Is Christmas mentioned in the Bible?

Firstly, there’s no direct biblical commandment to celebrate the birth of Jesus on the 25th of December. There is also nothing in the Bible that would indicate that Jesus was born on the 25th of December. In fact, much of the New Testament narratives would suggest that His birth did not even occur during that time of year. 

Although Christmas is not included in the Bible, the event itself is mentioned – Christmas is God incarnate in the flesh.

John 1:14 (ESV)

And the word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

“What we celebrate at Christmas is not so much the birth of a baby, but the incarnation of God Himself.” ~ R.C. Sproul

Was the birth of Christ ever celebrated in the Bible?

Yes, it was. We see the birth of Jesus celebrated in Scripture as follows;

– By John the Baptist while he was in his mother’s womb (Lk 1:44).

– By the Angels and the Shepherds who praised God (Lk 2:9-20) for the gift of Jesus.

– By the wise men who came to worship Jesus and presented Him with gifts (Matt. 2:10-11).

Doesn’t the 25th of December have its roots in pagan worship?

During the time of the Roman Empire, there was a holiday on the 25th of December, which was linked to pagan religion.

However, the Christians at that time were reluctant to participate in the rituals. Therefore, they decided to have their own celebration of something that was of more importance to them – the incarnation of God to Son. This turned into a joyful time as the people celebrated and worshiped their Savior and King. 

What about the Christmas Tree used as a decoration?

Regarding the Christmas tree, it is true that it may have been used in pagan practices. However, there is nothing wrong with a tree per se and neither is there anything wrong with using it as a holiday decoration.

A tree used as an object in pagan worship is evil but is acceptable in other contexts. We see some examples of certain practices used in Scripture. The act of circumcision in the Old Testament was given by God as a covenant sign for His people; however, the same practice was common among ancient tribes who used it as part of their pagan rites. It was evil when used as part of pagan traditions, but it was good when used for God’s purposes.

In the New Testament, we see how Paul talked about food sacrificed to idols in 1 Corinthians 8-1 & Romans 14. Paul highlights nothing was wrong with the food (even after its use in pagan worship). Its use in pagan worship was wrong, but its use is good when used by God as a provision for His people. 

1 Corinthians 8:4-6 (ESV)

4. Therefore, as to the eating of food offered to idols, we know that “an idol has no real existence,” and that “there is no God but one.”

5. For although there may be so-called gods in heaven or on earth—as indeed there are many “gods” and many “lords”—

6. yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist.

Since God created all things and everything is subjected under Him. There is no harm in using things and reclaiming them for His glory and honor.

Regardless of your reasoning behind not celebrating the 25th of December, there is no harm in taking a date, sanctifying it, and making the most of it to the glory of God and His marvelous work of salvation.