Every year, Christians face questions about whether Christmas and Easter should be celebrated. Some argue that Christmas is rooted in pagan traditions because of its December 25 date, while others question Easter because of its name, symbols, and historical associations.
These questions deserve thoughtful consideration. But I believe we need to look beyond popular arguments and examine both the biblical and historical evidence before deciding what belongs in the life of a follower of Jesus Christ.
Christmas: Celebrating the Arrival of the Lamb of God
God loves celebrations. Throughout Scripture, He established appointed feasts for His people, and Jesus Himself participated in celebrations such as Passover and the Feast of Tabernacles.
The birth of Jesus Christ is certainly something worth celebrating. The arrival of the Lamb of God, who came to take away the sin of the world, changed the destiny of mankind.
There are historical records of Christians recognizing December 25 as the celebration of Christ’s birth long before the fourth-century decisions often blamed for establishing the date. Early Christian writers, including Sextus Julius Africanus, Tertullian, and Augustine, are part of this historical discussion.
While we cannot establish with absolute certainty that December 25 was the actual date of Jesus’ birth, I believe there is sufficient historical reason not to dismiss the celebration simply because of claims about pagan origins.
The problem isn’t celebrating Christmas. The problem is allowing commercialism and worldly traditions to overshadow the reason we celebrate.
Let’s gather our families, sing the carols that proclaim His birth, and remember the greatest gift God ever gave us: His Son.
Resurrection Sunday: Celebrating Christ’s Victory Over Death
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the foundation of our hope. His death paid the price for our sins, but His resurrection declared His victory over death and the powers of darkness.
I believe Christians should make Resurrection Sunday a major celebration in their homes and congregations.
I also believe we need to be intentional about what we celebrate. Rather than allowing familiar symbols and cultural traditions to define the occasion, we should put the emphasis where it belongs: on the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
As Acts 4:12 declares, salvation is found in no other name than Jesus Christ.
This is the message we should proclaim with joy!
Put Jesus Back at the Center
We don’t need to abandon celebrations that honor Christ simply because the world has commercialized them. We need to reclaim their meaning.
Christmas should point us to the birth of our Savior. Resurrection Sunday should proclaim His victory over death and the promise of eternal life.
Let’s celebrate with understanding, conviction, and great joy. Above all, let’s make sure that Jesus Christ, not culture or commercialism, remains at the center of everything we celebrate.