The debate surrounding Christmas and its alleged pagan origins has persisted for centuries. Sceptics claim that Christmas is merely a Christianised version of pagan festivals like Saturnalia or the winter solstice, while others argue that December 25th was chosen to align with the Roman festival of Sol Invictus (the Unconquered Sun). These arguments have led some to question the authenticity of Christmas as a Christian celebration and whether Christians should even participate in it.
To answer these questions, we must explore the historical, biblical, and theological underpinnings of Christmas. Through a careful analysis, it becomes abundantly clear that Christmas is not a pagan celebration but a profound commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ. This celebration is rooted in the Scriptures, intended to glorify God, and has transformative spiritual significance.
1. The Biblical Foundation of Christmas
While the Bible does not specify an exact date for Jesus’ birth, it provides a wealth of evidence for why the incarnation—the birth of Christ—is worthy of celebration. The Bible highlights the miraculous events surrounding Jesus’ birth, the fulfilment of prophecy, and the heavenly reunion that accompanied it.
The Fulfillment of Prophecy
The birth of Jesus was foretold centuries before it occurred. The prophet Isaiah declared:
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).
The arrival of Jesus Christ marked the fulfilment of this prophecy and others, such as the virgin birth:
“Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call His name Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14).
When we celebrate Christmas, we are not participating in pagan traditions. Instead, we are honouring God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promise to send a Saviour.
The Angelic Proclamation
On the night of Jesus’ birth, an angel appeared to shepherds, announcing:
“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 Saviour, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10–11).
This proclamation was followed by a multitude of angels praising God, saying:
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased” (Luke 2:14).
The angels celebrated the birth of Jesus, recognising its cosmic significance. If heaven itself rejoices at Christ’s birth, it is fitting for us to do the same.
The Visit of the Magi
The Magi, or wise men, travelled from the East to honour Jesus, saying:
“Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star when it rose and have come to worship Him” (Matthew 2:2).
Their journey underscores the significance of Jesus’ birth. They brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, symbolising His kingship, divinity, and eventual sacrifice. This act of worship sets a precedent for believers to honour and celebrate the birth of Christ.
2. The Intention Behind Christmas
The central focus of Christmas is the incarnation of Jesus Christ—God becoming flesh to dwell among us and bring salvation to humanity. This is the greatest event in human history, one that changed the course of the world forever.
Why Celebrate the Incarnation?
The incarnation is the foundation of the Christian faith. Without it, there would be no cross, no resurrection, and no salvation. The Apostle John writes:
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14).
Christmas celebrates this miraculous event—the moment when God entered human history to redeem His creation. It is not about the date or cultural traditions but the theological truth that Jesus Christ is Emmanuel, “God with us.”
Glorifying God Through Worship
Christmas is an opportunity to glorify God for His indescribable gift (2 Corinthians 9:15). It is a time to gather with family and fellow believers to reflect on His love, mercy, and grace. By celebrating Christmas, we fulfil the biblical command to worship and give thanks in all things (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
3. Addressing the Date: Does December 25th Have Pagan Origins?
One of the primary objections to Christmas is the claim that December 25th was chosen to coincide with pagan festivals like Saturnalia or Sol Invictus. However, historical evidence tells a different story.
Early Christian Observances
The choice of December 25th predates the establishment of Sol Invictus as a Roman holiday. Early Christian writers, such as Hippolytus of Rome (170–235 AD), calculated December 25th as the date of Jesus’ birth based on Jewish traditions and biblical chronology.
For example, some early Christians believed that Jesus was conceived on March 25th, the date traditionally associated with the Annunciation. Counting nine months forward, they arrived at December 25th for His birth.
Who Owns December 25th?
Dates themselves are morally neutral. As Psalm 24:1 reminds us:
“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.”
No group, pagan or otherwise, owns a specific day. Christians have every right to reclaim and consecrate December 25th as a day to honour Christ. What matters is the intention behind the celebration. For believers, December 25th is a day to glorify God and remember the gift of His Son.
4. Christianity Redeems Culture, Not Adopts It
Christianity has a long history of transforming cultural practices for God’s glory. For instance, the Apostle Paul used cultural symbols, such as the “unknown god” in Athens, to proclaim the gospel (Acts 17:23). Similarly, even if certain Christmas customs have historical parallels, their meaning has been redefined and sanctified by their Christ-centred focus.
Christmas is distinctively Christian
The elements of Christmas—such as nativity scenes, carols, and Scripture readings—are explicitly focused on Jesus Christ. These practices are not remnants of paganism but acts of worship that glorify God.
5. The Fruits of Christmas: Evidence of Its Christian Roots
Evangelism and Discipleship
Christmas provides a unique opportunity to share the gospel with others. Through church services, Nativity plays, and outreach events, believers can proclaim the message of salvation to a world in need.
Acts of Love and Charity
Christmas inspires generosity and compassion, reflecting the heart of Christ. Scripture commands us to care for others:
“Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will repay him for his deed” (Proverbs 19:17).
Charitable acts during Christmas demonstrate the love of God in practical ways.
Unity and Fellowship
Christmas brings people together, fostering unity and fellowship among believers. Gathering to celebrate Christ’s birth strengthens the church and encourages mutual love and support.
6. Should Christians Celebrate Christmas?
The answer is a resounding yes. Christmas is a time to glorify God, reflect on His goodness, and share His love with others. Far from being pagan, Christmas is a profoundly Christian celebration with biblical, historical, and theological significance.
Biblical Support for Celebration
The Bible calls us to rejoice in the Lord always (Philippians 4:4) and to give thanks in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Celebrating Christmas fulfils these commands by focusing our hearts on the gift of Jesus Christ.
A Witness to the World
Christmas is an opportunity to shine the light of Christ in a dark world. By celebrating with joy, reverence, and love, we bear witness to the truth of the gospel.
Conclusion: Christmas is About Christ
Christmas is not a pagan celebration. It is a sacred time to honour the birth of Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the world. While sceptics may argue otherwise, the evidence overwhelmingly supports the Christian roots and intentions of this holiday.
As believers, let us celebrate Christmas with boldness and joy, proclaiming with the angels:
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased” (Luke 2:14).
The question is not whether December 25th has a contested history—it is whether we will use this day to glorify God and share His love with the world. Let us seize this opportunity to proclaim the good news:
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given” (Isaiah 9:6).
Merry Christmas, and may the celebration of Christ’s birth draw you closer to Him and deepen your faith.