What Does the Bible Say About XMAS (Christmas)?
XMAS, more commonly called Christmas, is a holiday recognized worldwide as the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. While traditions vary, the Bible gives a clear starting point: the historical birth of the Messiah, which is recorded in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. Over time, cultural customs, theological reflection, and historical developments have shaped the way Christians observe the season.
Understanding what the Bible says about XMAS involves looking at its historical origins, the biblical narratives of Christ’s birth, the theological significance of the Incarnation, and the way believers today can celebrate in a manner faithful to Scripture.
1. What Is the Origin of the Term “Christmas”?
The English word “Christmas” comes from the Old English Christes mæsse, meaning “Christ’s Mass,” a reference to a worship service celebrating the birth of Christ. The abbreviation “XMAS” is not a modern removal of Christ from the holiday, as some assume, but an older form where “X” represents the Greek letter chi (Χ), the first letter of “Christos” (Christ).
While the name reflects Christian worship, the way Christmas is celebrated has changed dramatically over the centuries, incorporating both sacred observances and cultural traditions.
2. When Did Christians Begin Celebrating Christmas?
The Bible does not give a date for the birth of Jesus, and the earliest Christians did not appear to observe it as an annual feast. The first known celebration on December 25 comes from the Roman Philocalian Calendar of AD 336.
Scholars suggest two main theories for this date:
Countering Pagan Festivals – December 25 may have been chosen to contrast with the pagan celebration of Natalis Solis Invicti (“Birthday of the Unconquered Sun”), presenting Christ as the “Sun of Righteousness” (Malachi 4:2).
Link to the Annunciation – Early Christian writers, including Augustine, held that Jesus was conceived and crucified on the same date—March 25—which, nine months later, places His birth on December 25.
By the fourth century, Christmas became more widely celebrated, especially after Emperor Constantine’s conversion and the integration of Christian festivals into public life. In the East, January 6 (Epiphany) initially held more significance, focusing on Christ’s baptism and manifestation. Eventually, most of the Eastern Church also adopted December 25, though some, like the Armenian Church, still celebrate on January 6.
3. How Does the Bible Describe the Birth of Jesus?
The Bible records two inspired accounts of Jesus’ birth, one in Matthew 1–2 and one in Luke 1–2. While both affirm the virgin birth and the fulfillment of prophecy, each offers unique details:
Luke’s Gospel – Focuses on Mary and Joseph traveling from Nazareth to Bethlehem for a census under Caesar Augustus, Jesus’ birth in humble surroundings, and the angelic announcement to shepherds (Luke 2:1–20).
Matthew’s Gospel – Emphasizes fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, the visit of the magi, and the flight into Egypt to escape Herod’s massacre (Matthew 2:1–23).
The popular “nativity scene” merges elements from both accounts, though the Bible itself presents them as separate episodes. For example, Matthew’s magi likely arrived sometime after the shepherds, possibly months later.
4. How Did Christmas Develop as a Distinct Holiday?
Originally, Christmas was closely connected to Epiphany, the celebration of Christ’s manifestation to the world. In the West, its prominence grew after significant historical events—such as the coronation of Charlemagne on December 25, AD 800—which gave the date political as well as religious importance.
By the medieval period, Christmas had become a season of feasts, processions, and church services. The Western Church developed three Christmas masses—at midnight, dawn, and during the day—symbolizing Christ’s eternal birth from the Father, His birth from the Virgin Mary, and His mystical birth in the hearts of believers.
5. Which Traditions Associated with Christmas Are Not in the Bible?
Many beloved elements of XMAS celebrations are not found in the Bible but developed later:
Christmas Trees – Originated in early modern Germany.
Santa Claus – Derived from traditions surrounding St. Nicholas, a fourth-century bishop known for generosity.
Gift-Giving as Practiced Today – While the magi brought gifts to Jesus, the modern exchange of presents reflects both Christian charity and pre-Christian customs.
While not unbiblical in themselves, these traditions should not overshadow the central focus: the birth of the Savior.
6. What Is the Theological Significance of Christmas?
At its core, Christmas is about the Incarnation—God the Son taking on human nature in the person of Jesus Christ. This truth is foundational to the Gospel. Without the birth of Christ, there would be no perfect life, no atoning death, and no victorious resurrection.
The Bible presents the Incarnation as the fulfillment of God’s promises:
Genesis 3:15 – The seed of the woman will crush the serpent.
Isaiah 7:14 – The virgin will conceive and bear a son, called Immanuel (“God with us”).
Micah 5:2 – The ruler of Israel will come from Bethlehem.
The birth of Jesus is not merely a sentimental moment but a declaration of God’s faithfulness to His redemptive plan.
7. How Can Christians Celebrate Christmas Faithfully?
While the Bible does not command the celebration of XMAS, it gives clear principles for worship, gratitude, and remembering God’s works. Believers can honor Christ during Christmas by:
Centering the celebration on Scripture and prayer.
Using the season to proclaim the Gospel to others.
Practicing generosity and hospitality as a reflection of God’s gift in Christ.
Romans 14:5–6 reminds us that some may choose to observe certain days while others may not, but all should do so with the Lord in mind.
8. How Does Christmas Point to the Bigger Gospel?
Christmas is not the end of the story—it is the beginning of the climactic chapter of redemption. The child born in Bethlehem came to establish God’s kingdom, reconcile His people, and bring the new creation to completion.
Celebrating Christmas in light of the Gospel means remembering that:
The manger leads to the cross.
The cross leads to the empty tomb.
The empty tomb guarantees His return.
When seen this way, Christmas fuels Christian hope—not merely nostalgia for the past, but anticipation for the future when Christ will reign in fullness.
9. Should Christians Avoid the Word “XMAS”?
Some believers object to “XMAS” as though it removes Christ from Christmas. However, historically, the “X” is the Greek letter chi, an abbreviation for Christ used by early Christians. While its modern use is sometimes commercial or secular, understanding its origins can help avoid unnecessary offense while still keeping Christ central in speech and practice.
Conclusion: The Bible’s Vision for Christmas
The Bible portrays the birth of Jesus as a pivotal event in redemptive history, fulfilling God’s promises and ushering in the hope of salvation. While XMAS traditions have developed through centuries of culture and history, the heart of Christmas remains unchanged: God has come to dwell with His people in the person of Jesus Christ.
Whether celebrated with elaborate customs or in quiet simplicity, Christmas should lead us to worship, gratitude, and proclamation of the Gospel—until the day when the one born in Bethlehem returns in glory.
Bible Verses About Christmas
Isaiah 9:6 – “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given…”
Micah 5:2 – “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah… from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel…”
Matthew 1:23 – “They shall call his name Immanuel (which means, God with us).”
Luke 2:10–11 – “I bring you good news of great joy… a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
John 1:14 – “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us…”
Galatians 4:4–5 – “When the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son…”
2 Corinthians 8:9 – “Though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor…”
1 Timothy 1:15 – “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners…”
Hebrews 2:14 – “He himself likewise partook of the same things…”
Revelation 21:3 – “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man…”
