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Results from: Answered Bible Questions, Answers, Unanswered Bible Questions, Notes Ordered by Verse | ||||||
Results | Verse | Author | ID# | |||
1 | Christmas-Is It Christian? | NT general Archive 1 | Aspiring Overseer | 106705 | ||
Hi Tess, Here are some notes from the other day you might find helpful: Christmas is a holiday created by man to celebrate the birth of Christ or, from a secular perspective, to enjoy the presence of family and friends. You ask if it is biblical, but I believe you already have your answer. God commands us throughout scripture not to add or take away from His word. Questions to consider: Would a holiday created by mankind, regardless of intent, be desired by God? Does God command Christians to honor Christ's birth? To what extent can a Christian participate (and promote) man-made practices to honor Christ, which are not directed by God? Some other food for thought: Why do many churches display nativity scenes? The scripture in Matthew which refers to the magi does not list a number nor does it allow for them to have visited Him in the manger. If both of these are distortions to fit the worldly religious version of Christmas, why would we expect anything different in the handling of scripture concerning salvation? P.S. What does Paul mean when he rebukes the Corinthians for naming themselves in 1CO1:10-13? How do you think this applies to JW's? AO |
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2 | Christmas-Is It Christian? | NT general Archive 1 | Just Read Mark | 106738 | ||
Most Christians believe that God continues to communicate with believers. We are to test our listening against the Scriptures. The celebration of Christmas is a fruitful way to honour the birth of our Savior. It draws people together as a group to honour God, as opposed to our individual devotional patterns which may lead us to consider the Incarnation at various points in time. Focusing on Christ corporately is so important. The date of December 25th is not in the Bible, but it is not arbitrary. It is just past the shortest day in the year. I am not saying it is a pagan festival --- I am saying that the date reiterates Isaiah's prophesy "The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light." As for the magi, we know that the Bible doesn't say how many there were. Perhaps a dozen started, and only 4 had the conviction to finish? It is speculation. But, on the other hand, look at the symbolism of the 3 -- from different continents (often portrayed as Europe, Asia, and Africa) thus symbolizing the whole world.... or 3 different ages (young, mature, elderly.) These are rich ideas, though not literally Biblical, they are consistent with the message of the Gospel. Don't many Christian authors imagine themselves into the Biblical drama to edifying results? Of course, we don't treat these cultural productions as authoritative. But prayerful production is an important way to serve our Lord. Every time I see a nativity scene, I celebrate. Especially on private lawns. People are making a public declaration of their faith. How much easier to put up a banal snowman or Santa! But no, some people put their faith on display to their neighbours. Let us be flamboyently celebratory this Christmas, stealing the attention from the capitalist frenzy. Let us find ways, united in faith, to celebrate the incarnation on the streets, not just in private devotion. Sing carols door to door that explicitly proclaim who Christ is. I plan to lean into it, for Christ is here and people need to know it. |
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3 | Christmas-Is It Christian? | NT general Archive 1 | stjones | 106866 | ||
Well said, JRM. Caroling tonight! | ||||||