First and foremost, we must understand that the Bible does not even mention the word Christmas in it. Secondly, although the Bible talks in great detail of the birth of Christ, God never commanded the Christian to celebrate His birth on an annual basis. Thirdly, there is no apostolic or approved example of anyone ever celebrating Christ's birth or Christmas. The only thing the Christian is called upon to remember on a specific day is the death of Christ by way of the Lord's Supper (1 Corinthians 11:26) on the first day of the week (Acts 20:7). Therefore, the holiday known as Christmas was not inspired by God, but rather was originated by way of Catholicism.

In 336AD noted on an early Roman calendar, December 25th was first mentioned as the birth date of Jesus. We must understand that this took place some 300 years after the birth of Christ. If Christmas is a day Christians are commanded to celebrate the birth of Christ, then the Christians of the 1st to the 3rd century have all sinned in this regard because for 336 years, this command was never carried out. Furthermore, this day of December 25th is not the actual birthday of the Lord Jesus Christ. There is no disagreement throughout the theological world in regards to this.

Why December 25th? During the 4th century, the Romans held festivals (year-end celebrations) to honor Mithras, the sun god and Saturn, the harvest god (both were pagan gods. The Romans practiced polytheism and idolatry). Therefore, it is assumed that December 25th to celebrate the birth of Christ was influenced by these festivals.

By the end of the 4th century, Catholicism became the accepted and official religion of the Roman Empire. By time the 12th century rolled around, Christmas had become the most important religious (Catholic) festival in Europe. The popularity of Christmas grew until the Protestant Reformation came into power in the 16th century, originated by Martin Luther. During the rise of Protestantism, many denominationalists began to consider Christmas a pagan celebration because it included unscriptural customs. Today, Christmas is considered by many religions as a holyday.

Although the Christmas holiday is unscriptural in origin, it has provided an additional day of rest and relaxation for individuals who are employed. It has increased profits and revenues for corporations specializing in gifts. It has even brought out the best behavior of many in society because this day has been betrayed as a day to show goodwill towards all men.

Learn more about this author, Antoine N. Holloway.
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