Some Christians today say there’s nothing wrong with any modern holiday traditions as long as the celebration is around Jesus. Others say Christians should not lie to their children and should have nothing to do with Santa Claus because of the greed and materialism this season produces. But this leads to more questions.
How did Jesus’ disciples and the early church celebrate Christmas? Did followers of Jesus give each other gifts?
When did the tradition of Santa Claus become the cultural norm, and are parents really lying when they tell their kids about Santa Claus?
The origin, meaning, and celebration of Christmas controversial to some within the church. Most of us understand Jesus wasn’t really born on December 25th, (it may have been in September) and Christmas comes from pagan holiday traditions, but do bells and lights and Christmas trees represent pagan worship?
How about your family? (Listen to podcast for many people’s responses to the Santa Claus/Christmas controversy)
What should parents tell their children about Santa Claus? Many Christian parents are torn as to whether or not they should play the “Santa game” with their children. On one hand, he makes Christmas fun and magical, leaving wonderful holiday memories for years to come. On the other hand, the focus of Christmas should be on Jesus Christ and how much He has already given us. So, is the story of Santa Claus an innocent addition to Christmas festivities, or is he a subject that should be avoided?
SCRIPTURES
As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up; 15 so that whoever [d]believes will in Him have eternal life. 16 “For God so loved the world, that He gave His [e]only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. John 3:14-16
for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.” Luke 2:11-14
But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, 5 so that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. Galatians 4:4-5
And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and for a sign to be opposed— 35 and a sword will pierce even your own soul—to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.” Luke 2:34-35
Pastor John Mac Arthur stated:
There is no connection between the worship of idols and the use of Christmas trees. We should not be anxious about baseless arguments against Christmas decorations. Rather, we should be focused on the Christ of Christmas and giving all diligence to remembering the real reason for the season.
ARTICLES
5 Reasons to Just Say ‘No’ to Santa
Christmas Confessions: Should we Lie to our Kids about Santa Claus? (Christian source)
Should Christians Celebrate Christmas?
Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Lie To Your Kids About Santa (secular source)