What Is Christmas? Is It Found In The Bible?

QUESTION: What is Christmas? Was Jesus really born on December 25? Is it right for Christians to celebrate Christmas?

Meaning of Christmas:

The word Christmas comes from two words: Christ and Mass, forming Christ-Mass — which refers to a religious service (Mass) in honor of the birth of Jesus Christ. In short, it is a celebration of the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Around the world, billions of Christians commemorate December 25th as the day Jesus was born. But was Jesus really born on that date? Let’s explore the matter from a biblical standpoint.

Does the Bible Mention December 25 as Jesus’ Birth Date?

No. The Bible does not provide a specific date or even the month of Jesus’ birth. Over the centuries, based on historical and biblical clues, various groups have suggested different months — including April, August, September, October, and December. December 25 eventually became the most widely accepted date, but it is not biblically confirmed.

Biblical Clues Suggesting Jesus Was Not Born in December:

One key clue is found in the story of Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist.

In Luke 1:5-9, Zechariah is described as a priest from the division of Abijah who was serving in the temple when the angel Gabriel appeared to him. To determine the time of this event, we must understand the priestly divisions mentioned in 1 Chronicles 24:7-18.

Abijah’s division was the eighth of the 24 priestly orders. Each division served one week at a time, starting from the first month of the Jewish calendar (which begins around early April in our calendar). The eighth division would fall around the middle of the third month, which corresponds to mid-June.

Shortly after his temple service, Zechariah’s wife Elizabeth became pregnant with John the Baptist. Six months later, the angel Gabriel visited Mary to announce that she would give birth to Jesus (Luke 1:26). This places Jesus’ conception around late December to early January.

Adding nine months for a full pregnancy would place Jesus’ birth around September or early October — during the time of the Feast of Tabernacles, a major Jewish celebration. This timing aligns well with biblical and historical context, making it highly likely that Jesus was not born in December.

Where Did the December 25 Date Come From?

The choice of December 25 as Jesus’ birth date likely originated from an effort by early Roman Christians to provide an alternative to pagan festivals held during the winter solstice. Specifically, it coincided with the birthday of the Roman sun god Mithras and other sun-related celebrations.

By choosing this date, early Christians aimed to redirect focus from idol worship to honoring the true “Light of the World” — Jesus Christ (John 8:12).

Is It Wrong for Christians to Celebrate Christmas on December 25?

The Bible does not command us to celebrate Jesus’ birth on any specific day — nor does it prohibit such a celebration. The apostle Paul addressed such matters in Romans 14:5-6:

“One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind. Whoever regards one day as special does so to the Lord.”

As long as the celebration is dedicated to the Lord — with thanksgiving, worship, and reverence — it is not wrong. Whether you choose to honor the Lord on December 25 or any other day, it should be done from a pure heart.

However, if the day is used for ungodly behavior — drunkenness, idolatry, immorality, or materialism — then it becomes displeasing to God, no matter the intention.

The Real Question: Have You Received the Gift of Christ?

While it is good to reflect on Jesus’ birth, what matters most is whether Christ has been born in your heart. These are the last days, and all signs point to the soon return of our Lord Jesus.

Have you repented of your sins? Have you been baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins (Acts 2:38)? Have you received the gift of the Holy Spirit?

Now is the time to make things right with God — not just celebrate a date.

Conclusion:

Jesus was most likely not born on December 25, and the word “Christmas” itself is not found in the Bible. However, celebrating the birth of Jesus — with sincerity and reverence — is not sinful. What matters is the focus of your heart and the purpose of your worship.

If December 25 becomes a day for you to glorify God, reflect on the Savior, and spread the message of hope and salvation — then it becomes meaningful. But if it becomes a day of sin, self-indulgence, and worldliness — then it is better not to observe it at all.

The Lord bless you.

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