such festival was Saturnalia, a Roman celebration honoring the god Saturn, which began on December 17 and extended for several days. Another related observance was Dies Solis Invicti (“the Birthday of the Unconquered Sun”), celebrated on December 25.
Alexander Hislop, in The Two Babylons, argues that these celebrations had earlier roots in Babylonian religion and were later assimilated into Christian practice. While Hislop’s conclusions are debated among scholars, his work reflects a broader concern about syncretism—the blending of pagan customs with Christian worship.
Scripture repeatedly warns against adopting pagan religious practices and attaching them to the worship of the true God.
“You shall not learn to imitate the detestable things of those nations.”
(Deuteronomy 18:9)
“Thus says the LORD, ‘Do not learn the way of the nations…’”
(Jeremiah 10:2)
Extra-Biblical Traditions Concerning Nimrod
Another explanation for December 25 arises from extra-biblical tradition surrounding the figure of Nimrod, who is mentioned in Genesis as a powerful ruler and founder of early kingdoms.
“Now Cush became the father of Nimrod; he became a mighty one on the earth.”
(Genesis 10:8)
Later traditions, though not supported directly by Scripture, associate Nimrod with the Tower of Babel and portray him as a rebellious figure in opposition to God. These traditions further claim that Nimrod was born on December 25 and that after his death, his wife (or mother, according to some accounts), Semiramis, promoted beliefs involving rebirth symbolism associated with an evergreen tree. According to these accounts, gifts placed beneath the tree commemorated Nimrod’s supposed return to life.
It must be emphasized that these claims are extra-biblical and should not be treated as historical fact. However, they are often cited in discussions regarding the symbolic origins of certain Christmas traditions.
Biblical Perspective on Worship
While Scripture does not condemn the remembrance of Christ’s birth, it places strong emphasis on worship that is rooted in truth and obedience rather than tradition.
“But in vain do they worship Me,
Teaching as doctrines the precepts of men.”
(Matthew 15:9)
“Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
(1 Corinthians 10:31)
From a biblical perspective, the primary concern is not the observance of a specific date, but whether worship honors God according to His revealed Word. Christians are therefore encouraged to evaluate traditions carefully and to ensure that their faith and practice remain grounded in Scripture rather than in cultural or historical customs.
The Christmas Tree
Those who argue that Christmas trees are pagan in origin and therefore forbidden for Christians often appeal to Jeremiah 10:1–4. This passage describes the cutting down of a tree, shaping it into an idol, and adorning it with silver and gold.
Opponents of the Christmas tree frequently stop reading at verse four. However, continuing through the passage provides important context. The practice described involved attributing divine powers to the object—believing it could speak, act, or influence good and evil. Christians who place a Christmas tree in their homes do not believe the tree is a god or an object of worship. Therefore, the issue in Jeremiah is not merely the act of bringing a tree indoors, but the creation and veneration of an idol.
Some objectors claim that bringing a tree indoors itself is inherently pagan. Yet Isaiah 60:13 presents a contrasting picture, where God speaks of the fir tree and the pine tree being brought into His sanctuary to beautify it. This demonstrates that Scripture does not forbid the use of trees indoors. The sin condemned in Jeremiah was not cutting down a tree or decorating it, but fashioning it into a graven image and worshiping it.
That said, while most Christmas observers would deny that they “worship” their tree, it is worth considering how the tree functions in many homes. It often occupies a central place, with gifts laid at its base and significant time and effort devoted to its decoration. Although the passages discussed do not prove that Christmas trees are forbidden, they do highlight how easily the tree can become a focal point of honour. A child of God must be careful not to give undue honour or reverence to anything that does not deserve it.
Historically, the Christmas tree traces back to Yule customs practiced by Germanic pagan peoples. In the United Kingdom, the Christmas tree was introduced in 1841 by Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria. He brought the tradition from Germany and displayed a decorated tree at Windsor Castle. After the royal family was depicted with their tree in a newspaper, the custom quickly became fashionable throughout England and the wider United Kingdom.
The Birth of Christ
According to long-standing tradition, Jesus Christ was born on December 25, and His birth has been commemorated on that date for centuries. However, as previously noted, this date is highly unlikely to be historically accurate. Its origins lie in pagan Rome, where festivals were held around the winter solstice.
These celebrations included honouring Saturn, the Roman god of agriculture, as well as the worship of Sol and Mithra—both sun deities, with Mithra originating from Persian religion. The theme of light overcoming darkness was central to these observances.
The Roman Catholic Church later adopted December 25, redefining its meaning in an effort to make Christianity more acceptable to pagan converts. The birth of Christ was framed as the arrival of the “Light of the World,” mirroring earlier pagan themes. The intent was to portray Christianity as triumphing over spiritual darkness by absorbing and redefining existing religious festivals.
However, neither the apostles nor the early church celebrated the birth of Jesus. Scripture does not command believers to observe His birthday. Instead, the Bible places primary emphasis on Christ’s death and resurrection. This raises an important question: should Christian worship be grounded in Scripture, or in man-made traditions?
The historical reality is that many Christmas customs emerged from Roman Catholic adaptations of pagan festivals. These origins matter. If we dismiss them, we miss the point entirely. The only worship acceptable to God is that which He has revealed in His Word.
Scripture teaches that we are to worship God in spirit and in truth. The truth is that we are not commanded to celebrate Christ’s birth. Yet this does not mean that Christians cannot or should not acknowledge it. What Scripture does forbid is fellowship with pagan practices and customs. We cannot justify participating in traditions that are rooted in paganism or marked by ungodly behaviour.
If a Christian chooses to commemorate the birth of Christ in a godly, Christ-honouring manner, that can be a good and honourable thing. Above all, Scripture warns believers not to participate in worldly, wicked, or frivolous celebrations. Therefore, how Christ’s birth is marked is of great importance.
Fun and Gift-Giving
To understand the origins of gift-giving and festive revelry associated with Christmas, we must again look to ancient Rome. The Saturnalian festivals, which concluded around December 24, involved the exchange of gifts and were marked by excessive drinking, overeating, riotous behaviour, and other ungodly practices. This is the historical source of much of the modern Christmas party atmosphere.
Joy and generosity, however, are genuine gifts from God and clear marks of true worship. Scripture speaks of this often. David writes in Psalm 32:11,“Be glad in the LORD and rejoice, you righteous ones; And shout for joy, all you who are upright in heart.”
Similarly, Philippians 4:4 instructs us, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!” Jesus also teaches the principle of generous giving in Luke 6:38, “Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, and running over. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return.”
Scripture clearly affirms giving as a Christian principle. However, the giving described by Christ is not ritualized, compulsory, or driven by social expectation. In contrast, Christmas gift-giving is often obligatory, pressured by custom rather than motivated by cheerful generosity.
The New Testament teaches that God loves a cheerful giver, one who gives willingly, joyfully, and without compulsion. Gifts can be given to family, friends, and loved ones at any time of the year. They do not require a designated season or cultural expectation. True generosity flows from the heart and is never meant to be burdensome.
Father Christmas (Santa Claus)
The final aspect of the Christmas season that must be addressed is the figure commonly known as Father Christmas or Santa Claus. From a Christian perspective, this element represents one of the most troubling developments associated with Christmas observance. Historically, the mention of Christmas immediately directed the minds of people toward the person and work of Jesus Christ. In contemporary culture, however, Santa Claus has largely supplanted Christ as the central figure of the season. This cultural shift represents a significant distortion of the original meaning of Christmas, as the celebration of Christ’s incarnation has been overshadowed by a fictional character.
Santa Claus is also known by the names St. Nick or St. Nicholas. It is noteworthy that in the United Kingdom the devil has sometimes been referred to as “Old Nick,” and in German folklore the name Nikolaus has at times been associated with a dark or punitive figure. While such linguistic connections do not, by themselves, prove theological intent, they do warrant careful consideration.
According to tradition, St. Nicholas was a bishop who lived in Myra, in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), during the fourth century. He is said to have been known for generosity toward the poor and kindness toward children. One commonly repeated legend recounts the story of a poor man with three daughters who lacked the financial means to provide dowries, thereby preventing their marriages. In an act of secret charity, Nicholas is said to have dropped gold through the family’s chimney on multiple occasions, enabling the daughters to marry. Eventually, Nicholas’s identity as the benefactor was discovered, and he became associated with anonymous gift-giving.
However, it is important to note that the existence and actions of St. Nicholas are not supported by reliable contemporary historical documentation. The accounts of his life are largely based on tradition and legend rather than verifiable historical evidence. Because of this uncertainty, and the lack of substantiated historical records, Pope Paul VI ordered the removal of the feast of St. Nicholas from the official Roman Catholic calendar in 1969.
Additionally, various European traditions portray St. Nicholas or related figures in a troubling manner. In certain Nordic myths, Sinterklaas is described as one who rewards obedient children while punishing those who misbehave. In some German folklore and children’s traditions, St. Nicholas appears not as a benevolent bishop but as a dark helper or even a devilish figure tasked with punishing disobedient children. Such portrayals further blur the line between Christian charity and fear-based moralism.
Another name historically associated with Santa Claus is Kris Kringle, derived from the German Christkindl, meaning “little Christ child.” Ironically, this term appears to represent a counterfeit substitute for the true Christ, redirecting attention from the incarnate Son of God to a mythical gift-giver. Scripture repeatedly warns against counterfeits that draw devotion away from Christ. The apostle Paul cautions believers that “Satan disguises himself as an angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14).
When examined closely, the modern depiction of Santa Claus mirrors attributes that belong exclusively to Christ, thereby creating a functional imitation:
- Omniscience: Christ alone is all-knowing (John 2:24–25). Yet Santa is portrayed as knowing the thoughts and actions of every child.
- Omnipresence: Christ is eternally present with His people (Matthew 28:20). Santa is depicted as being everywhere at once, observing who is “naughty or nice.”
- Divine Giver: Scripture teaches that Christ descended from heaven and gave gifts to men: “But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift… When He ascended on high, He led captive a host of captives, and He gave gifts to men” (Ephesians 4:7–8). Santa, by contrast, is mythologized as a global giver of gifts in a single night.
- Appearance: Christ is described as having white hair in His glorified state: “His head and His hair were white like white wool, like snow” (Revelation 1:14). Santa is consistently portrayed as an elderly man with white hair and beard. Additionally, Santa is typically clothed in red, which may evoke Christ’s sacrificial imagery: “He is clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God” (Revelation 19:13).
While these parallels do not prove intentional deception in every cultural expression, they do demonstrate how easily the focus of Christmas can be redirected from Christ to a substitute figure.
In conclusion, these observations highlight the historical, cultural, and theological concerns surrounding certain Christmas customs and traditions. Scripture exhorts believers to exercise discernment in all things (1 Thessalonians 5:21). Ultimately, participation in Christmas traditions is a matter of personal conviction before God. As the apostle Paul writes, “Each person must be fully convinced in his own mind” (Romans 14:5). The central issue remains whether Christ alone is honored and exalted in our celebration.
Closing Remarks: A Conscientious Christian Perspective on Christmas
What follows is my personal and conscientious view of Christmas. I object, on grounds of conscience, to the many cuttings and trimmings commonly associated with the Christmas season. In my view, Christians should have no involvement with the secular and worldly elements that dominate Christmas today. However, gathering with family and friends to sing praise and to reflect upon and celebrate the birth of Christ is a good, proper, and acceptable expression of worship.
Personally, I do not celebrate the worldly aspects of Christmas. Yet I do celebrate the birth of Christ with my local assembly. At first glance, this may appear contradictory, but it is not. As has been demonstrated elsewhere, Christmas itself has no biblical connection to the birth of Christ. My objection is not to honouring Christ, but to the name and event called “Christmas.” Christmas and the celebration of Christ’s birth are not the same. One has roots in pagan Rome and ancient Babylon; the other is a God-honouring remembrance centred entirely on Christ.
There are many aspects and practices during the Christmas season that I do not wish to be part of, and avoid. There are elements to the season that are secondary issues, and I tend to put aside my personal views for the greater good of service to others, especially in my local fellowship of believers. I am not really a “fan” of Christmas and I strongly dislike parts of the season, however, it is not a hill to die on, and putting aside personal preferences in light of service to others is a good thing.
It is not pagan, sinful, or wrong to celebrate the birth of Christ. On the contrary, there is nothing more fitting than exalting the name above every name—the name of Jesus Christ, the Lord of lords and King of kings (Philippians 2:9–11; Revelation 19:16).
A Christ-Centered View
So how should Christians view this time of year? It should be Christ-centered and Christ-exalting. It is an opportunity to proclaim the wondrous truth of the Savior’s birth.
“Today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
(Luke 2:11)
This season must not be commercial-centered, stripping Christ of His glory. It should not revolve around Santa Claus, Christmas trees, drinking, partying, or overindulgence. Christians are called to seriousness and separation from the world, especially at this time of year.
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
(Romans 12:2)
When believers treat this season differently from the secular world, it becomes a powerful witness to the truth.
A Historical Reflection
It is well known that during the English Republican Commonwealth, Oliver Cromwell banned Christmas altogether. Celebration of Christmas was illegal, partly because it was viewed as a Roman Catholic holy day. In that respect, Cromwell was correct—Christmas is not a biblical holy day. However, his methods were excessive. Armed guards were sent through London to confiscate food prepared for Christmas celebrations. Banning Christmas is one thing; forcibly seizing people’s food is another. While I agree with some of Cromwell’s concerns, his unorthodox actions leave a blemish on his historical legacy. Like Cromwell, I am not a strong supporter of many of the traditions of Christmas, though I reject his heavy-handed approach.
The Act of Parliament in 1645 made clear that Christmas was not to be celebrated but spent in sober and respectful contemplation. This reflects how I personally spend December 25th. Each year, I use the day to reflect on the year that is ending, to examine my walk before God, and to consider how I may grow in faithfulness in the year ahead. The day is typically spent in prayer and in the study of God’s Word.
An important Bible verse to keep in mind when addressing this topic is 2 Timothy 4:3-4, “For the time shall be when they will not bear sound teaching; but according to their own lusts will heap up to themselves teachers, having an itching ear; and they will turn away their ear from the truth, and will have turned aside to fables.”
Biblical worship is responding to God’s commands in Holy Scripture. A lot of modern-day worship is man deciding what God ought to receive as worship. May we never be those who make up our own form or style of worship and believe that is true worship. God has told us how to worship Him in Scripture. The Bible alone is sufficient enough material for our worship. Some examples of false worship at this time of year are believing that Christmas is a holy day and God is more inclined to answer prayer. Holding a nativity service where the service leader blesses an image of the Christ child, is also a false form of worship.
God has commanded public worship should be with distinct elements that are found in Scripture. God forbids any and all other attempts of worship. If we keep to what the Scriptures teach, we cannot go far wrong. If we obey the clear commands God has revealed about worship in Scripture, then we are honouring Him according to His Word alone.
The normative principle of worship leaves it to man and his heart to decide how to worship. This view of worship leaves it open to all kinds of styles and forms. The normative principle of worship allows any element of worship that Scripture does not expressly forbid. Churches that follow the principles of normative worship are declining in members and in truth, some are now apostate. Now, of course we do not measure the success of the church by how many people attend the service. However, it is interesting to note that many churches that hold strongly to a Bible based principle of worship are the most active and growing ones.
God honours those that are faithful to His truth. God blesses churches that stand up for the truth as it is shown in Scripture. We don’t need all the excess baggage that comes with Christmas to celebrate and worship the Son of God. Christ’s birth was not a big event with partying and everyone enjoying themselves with food and drink. The birth of Christ as told in Scripture was a very peaceful, sombre, humble, and quiet occasion.
There is nothing boring or miserable about the event of Christ’s birth in the Bible. The view of the Gospel writers is that the time was very happy and joyous. Don’t believe the lie that you are boring or no fun if you want to reflect at this time of year in a quiet and peaceful manner. You do not have to join in all the so-called merrymaking of Christmas. The birth of the Saviour is a very serious event and ought to be treated as such. Whether you celebrate Christmas or not is a personal matter. I hope that this booklet has helped you to learn more about the season and some of the roots of the customs and traditions associated with Christmas.
Published: 2018
Last Modified: December 2025
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