Rethinking Christmas

For many, Christmas is a season of joy, lights, and traditions. Families gather, gifts are exchanged, and cherished memories are formed. During this season, the story of Jesus’ birth is retold year after year. Yet, when we examine Scripture and history closely, there is no biblical command to celebrate Jesus’ birth on December 25—or on any day (Luke 2:1-20). The Bible provides no instructions for observing a birthday; rather, it emphasizes remembering Jesus' life, death, and resurrection through the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:23-26).

While the exact date of Jesus’ birth is unknown, historical and biblical clues suggest it was likely not December 25. Luke mentions shepherds in the fields at night, pointing to a warmer season. Roman censuses—like the one Joseph and Mary traveled for—were typically conducted in milder months, not in winter. Early church records indicate December 25 was established centuries later, likely aligning with cultural festivals. And, Scripture’s focus is on Christ’s life, mission, and saving work—not a calendar date.

That said, the season is not without significance. In a world filled with contradictory ideas about Jesus—some denying Him, others reshaping Him completely—this attention presents a unique opportunity. Even if imperfect, people are talking about Jesus, and every conversation is a door that can lead someone closer to the truth.

We are often tempted to correct, argue, or even silently protest. Rarely does debate alone change hearts, and silence can miss opportunity. Instead, we can allow conversations to serve as bridges. When someone mentions Jesus’ birth, we can gently redirect the focus to who He really is: the Savior (Luke 2:11), the Son of God (Matthew 3:17), the One who offers forgiveness (Luke 24:47), hope (1 Peter 1:3), and life (John 11:25).

The cultural picture of Jesus differs from the biblical one. Movies, songs, and decorations may emphasize a gentle infant in a manger, but rarely convey His mission, teachings, or ultimate sacrifice. Even amid these representations, we can help others see beyond traditions and images to the truth revealed in Scripture. We can point to the Jesus who healed the sick, spoke with authority, loved the marginalized, and willingly gave His life to bring us to God (Mark 2:17, 1 Peter 3:18).

This approach does not require protesting celebration outright, nor joining every custom uncritically. It is an invitation to think differently about honoring Jesus. The essence of our faith is not tied to a date, gift, or decoration—it is tied to Christ Himself (John 15:4-5). Our ultimate celebration is not the pageantry of December 25, but the life-changing reality of following Jesus daily and remembering His death and resurrection through the Lord’s Supper.

This season is an opportunity to be a light in a world darkened by distraction, doubt, and misinformation (Matthew 5:14-16). When people engage with the story of Jesus—even in a simplified or cultural form—we can use it as a starting point, encourage curiosity, invite questions, and model a faith rooted in Scripture. In doing so, we honor the truth without dismissing the ongoing conversations around us.

Ultimately, thinking biblically about Christmas is aligning our perspective with who Jesus is and what He came to accomplish. While we may not know His birthday, we do know His mission: to save, redeem, and draw people to Himself. When the world talks about Jesus—even imperfectly—we must engage. Often, the most effective way to point others to the real Jesus is through gentle guidance, thoughtful conversation, and a life reflecting His love (1 Peter 3:15-16).

So, this season, whether we celebrate or not, do so thoughtfully. Let us honor Christ not by the calendar, but by the truth of His identity and the power of His work in our lives. Let us see conversations around us—not as annoyances to be corrected, but as opportunities to share the gospel. And let us remember that while December 25 may not mark Jesus’ birth, every day is an opportunity to proclaim His presence, love, and life-changing grace (Psalm 96:2, Matthew 28:19-20).