Should Christians Celebrate and Embrace Christmas?

One question that often confuses me is when people ask if I, as a Christian, celebrate Christmas.

Growing up, Christmas was always a beautiful and festive time. We eagerly anticipated new clothes, delicious food, holidays, travel, and adventure. Later, after I gave my life to Christ, I joined a Bible-centered, evangelistic church. This church organizes an open residential retreat throughout the Christmas period, now complemented by virtual meetings for those unable to attend in person. These retreats focus on teaching, prayer, singing, and fellowship centered on the birth of Jesus Christ, His ministry, and how His purpose applies to our lives. Many other churches approach Christmas similarly in various ways, focusing on Christ in their celebrations.

If celebrating Christmas is judged by decorating homes, some Christians might say they don’t celebrate. But what does celebrating Christmas truly mean? It seems to mean different things to different people, but there are some central truths about Christmas:

1. Christmas is about Christ.
It commemorates Christ being given for our salvation and deliverance. It’s truly a time of joy for the world because hope was restored when Christ came. There can be no CHRISTmas without CHRIST.

Isaiah 9:6: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” This prophecy, written centuries before Jesus’ birth, points to Him as our Lord and Savior.

2. Christmas is not associated with evil or evil practices.

1 Thessalonians 5:22 (KJV): “Abstain from all appearance of evil.”

3. Churches emphasize Christ.
Many churches hold edifying and inspiring services, highlighting the centrality of Christ.

John 12:32: “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.”

4. It brings families together.
Amid life’s busyness, the Christmas season offers a time for family connection and reconnection.

5. It fills the air with inspiring music.
Uplifting melodies resonate everywhere during this season.

6. It encourages giving and generosity.
People practice generosity, not just for others but also in celebrating the fruits of their labor.

7. It spreads the message of Christ.
Radio, social media, and TV channels emphasize that Christ is the reason for the season.

8. It is a season of beauty and calm.
The season’s weather and decorations create a serene and beautiful atmosphere.

9. The world pauses on December 25th.
Regardless of debates about the exact date, the day acknowledges Christ’s birth and His fulfillment as the Messiah.

10. It reminds us of God’s love.
Christmas serves as a call to unity, peace, and goodwill, reflecting God’s love for humanity.

Long ago, when humanity fell from grace, the world was steeped in paganism. But Jesus stepped into the darkness, and, as the Bible says, the darkness could not overcome Him. Paganism gave way to the light of salvation through Christ. Thus, Christmas is no longer about its origins but about the Kingdom of Christ prevailing.

The path of Christ transcends Israelite traditions and celebrations. Jesus is for the whole world, not a single nation or their customs. The Holy Spirit, promised by Jesus, now operates through the church. We no longer live by laws but by grace through Christ.

So, let us never lose sight of this truth: Christmas is about Christ.

Imagine a world without comfort, without sunshine or hope—a world filled only with human opinions and ideas, but no real anchor to lean on. A world without Christ, empty of God and devoid of His mercy. Pause for a moment and reflect on what that would be like.

Though December 25th may not mark the exact birthday of Christ, it remains a day when the world stands still to acknowledge and honor the Savior. Even if “Merry Christmas” were replaced by “Happy Holidays,” the indelible legacy of Christ would remain unshaken. From His birth, opposition arose—a powerful king waged war against a child because that Baby was no ordinary child but the Savior of the world.

Countless names have risen and fallen throughout history, but not His. Jesus Christ remains unmatched in bringing redemption, hope, comfort, deliverance, true freedom, and everlasting joy. Thousands of songs have been written about Him and His power to save, including Andre Crouch’s “Through It All”:
“Through it all, I’ve learned to trust in Jesus, I’ve learned to trust in God, Through it all, Through it all, I’ve learned to depend upon His Word.” Even if the world does not come to church to learn about Jesus, history will continue to enlighten generations to come.

How grateful we are for God’s immense love, demonstrated when He gave “his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). Despite the darkness that blankets the earth, we praise and thank God for the light of Christ, which continues to shine and illuminate the path of life. Truly, it is a joy to the world.

This is why we will continue to uphold the banner of Christ during Christmas.