Christmas is a major Christian holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. It is marked on December 25th each year. Many questions arise around the origins, traditions, and theological significance of Christmas. Here we will explore some common questions people have about this beloved holiday.
When was Jesus actually born?
The Bible does not specify the exact date of Jesus’ birth. December 25th was likely chosen due to its proximity to the winter solstice, as a way for early Christians to co-opt popular pagan festivals. Some scholars believe Jesus was actually born in the spring, based on details like shepherds being in the fields (Luke 2:8). But the precise date is not known.
Is Christmas a pagan holiday?
Early Christians did deliberately choose December 25th to coincide with pagan festivals like Saturnalia and Natalis Solis Invicti, which celebrated the winter solstice and sun gods. This made it easier to convert pagans. But today, Christmas is almost universally recognized as a Christian holiday celebrating Jesus’ birth. Its origins and some customs do have pagan elements, but its modern form and intent is Christian.
What is the meaning of Christmas?
At its core, Christmas marks and celebrates the incarnation – God becoming flesh and dwelling among humanity as Jesus Christ (John 1:14). It represents the entrance of the Savior into the world to accomplish God’s plan of salvation (1 John 4:14). The humble circumstances of Christ’s birth also reflect God’s love and identification with lowly humanity.
Should Christians celebrate Christmas?
This is debated among Christians. Since the Bible does not command celebrating Christ’s birth, some see it as an unbiblical tradition. But Christmas can be a sincere celebration of Christ and Scripture, as long as it does not descend into crass commercialism. Other Christians view participation as a matter of conscience and Christian freedom.
Is Christmas just for kids?
No, Christmas is for everyone, young and old. While children may be especially excited by the presents, trees, and Santa traditions, the true meaning of Christmas – celebrating Jesus’ birth – remains central for all ages. Adults focus more on the spiritual significance, but the joy and anticipation of the season can light up every heart.
Should Christians say “Merry Christmas” vs “Happy Holidays”?
Some Christians strongly prefer “Merry Christmas,” wanting to keep Christ in Christmas and avoid secularization. But others happily say “Happy Holidays” to be inclusive of non-Christians in the season. Either can be appropriate. Using your greeting as a chance to share about Christ’s birth can be a gentle witness.
Is Santa Claus real?
Santa Claus is based on the historical Christian figure of St. Nicholas. But in his modern mythical form, flying reindeer and all, Santa is not literally real. Parents often perpetuate the Santa legend when children are young, but emphasize the story behind Christmas as kids grow older. Keeping Santa Christ-focused is important.
Is Christmas mostly just about consumerism now?
Unfortunately, much of the modern Christmas season has become dominated by shopping, gifts, and materialism. But Christians can still celebrate Christmas in Christ-honoring ways, through worship, generosity, family time, and outreach. Keeping commercialism from hijacking the holiday requires intentionality.
Should Christians decorate Christmas trees?
The Christmas tree has origins in pagan winter solstice traditions, but was also used by German Lutherans as early as the 16th century. Many Christians today have trees, especially when focused on adoration of Christ. But some abstain to avoid any appearance of mixing Christian and pagan elements.
What does the Christmas star represent?
The star of Bethlehem that guided the Magi to Jesus was likely a supernatural sign from God rather than an actual astronomical star (Matthew 2:1-12). This special star symbolizes the light of Christ coming into the world, guiding those with seeking hearts to their Savior.
Is it important to attend church on Christmas?
Christmas church services provide a chance to corporately reflect on the birth of Christ through worship, carols, candles, and proclamation of the Christmas story. While not required, attending a service centers the holiday on Christ. Many churches hold special Christmas Eve or morning services.
Should gifts be exchanged on Christmas?
Gift-giving can remind us of God’s greatest gift to humanity, Jesus Christ, as well as being a practical expression of love. But Christmas gifts should not become materialistic or compulsory. Homemade, charitable, and thoughtful gifts demonstrate the heart behind the tradition.
Is Christmas more meaningful for Christians or non-Christians?
Christmas holds deeper spiritual meaning for Christians as they celebrate their Savior’s birth. But the holiday’s themes of family, giving, and hope can also be appreciated by non-Christians. Evangelistic Christmas events aim to share the full meaning with non-believers.
Should we help the needy at Christmas?
Yes, absolutely. Jesus identified with the poor and marginalized, and helping them at Christmas is a practical way to honor Christ (Matthew 25:31-46). Many Christians give generously, volunteer, or donate to charity around the holidays.
Were there really three kings or wise men?
The Bible does not specify how many Magi visited Jesus. Tradition developed about three kings based on the three gifts mentioned (Matthew 2:11). But Scripture simply refers to an unspecified number of “wise men from the east.”
What is the Christmas star?
The star of Bethlehem that the Magi followed to find Jesus (Matthew 2:1-12) was likely a miraculous sign from God, unique to that moment, rather than any known astronomical event. Various theories have tried to connect the star scientifically, but its exact nature remains a mystery.
Why is Christmas abbreviated as Xmas?
Both Christmas and Xmas have been used interchangeably for centuries. The “X” in Xmas is the Greek letter Chi, the first letter in Christ’s name. X has long been an acceptable shorthand for “Christ” in Christian writings. So Xmas does not remove Christ from Christmas.
What are good ways for families to celebrate Christmas?
Some meaningful Christmas family traditions include: attending church, reading the Christmas story (Luke 2:1-20), lighting advent candles, baking treats, watching Christmas movies, singing carols, giving to charity, having grandparents share memories, or reading the account of Christ’s birth together.
Is there a war on Christmas and Christmas traditions?
Some Christians perceive increasing pressure to avoid mentioning Christmas or Christ, and to instead refer to generic “holiday” observances and activities. But most Christmas traditions remain quite common in public life. Christians can graciously yet firmly keep Christ in Christmas.
Why do we give each other presents for Christmas?
Gift-giving reflects God’s greatest gift to us – the gift of his Son Jesus Christ (John 3:16). It also reminds us to graciously give good gifts to others just as God gives to us (James 1:17). Exchanging gifts can be an expression of love, thankfulness, generosity, and remembrance of Christ’s birth.
What are the origins of Christmas traditions?
Many Christmas traditions have pagan origins but were adapted and Christianized over time, like the date of December 25, the Christmas tree, and the yule log. Other traditions trace back to biblical roots, like worshiping Christ, giving gifts, charity, candles, bells, holly, greenery, and even feasting and celebration.
What is the real meaning of Christmas?
The fundamental meaning of Christmas is celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, the Savior and Messiah, who came to provide spiritual redemption and eternal life for all who believe (John 3:16-17; Luke 2:11). Other important meanings include the light, hope, and joy Christ brings in defeating sin and death.
Why do we celebrate Christmas on December 25th?
December 25th was likely chosen by early church leaders to coincide with pagan Roman winter solstice festivals, making it easier to convert pagans to Christianity. But the precise date of Jesus’ birth is unknown. Other theories hold it was calculated from the presumed date of his death and conception.
What is the Christmas season?
The Christmas season is traditionally the time period starting on Christmas Eve and lasting through Epiphany on January 6. It encompasses several important holidays and feasts like Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. The season is marked by Christmas decor, traditions, events, and celebrations.
What gifts did Jesus receive from the wise men?
The Magi brought gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the child Jesus according to Matthew 2:11. In the ancient world, these expensive gifts symbolized Christ’s royal standing (gold), divine nature (frankincense), and sacrificial death (myrrh). They mirror gifts fit for worshipping a king.
Should Christmas be more about Jesus or family?
Ideally, Christmas should be about both Jesus and family. Keeping Christ at the center reminds us of His birth’s true meaning. But warm family traditions remind us of the love, connection, and joy we find in Christ. Moderation and balance between spiritual significance and family bonding is best.
What are some overlooked biblical elements of the Christmas story?
Sometimes overlooked details include the prophecies about Bethlehem and Jesus’ birth (Micah 5:2), the humble manger Jesus was laid in (Luke 2:7), the shepherds visiting as the first witnesses (Luke 2:15-20), Jesus being dedicated at the Temple (Luke 2:22-24), and then the Holy Family fleeing to Egypt (Matthew 2:13-15).
Should parents lie to kids about Santa Claus?
Most parents see great magic and joy in the Santa tradition for little children, so play along at first. But the Santa myth should not be presented as a serious lifelong lie. Parents should aim to gradually shift the focus to the wonder of Christ as kids mature and ask questions.
What are the actual origins of Santa Claus?
Santa evolved from the historical Christian figure of St. Nicholas, a 4th century bishop in modern day Turkey known for generosity and gift-giving. Through legend and myth, his story merged with folktales around figures like Father Christmas and Sinterklaas to create the Santa we know today.
Why do we decorate trees for Christmas?
Bringing greenery indoors in winter was an ancient pagan solstice tradition. But Christmas trees became associated with Christmas in Germany as early as the 16th century, representing the tree of life and Christ. Decorating the tree with lights and ornaments became a natural way to celebrate the light of Jesus.
What are the different names for Santa Claus?
Santa goes by many names, including: Saint Nicholas, Father Christmas, Kris Kringle, Saint Nick, and even Pelznickel in parts of Germany. These various names come from the mingled folklore traditions and legends that fused together from multiple cultures to create Santa as we know him.
Should Christians avoid Santa because he distracts from Jesus?
For young children, the magical Santa myth brings much joy, awe, and imagination to the season. But parents must take care to keep Santa secondary to Jesus. Once kids begin asking skeptical questions, the focus should shift to Christ’s true meaning for Christmas.
Does Christmas have pagan roots?
Many Christmas traditions like the timing of December 25th, Christmas trees, Yule logs, and holly do have origins in pagan winter solstice festivals. But Christianity did not simply adopt pagan rituals. Instead it transformed their meaning by infusing them with distinctly Christian spirit, purpose and symbolism.
What are the biblical prophecies about Jesus’ birth?
Some key Old Testament prophecies about the coming Messiah and his birth include: The virgin birth prophecy (Isaiah 7:14), Bethlehem as the birthplace (Micah 5:2), the Davidic lineage (Jeremiah 23:5), birth during the time of Rome (Daniel 2:44), and the the flight to Egypt (Hosea 11:1).
When should you take down Christmas decorations?
Christmas decorations traditionally stay up the Twelve Days of Christmas, which are the days between Christmas and Epiphany (January 6). But many people take decorations down right after Christmas or New Year’s. Whenever you take them down, savoring the season rather than rushing can keep Christmas meaningful.
What are some good Christmas gifts with Christian meaning?
Meaningful Christmas gift ideas with Christian significance include: Bibles or devotionals, Christian books/movies, ornaments with Scripture verses, stocking stuffers with Gospel themes, Christian jewelry or artwork, sponsored gifts honoring missions or charities, personalized gifts made just for them.
Do all Christians celebrate Christmas?
No. While the vast majority of Christians mark the holiday, some groups like Seventh-Day Adventists and Jehovah’s Witnesses do not. They argue the New Testament neither commands it nor provides the date. But even among those who do celebrate, traditions vary widely across denominations and cultures.
What are the key people in the Christmas story?
The key individuals in Scripture’s account of Christ’s birth are Mary and Joseph (Jesus’ earthly parents), the baby Jesus himself, the angel Gabriel who announced Jesus’ conception and birth, John the Baptist who prepared the way, shepherds who received the angelic proclamation, and wise men from the East who came to worship Jesus.
How are Christmas and Advent connected?
Advent is the four-week liturgical period leading up to Christmas. Observed with practices like lighting Advent wreaths and calendars, it is a time of spiritual preparation for celebrating Jesus’ birth. The anticipatory prayer and fasting of Advent gives way to Christmas festivities and feasting on December 25.
What are the themes of the biblical Christmas story?
Major themes in the biblical narratives about Jesus’ birth include: God becoming human for our salvation, God’s miraculous intervention, prophecy fulfillment, the Messiah’s humility and identification with lowly humanity, light coming into a dark world, God’s glory made manifest, and receptivity to divine revelation.
Should politics be kept out of Christmas?
The religious meaning of Christmas should take priority over partisan political squabbles. But the public nature of the holiday means political issues around freedom of religious speech and expression, proper etiquette, and complex church/state concerns will persist. A charitable, balanced perspective is best.