20/12/2025
Is Christmas a pagan holiday? Here are some things to keep in mind:
1. The birth of Jesus is a very special event.
Jesus’ birth was a virgin birth, announced by angels, attended by shepherds and acknowledged by wise men. It fulfilled OT testament prophecies.
Jesus came to live among us. It brought salvation.
The exact birthdate of Jesus is unknown. Many believe it was in spring as shepherds watched their flocks at night (Luke 2:8), a task typically done during warmer months.
2. The 4th century saw increased celebration of Christ’s birth, fueled by debates about His nature and the importance of His incarnation.
Early Christians often celebrated deaths rather than birthdays. They commemorated Christ's death and honored martyrs on their death days.
Before the 4th century, Eastern churches celebrated Epiphany, marking Christ's baptism, birth, and the Magi's visit.
3. Christmas is not a pagan holiday.
Roman culture celebrated Saturnalia (god Saturn) and later Sol Invictus ("Unconquered Sun"). While some Christmas traditions have pagan roots, their modern use doesn't signify a return to paganism.
For instance, Sunday, derived from the Roman "Sun's day.” Similarly, the name "Wednesday" comes from the Norse god Woden, but its modern usage has no religious significance.
Celebrating Christmas doesn't make one pagan.
4. Celebrating Christmas is not prohibited.
While the world often commercializes Christmas, for the church, it's a sacred time to exalt Jesus Christ. The modern world has unfortunately hijacked this holy holiday.
“What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is preached; and in this I rejoice, yes, and will rejoice.” Phil 1:18
5. Christmas trees are not demonic!
While evergreen branches have pagan associations, the Christmas tree tradition began with German Protestants in the 16th century.
Jeremiah 10:1-16 forbids cutting down and decorating trees as people do during Christmas. Isaiah 44 notes the futility of cutting down a tree and turning it into idol worship. Both examples have nothing to do with Christmas trees.
Both happened before Christ’s birth.
6. Santa’s character is believed to come from Bishop Nicholas of Myra.
The belief in Santa entering through the chimney stems from an Old Norse legend about the goddess Hertha, who appeared in fireplaces to bring luck.
The modern image of Santa Claus was popularized by 19th-century Coca-Cola marketing and the illustrations of Thomas Nast.
According to tradition, the character of Santa Claus is inspired by Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century Christian bishop known for his generosity.
7. Jesus is the reason for this season.
“And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name, JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21
“For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11
-Vlad Savchuk
