The What Does The Bible Say Christmas is a time to remember the true meaning of the holiday, as indicated in the scriptures. In **Isaiah 9:6**, it states: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” This verse highlights the significance of Jesus’ birth and the peace that he brings to the world.
Furthermore, **Luke 2:11** proclaims: “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” This verse emphasizes the importance of Jesus’ birth as the fulfillment of God’s promise to send a savior to redeem humanity. The What Does The Bible Say Christmas reminds us to reflect on the true reason for the season and to celebrate the birth of Jesus with joy and gratitude.
The Biblical Origins of Christmas
can be traced back to the birth of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Bible. The story of Christmas as we know it today begins with the announcement of the birth of Jesus to the Virgin Mary by the angel Gabriel. This significant event is documented in the Gospel of Luke:
Luke 1:30-33
‘The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”‘
This miraculous birth was foretold by the prophets in the Old Testament, such as Isaiah, who prophesied about the coming of a savior:
Isaiah 9:6-7
‘For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.’
The birth of Jesus in Bethlehem was a fulfillment of these prophecies, as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew:
Matthew 1:22-23
‘All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”).’
The account of the shepherds being visited by angels and told about the birth of Jesus is also a crucial part of the Christmas story:
Luke 2:10-11
‘But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.”‘
The wise men also played a significant role in the Christmas story, as they followed the star to find the newborn King:
Matthew 2:9-11
‘After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him.’
In conclusion, are deeply rooted in the birth of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Bible. The prophecies, angelic announcements, and the visit of the shepherds and wise men all play a crucial role in shaping the narrative of the birth of Christ, which is celebrated as Christmas. May we always remember the true meaning of Christmas and the incredible gift of God’s love to humanity through the birth of His Son.
The Importance of Jesus’ Birth in the Bible
Jesus’ birth holds significant importance in the Bible, as it fulfills numerous prophecies and brings salvation to humanity. Let us explore the significance of Jesus’ birth through various Bible stories and verses:
The Fulfillment of Prophecies
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Isaiah 7:14 (NIV):
“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.”
The birth of Jesus fulfills the prophecy in Isaiah 7:14, where it was foretold that a virgin would conceive and give birth to a son. This miraculous event confirms Jesus’ identity as the Messiah.
The Savior of the World
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Matthew 1:21 (NIV):
“She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus because he will save his people from their sins.”
Jesus’ birth is crucial as it marks the arrival of the Savior who will redeem humanity from sin. Through His birth, Jesus brings hope, forgiveness, and eternal life to all who believe in Him.
The Light of the World
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John 8:12 (NIV):
“When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.”
Jesus’ birth symbolizes the arrival of the Light of the World, bringing illumination and guidance to those in spiritual darkness. His birth brings light to a world lost in sin and darkness.
The Prince of Peace
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Isaiah 9:6 (NIV):
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
Jesus’ birth heralds the coming of the Prince of Peace, who will bring peace to a broken and divided world. His birth signifies the reconciliation of humanity with God and the restoration of peace and harmony.
The Incarnation of God
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John 1:14 (NIV):
“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”
Jesus’ birth signifies the incarnation of God, as He takes on human form to dwell among His people. Through His birth, Jesus reveals God’s love, grace, and truth to humanity, paving the way for reconciliation and salvation.
Christmas Traditions and Biblical Significance
Christmas is a time of joy and celebration for Christians all around the world. Many of the traditions we see today during the holiday season have deep roots in the Bible and hold significant meaning for believers. Let’s explore some of these traditions and the biblical significance behind them.
1. Giving Gifts
One of the most well-known Christmas traditions is the act of giving gifts. This tradition stems from the story of the Three Wise Men who brought gifts to baby Jesus in Bethlehem.
Matthew 2:11
“On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.”
2. Christmas Tree
Another common tradition is decorating a Christmas tree. While the Bible does not mention Christmas trees specifically, the evergreen tree has been linked to eternal life and the promise of new life in Christ.
Jeremiah 10:1-5
“Hear what the Lord says to you, people of Israel. This is what the Lord says: Do not learn the ways of the nations… For the practices of the peoples are worthless; they cut a tree out of the forest, and a craftsman shapes it with his chisel.”
3. Nativity Scene
Setting up a nativity scene with figurines of baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds is a popular tradition during Christmas. This tradition reminds us of the humble birth of Jesus in a manger.
Luke 2:12
“And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.”
4. Christmas Carols
Singing Christmas carols is another tradition that brings joy and spreads the message of Christ’s birth. Many carols are based on biblical stories such as the angels’ announcement to the shepherds.
Luke 2:13-14
“Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.'”
5. Candlelight Services
Attending a candlelight service on Christmas Eve is a beautiful tradition that symbolizes Jesus as the light of the world. The lighting of candles represents the spreading of His light to all nations.
John 8:12
“When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.'”
| Tradition | Biblical Significance |
|---|---|
| Giving Gifts | Reflecting the gifts of the Three Wise Men to Jesus |
| Christmas Tree | Symbolizing eternal life and new life in Christ |
| Nativity Scene | Reminding us of the humble birth of Jesus |
| Christmas Carols | Spreading the message of Christ’s birth through music |
| Candlelight Services | Symbolizing Jesus as the light of the world |
Applying Biblical Wisdom to Celebrate Christmas Mindfully
1. **Focus on the Gift of Jesus**:
As we celebrate Christmas, it is essential to remember the true reason for the season – the gift of Jesus Christ. In Luke 2:11, the angel declared, “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” Let us keep our hearts centered on Jesus and His sacrifice for us.
2. **Practice Gratitude**:
During the Christmas season, it is easy to get caught up in the materialistic aspects of the holiday. However, practicing gratitude is a key aspect of celebrating Christmas mindfully. In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, we are reminded to “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
3. **Share God’s Love**:
Christmas is a time of sharing love and joy with others. Let us remember the words of John 13:34-35, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.” Let us spread God’s love to those around us.
4. **Seek Peace and Joy**:
In the midst of the busyness of the holiday season, it is important to seek peace and joy in God. In John 14:27, Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” Let us find rest in God’s peace and experience true joy.
5. **Reflect on the Miracles of Christmas**:
The Christmas story is filled with miracles, from the virgin birth to the visit of the wise men. Let us reflect on these miracles and remember God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. In Matthew 1:23, it is written, “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). Let us marvel at the miracle of God coming to dwell among us.
In conclusion, as we celebrate Christmas, let us apply biblical wisdom to do so mindfully. Let us focus on the gift of Jesus, practice gratitude, share God’s love, seek peace and joy, and reflect on the miracles of Christmas. Let us remember the true reason for the season and celebrate with hearts full of praise and thanksgiving. May we experience the true meaning of Christmas as we honor and glorify Jesus Christ.
In conclusion, while the Bible does not specifically mention the modern traditions of Christmas, it does emphasize the themes of joy, peace, love, and giving, which are at the heart of the holiday season. Whether you celebrate Christmas as a religious holiday or simply as a time of togetherness and goodwill, may the spirit of the season bring you happiness and blessings. And remember, the true meaning of Christmas lies not in the decorations or the presents, but in the spirit of love and kindness that we share with one another. So, as we reflect on the story of Jesus’ birth and the teachings of the Bible, let us strive to embody those values in our own lives, not just during the holiday season, but throughout the year. Merry Christmas and may you have a blessed and joyous holiday season.