We are not told to celebrate these holidays in the Bible. Christians, however, are free to observe or not observe any day as long as it done as to God. (Romans 14:5,6) Nevertheless, this does not give us liberty to bring idolatrous practices into our worship. (Romans 1:21-23,25; Acts 15:20; 21:25; 1 Corinthians 10:14; 2 Corinthians 6:15,16; Galatians 5:19,20; 1 Thessalonians 1:9; 1 Peter 4:3; 1 John 5:21; Revelation 2:14,20) In this regard we might think of the day and the celebration itself as two different things. All days of our life belong to, and are given to us by our Heavenly Father (Ecclesiastes 5:18; 8:15), and are appropriate for thanksgiving and praise to Yahweh through his Son (Psalm 9:1; 18:49; 30:12; 57:9; 61:8; 79:13; Isaiah 30:28; Matthew 5:16; Romans 1:8; 7:25; 14:5,6,26; 15:6; 1 Corinthians 10:30; 15:57; 2 Corinthians 2:14; 9:12-15; Ephesians 5:20; Philippians 1:11; Colossians 3:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:18; Hebrews 13:15,21; 1 Peter 2:5; 4:11), including any day that men may set aside as a day of Thanksgiving, as well as December 25, January 7, and all other days, regardless of what celebrations of men may occur on those days.

The apostle Paul tells us that a true worshipper desiring to worship in spirit and truth should realize that an idol is nothing. At the same time, he tells us that he does not want us to be making offerings to demons by means of idols. Nevertheless, some Christians read 1 Corinthians 8 and 10 and get out of it almost the very opposite of what Paul was actually saying ["Flee from idolatry"], and somehow arrive at the conclusion that Paul was approving of eating food sacrificed to idols or giving approval to use of idols of the heathen as long as the Christian himself views the idol as nothing. Traditions from the popular church as well as faulty translation of what Paul said is to be blamed for this misunderstanding. Some come away with the idea that Paul is saying that it is up to the Christian's conscience as to whether to partake or not, but Paul plainly says that what we should consider is, not our own conscience, but the "conscience of the other", that is, whether our participation may embolden another in his conscience to offer food to idols, thus actually committing idolatry. Many conclude, through application of the modern meaning of the word "offend", that as long as we are not being disagreeable to another's conscience, it is okay to use the idols of the heathen in celebrations. In other words, some have read into what Paul said that if the other person's conscience approves of using these idols, that then it is okay for us to use them. Additionally, it is read into this that if the other person's conscience thinks that it is wrong to use the idols, that we should not use the idols. Basically, many have read into what Paul almost the opposite of what he really said. In reality, the Greek word translated "offend" in these verses means to cause one to sin, especially in another's conscience, so as to cause one to be emboldened to actually think it is okay to give offerings to idols.

The celebrations that occur on those days often do involve much idolatry and occultism which the Christian should want to be careful to avoid. The apostle is telling us to "flee from idolatry", not to embrace the idols of the heathen. As we understand it, 1 Corinthians 8-10 (as it appears in the Greek) shows that we are sharers in another's idolatry if we give others the impression that we are saying their idolatry is okay, even if we know the idol is nothing. And realizing that the things offered to idols are offered to demons, Paul says that he does not want us to be sharers with demons. The only exception that Paul allows as lawful, that is, permitted according to the Mosaic law, is when the worshiper of Yahweh is not informed that the food has been offered to an idol. (1 Corinthians 10:23) The believer is under no obligation to ask if the food has been offered to idol, but should partake of the food as from Yahweh, for the food itself is not made unclean by being offered to an idol, which we know is nothing. But if we are told that the food has been offered to an idol, we should refrain from eating, so as not to give approval to the sin of the other, and thus becoming partakers in the others' idolatry, and cause our conscience to be judged by another person's conscience.

For more on this, see:
Idolatry Provokes Yahweh's Anger
http://idolatry.reslight.net/ip.html

It is good to give thanks every day; it is good if we can use the world's holidays in some way to bring praise to our Heavenly Father. A special effort in witnessing is good on Thanksgiving day; some hold Bible conventions on Thanksgiving Day. However, the celebration itself, as displayed in its parades, and on the streets, has as one of its main ingredients: the Santa Claus idol. Almost every year we can hear someone say something like: "What is a Thanksgiving parade without Santa Claus?" So it has become something of an extension of the Christmas celebration.

Regarding Christmas: Many practices concerning Christmas, such as putting presents under a tree directly mimics the heathen occultic practices of presenting presents (offerings) to their idols. Of course, no one generally claims to actually worship idols -- not even the heathen. According to many of the heathen religions, they say that the offering is in the works of presentation, the wrapping, the making of things beautiful for their god or honorable dead. Even though many of the heathen worshipers of idols do not call their idols "gods", yet from the Biblical standpoint they are worshiping idols. After the offering the people eat the food or the presents are given (after being offered to the god) to the persons for whom they are meant. (We can see this practice amongst the Buddhists. Also some time ago a documentary on TV showed the same practices on many islands of the Pacific.) The Christmas tree mimics this practice, and, as evidenced by the excitement surrounding the carnality of the occasion, it should become apparent to those whose hearts are seeking to worship in spirit and truth that there is some kind of idolizing of these things taking place. Again, almost every Christmas we can hear someone say: "What's Christmas with a Christmas tree?" Almost every Christmas we can hear someone speak of the Christmas tree as "spirit of Christmas" or Santa Claus as the "spirit of Christmas." Whatever they mean by the "spirit" of Christmas, they show that they consider these material things exert a great force upon their minds and hearts in their observance of these days. Thus they give evidence of how their worship is attached to these material things. In many places the "Christmas tree" is said to represent Christ. Some claim it represents the "paradise tree" or "the tree of life."

Additionally, many Christians know we should avoid occultism, but at the same they do not realize that many Christmas practices are actually based on occultic rituals. Thus many are easily led into participating in the carnal excitement of occultic practices associated with these holidays. Many Bible students often repeat a vow, wherein they state that they will seek to avoid anything akin to occultism. It would be well if these matters be kept in mind and heart at the time of the Christmas celebration (as well as all of the worldly celebrations).

The Christmas tree actually has its roots in heathen idol worship. While many relate the source of the modern Christmas tree to pagan rituals of Germany, the usage of a decorated tree in worship can be traced all the way back to ancient Babylon.

See: Mythology and the Bible
http://idolatry.reslight.net/m-b.html
*****

Probably the greatest occultic emphasis at Christmas time is Santa Claus and his "magical" reindeer. There is the famous story repeated often at Christmas time, "The Night Before Christmas," in which read these words, "He was chubby and plump - a right jolly old elf." What is an elf? An elf, according to Webster's New World Dictionary, is "a tiny, often prankish fairy, supposedly exercising magic powers and haunting woods and hills." And what is a fairy? Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary states that the word "fairy" is from the Latin name of the "goddess of fate." In the definition, this dictionary states: "a mythical being of folklore and romance usually having diminutive human form and magic powers." And what is "magic"? The same dictionary shows that the word magic is from magos magus, sorcerer, and is defined as "the use of means (as charms or spells) believed to have supernatural power over natural forces", "magic rites or incantations", "an extraordinary power or influence seemingly from a supernatural source", "something that seems to cast a spell." What a wonderful sorcerer this Santa is pictured to be: he seemingly has all the attributes of God Almighty himself. One Christmas Carol says: "He sees you when you're sleeping, He knows when you're awake, He knows if you've been bad or good". The story is told to young children that he flies around in his sleigh, evidently in many places all at once, to deliver toys to "good" little boys and girls all around the earth. Movies and cartoons are made displaying the supposed "magic" of Santa and Christmas season. While this is fantasy, this kind of fantasy is also heavily mixed with occultic magic and idolatry. What does the Bible say about "magic"? Is this not one way that Satan makes what is evil appear to be good, and what is good appear to evil? (Genesis 41:8, 24; Exodus 7:11, 22; 8:7; Daniel 1:20; 2:2, 10, 27; 4:7, 9; 5:11; Acts 19:19; Galatians 5:20) And we have shown in our document, Idolatry Provokes Yahweh's Anger, what the scriptures say about idolatry.

There is another popular occult practice at Christmas concerning the mistletoe. Of course, the mistletoe itself is one of God's creations, and of itself can neither cast a spell or work any magic, but the occult practice of "kissing under the mistletoe" is widely mimicked at Christmas time, and many advocate the occultic belief that "if a couple in love exchanges a kiss under the mistletoe, it is interpreted as a promise to marry, as well as a prediction of happiness and long life." (Kissing Under the Mistetoe, by Atham Z)
http://realmagick.com/articles/23/2223.html

Yet we believe that the Christian, remembering that all days belong to God, can make use of the Christmas celebration to glorify God, for the occasion does cause many people's minds to be easily turned to the one for whom the celebration is supposed to honor. Thus it is a good opportunity for putting out tracts, offering literature and for Bible discussion.

As far as the celebration itself is concerned, we feel the Christian should stay away from it as far as possible, lest we should present ourselves as condoning the idolatry and occultic practices of the celebration. But as for remembering Christ, we should do this every day, including December 25.

During the holiday seasons, children especially are drawn to the excitement and glitter of the celebration. For the Christian parent, it may easy to see that this attraction is carnal, not spiritual, but it may be hard for children to understand why they should not get involved in such, as occultic practices are often given much emphasis in the school activities. Here Satan works greatly upon the emotions, not only of the children, but also of Christian parents who would wish to keep their children free from these activities. But the parent should remember the children are a gift from Yahweh, and that they are in charge of Yahweh's gift. Satan influences one to think that if the child doesn't participate that some eternal psychological damage will result. Satan may lead parents to think that it is okay, since the children are not consecrated. (In actuality, children of the consecrated are in a sense included in the consecration of the parent.) We would not want to set any rules or regulations for parents in this matter, but each must consider these matters in accord with his own conscience and that of the other.

Many like to give presents at that time; there is nothing wrong with giving presents on December 25 or any other day. Again, if a Christian gives a present, and if it is given with a gift wrapping, our suggestion is to try to keep the wrapping as plain as possible, without the winged female angels, Santa Claus, Christmas trees, etc., -- the idols common to Christmas. Likewise with greeting cards. (A greeting card usually expresses a prayer.) If a Christian gives a greeting card, we suggest that one avoid those that say "Merry Christmas", etc., and rather choose those without any of the highly praised materialolatry associated with Christmas (they are hard to find) or else make their own cards. Also we would suggest not using the expression "present for Christmas", as could be taken to imply a gift given in approval of the idolatrous practices that take place at that time, even as eating of food offered as a present to an idol could cause one to participate in the idolatry of another.

The same with decorations; the true Christian knows that decorations are nothing in themselves. But the world tends to idolize the Christmas decorations, and even a supposed image of the baby Jesus (as often displayed in the manger scene). In some places presents are presented to "the baby Jesus" before being given to the persons they are intended for, again mimicking the heathen idolatrous practices. In some instances, some even pray to the baby Jesus (that is, they pray directly before the image of the baby in the manager scene, often bowing before the image).

Our suggestion is that if any decorations are used, a simple decoration displaying a scripture or two is better.

In all these things, we need to consider our own conscience, but not our own especially, but rather the conscience of others, to see if by our actions we are leading others into believing that it is okay to idolize the things associated with Christmas. We who have the firstfruits of the spirit still need to be careful, because of our fallen flesh and its desires; we, too, may be deceived that we are not engaged in idolatry when in fact we are, even as Eve was deceived. Nor can we judge others who might participate in these things in a greater degree than we ourselves condone; their judgment will have to be left up to our Master. Only in the case where one is openly and manifestly showing blatant unrepentant idolatry toward any material thing (as bowing before and openly offering prayers to an idol) do we feel that the ecclesia should step in. -- Luke 12:47,48; 1 Corinthians 5:11-13; 2 Corinthians 5:8.

We might add that December 25 (or a date near that) is also celebrated in similar manner (often without any reference to Christ) by almost all of the modern neo-pagan occultic groups. They are very adamant that "Christmas" is not a Christian celebration, bur rather pagan, although the Christians changed its name. Nevertheless, many of these neo-pagans actually claim to be Christian. Again the pagans do not claim to worship idols; they claim that the symbols and decorations are only as images, representations, or reminders. (Of course, scriptually, when one gives to an image, representation, reminder, etc., that which should go only to the Creator, then that image, representation, etc., becomes an idol.)

The following sites are neo-pagan and are cited, not to encourage pagan religion, but to show how modern pagans view many of the Christmas practices:
http://www.geocities.com/kotonii/sabbats.html
Yule, December 20-23
http://www.tylwythteg.com/wheel.html
What is the "Wheel of the Year"?
http://www.magicwicca.com/wicca/yule.htm
What is Wicca?
http://realmagick.com/articles/23/2223.html
Kissing Under the Mistletoe, by Atham Z
http://www.witchvox.com/white/wyulehistory.html
You Call It Christmas, We Call It Yule, by Peg Aloi

There is much more that could be said about these celebrations, but it is not our intent to go into detail on these things at the present time. Many of the sites linked to below present more information.

Someone comments that Jesus would be happy to see the faces of children on Christmas morning as they open their presents, happy cheerful holiday music playing in the background. While this presents a somewhat humanistic, or even paganistic, view of Jesus, we do not wish to be understood as making any rules concerning the giving of gifts on any day. Yes, we are sure Jesus would rejoice in seeing children receive gifts any day. We are sure that he would rejoice in truly cheerful music as long it is to the glory of God, as Peter says: "that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 4:11) so that "he who observes the day observes it to the Lord". (Romans 14:6) However, much that is done on Christmas day as well as many other holidays (holy days) is to the glory and service of the creature - the creation (Romans 1:25), rather than the creator, which is a summation of what idolatry is.

One who has corresponded with us would have us believe that December 25 (and many other days) are "pagan days". The Bible says nothing about "pagan days", nor does such a thing exist. All days belong to Yahweh. Nevertheless, one can make use of almost anything that God has provided for the purpose of idolatry, including the days. This does not make the day itself idolatrous, nor does the making of a metal or wood into an idol make the metal and wood itself idolatrous.

One objects that Romans 14:5-6 is not speaking of "any day" as we state, but that it is speaking only of Jewish holy days. There is nothing in the context that indicates this; thus, since Paul does not specify such, we have no reason to add such an idea to what he said.

He who observes the day, observes it to the Lord. -- Romans 14:6

Does this specify a specific day or specific days? It is simply stating whatever day that may be observed, thus we have no reason to think any else but that any day might be observed.

Another esteems every day alike. -- Romans 14:5

This also shows that it is any day that is being considered.

It is argued that Romans was written to a heavily Jewish audience. We highly doubt that this was true; indeed, since Rome was not in Jewish territory, more than likely most of the Christians in Rome were from a Gentile background, not Jewish. Paul addresses both who know the Law of Moses -- the Jew (Romans 7:1) as well as Gentiles are "grafted in". (Romans 11:13,17) However, even if most of the Christians in Rome were Jewish, any idea that Paul was speaking of specific "Jewish" days in Romans 14 still has to be assumed. Since Paul did not state such, we have no reason to add such an assumption to what he said.

However, the fact is, for a Christian, all days belong to Yahweh. In a sense a Christian should celebrate all days, and rejoice in them, giving praise to Yahweh through Jesus whether these days are used by others for idolatrous ceremonies or not. All days come from God; not one day is of pagan source, so one cannot say that this or that day belongs to the pagans.

Psalms 19:2 - Day after day they pour forth speech, And night after night they display knowledge.

Should we think that we can have no speech or knowledge from the starry heavens on days considered pagan?

Psalms 145:2 - Every day I will praise you.

Does David mean that he will praise Yahweh every day except so called pagan days?

Jesus told us to pray:

Matthew 6:11 - Give us this day our daily bread.

Did he mean when must pray this everyday except what a pagan might consider to his day? If so, we could never pray this prayer, since one can find some pagans who are celebrating something every day of the year.

1 Corinthians 15:31 - I die daily, by your boasting which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Did Paul mean that he could not continue this dying process in Christ on a day that a pagan might have a celebration? This is pure nonsense. We should continue in our praise of Yahweh through Jesus every day, without ceasing. -- Psalm 9:1; 18:49; 30:12; 57:9; 61:8; 79:13; Isaiah 30:28; Matthew 5:16; Romans 1:8; 7:25; 14:5,6,26; 15:6; 1 Corinthians 10:30; 15:57; 2 Corinthians 2:14; 9:12-15; Ephesians 5:20; Philippians 1:11; Colossians 3:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:18; Hebrews 13:15,21; 1 Peter 2:5; 4:11.

A day, every one of which are provided by the Heavenly Father, is what we ourselves make of it; a piece of wood is what we ourselves make of it; a piece of metal is what we ourselves make of it. The day is not pagan in itself, a piece of wood is not an idol of itself; a piece of metal is not an idol of itself.

For one with a proper understanding, we know that an idol is nothing, but many do consider an idol as something, as can be seen either by their actions or by their words. In order not to cause another to commit the sin of idolatry in his conscience, we should refrain from anything that might cause such a person to do so, such as eating food that is declared as a sacrifice to an idol. The food is not polluted because it is sacrificed to the idol, but if we eat of it in communion with one who believes in sacrificing food to an idol, we become partakers with him in his idolatry, thus, Paul's admonition is "Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry." This is a summary of what Paul says in 1 Corinthians 8 and 10.

However, because a pagan celebrates a day by offering food to an idol does not make the day itself an idol; to think so makes no sense. We know that pagans to this day make such offerings to idols and probably some are doing this on every day of the year. Our Buddhist neighbors make such offerings to the Buddha idol at every wedding, and often at wedding anniversaries. Many pagans make offerings at birthdays. Does this make every day of year "pagan" days?

Many pagans make offerings to the sun, moon, stars and constellations. Does this make the sun, moon, stars and constellations pagan? Absolutely not!

Deuteronomy 10:14 - Behold, to Yahweh your God belongs heaven and the heaven of heavens, the earth, with all that is therein.

Job tells us that it is God who makes the constellations: "the Bear, Orion, and the Pleiades, And the chambers of the south." -- Job 9:9.

Amos 5:8 - Seek him who made the Pleiades and Orion, And turns the shadow of death into the morning, And makes the day dark with night; Who calls for the waters of the sea, And pours them out on the surface of the earth, Yahweh is his name.

No, nothing that God has created, including this day and any other day, is "pagan". One can, however, misuse practically anything that God has given us for idolatrous or pagan purposes.

It is argued that using pagan rituals and pagan items and then claiming they are Christian and that they honor the Lord, is not Biblical, nor Godly in any way. With this we agree -- not an extent; we do not argue that one can use pagan rituals and claim they are Christian. As to "items" that are used in the rituals, especially idols, an informed Christian (or even a Jew) realizes that an idol is nothing of itself.(1 Corinthians 8:4) It is the rituals that surround the idol that would make it anything, thus Paul speaks of those who do regard an idol as something could become guilty of actually eating food as sacrificed to an idol. (1 Corinthians 8:7) Further on, Paul says that things offered to idols are actually offered to demons, and he likens their sacrifices to the Christian's partaking of communinion with the cup and bread. (1 Corinthians 10:15-22) Paul is not saying that it is okay to eat food sacrificed to idols, as some have claimed. Nor is he introducing anything actually different from the Law, but he is explaining the "spirit", so to speak, behind the Law regarding idolatry. His emphasis is on fleeing idolatry, and not participating in it. His is likening this communinion, or participation in idolatry, to the communion, or participation in blood and body of Jesus. The participation, or communion, with idols may be done when we partake in such a way, such as eating food offered to idol after being told that it has been offered to idol. In other words, a Gentile invites a Christian to his home, and tells him that the food he was going to give to him is offered to an idol. The Christian cannot eat of it, not because he believes the food itself has become polluted by being offered to that which he knows to be nothing, but because the Gentile unbeliever believes that the idol is something. Thus, in order for not to partake in the communion through with the unbeliever, the believer should not seek to reinforce the conscience of the unbeliever (or even a brother believer whose conscience in this matter has not fully come to realize that the idol is nothing) by eating the food offered, even though in his own conscience he realizes that the idol itself is nothing, and the that the food itself is not polluted thereby.

Some has claimed that it is only the conscience of a fellow believer that the Christian needs to consider, not the conscience of the unbeliever. Actually, Paul does indicate that it is both, the unbeliever (1 Corinthians 10:27) as well as a brother whose conscience has not developed to the point of realizing that an idol is nothing. (1 Corinthians 8:10-12) To cause a "brother" to sin by partaking of food as something actually offered to an idol, would be to sin, not only against that brother, but also against Christ. (1 Corinthians 8:12,13) To sit in participation with an unbeliever who is informing you that he is eating the food as food sacrificed to idol is to have communion with the demons, to whom the food is sacrificed. (1 Corinthians 10:18-22) It is this point that the Christian needs to keep in mind, and for which we advise not to mimic the heathen in their customs. Indeed, it is easy for one to cross the line into idolatry even if one knows that the idol is nothing, and thus Yahweh spoke to Israel: "take heed to yourself that you not be ensnared to follow them, after that they are destroyed from before you; and that you not inquire after their gods, saying, How do these nations serve their gods? even so will I do likewise." (Deuteronomy 12:30) And again: "thus says Yahweh, 'Don't learn the way of the nations, and don't be dismayed at the signs of the sky; for the nations are dismayed at them.'" (Jeremiah 10:2) Thus our advice is: Don't mimic heathen celebrations.

Someone says that as long it does not bother their conscience, it is okay to use whatever he wishes in whatever manner he wishes, as long as he does not sin against his own conscience. We hear a lot about "sinning against one's own conscience" amongst Christians, but did you know that the Bible never says one word about such? The Bible never refers to sinning against one's own conscience.* Often the 1 Corinthians 8 is cited to support this idea, but Paul never says anything there about sinning against one's own conscience. It is the other's conscience that could be led into sin by the informed Christian's eating food that had been sacrificed to idols (or, by anything else that could lead the brother into thinking that an idol is something).
======
*Some compare Romans 14:23 and confuse this with what Paul is saying in 1 Corinthians 8 and 10. Paul is not speaking about eating foods sacrificed to idols in Romans 14:23, but simply eating of different kinds of food. This can be seen as sinning against one's own conscience, but it is not stated as such. Nevertheless, the context of Romans 14:23 does give a similar principle as spoken of in 1 Corinthians 8 and 10:

Romans 14:14 I know, and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus, that nothing is unclean of itself; except that to him who considers anything to be unclean, to him it is unclean.
Romans 14:15 Yet if because of food your brother is grieved, you walk no longer in love. Don't destroy with your food him for whom Christ died.
Romans 14:16 Then don't let your good be slandered, Romans 14:17 for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. Romans 14:18 For he who serves Christ in these things is acceptable to God and approved by men. Romans 14:19 So then, let us follow after things which make for peace, and things whereby we may build one another up. Romans 14:20 Don't overthrow God's work for food's sake. All things indeed are clean, however it is evil for that man who creates a stumbling block by eating. Romans 14:21 It is good not to eat meat, drink wine nor do anything by which your brother stumbles, is offended, or is made weak.

This is, indeed, the same principle that Paul is speaking of, especially in 1 Corinthians 8:4-13, which he applies to idolatry.

One wrote to us that no one worships the Christmas tree or its decorations. Of course, a tree is not wrong in itself; it is God's creation! Nor are ornaments wrong in themselves. We cannot agree, however, that no one worships these things, for many, by their actions, and by their words, demonstrate at least that they delight in mimicking such worship. The Bible itself speaks of those who did worship such things. -- Exodus 34:13; Judges 6:25; 2 Kings 23:6; 1 Kings 16:33; Jeremiah 2:20; etc..
http://bible.crosswalk.com/Dictionaries/EastonsBibleDictionary/ebd.cgi?number=T337

This writer can testify that when he was a young kid, in his heart he did idolize Santa Claus and the Christmas Tree (as well as many other things), until he learned that Santa Claus was a lie, and that the Christmas Tree had nothing at all to do with the birth of Jesus.

Nor is it easy to get rid of all the idols we may have in heart, since our heart may deceive us. -- Jeremiah 17:9.

Nevertheless, while we can judge certain actions and practices to be mimicking idolatry and idolatrous practices, it is not for us to judge another's heart in this matter. Still, the very practice of these things could lead someone else into heart idolatry toward these things, as we can attest to, thus our recommendation for a Christian is to not have anything to do with such practices, lest by such communion one becomes partaker in another's idolatry. -- 1 Corinthians 10:20-24,28.

Updated December 23, 2006

Restoration Light Publications and Documents Christmas Customs and Their Origins MYTHOLOGY AND THE BIBLE IDOLATRY PROVOKES YAHWEH'S ANGER: How idolatry is prevalent in today's religious services. How can one be a participant in idolatry even though disclaiming belief in idol worship? Publications and Articles by Others PLEASE NOTE! We are providing the following links because they provide valuable information in understanding various teachings of the Bible. However, this does not mean that we endorse each and every expression stated in these references, nor that we endorse the total teachings and practices of the individuals or groups that provide the websites, nor does it mean that the providers of the websites necessarily endorse our beliefs and teachings. Many of these sites have traditional beliefs concerning trinity (or oneness), inherent immortality, eternal torture of the wicked, etc. Bible Students sites are marked with and asterisk (*). The True Meaning of Christ-Mass - by David J. Meyer The Origin of Christmas - by David J. Meyer Christmas -- To Have Or Not To Have http://www.promiseed.com/xmas.htm Expose: Ten Facts About the Christmas Holiday - Michael Stevenson Discusses history and idolatry. Tinselled Traditions: The Origin of Christmas Celebrations Seeker Magazine -- A lot of information on the origins and customs of Christmas. *Christmas and the Saturnalia (Bible Standard) You may have to sroll down to the question on "Christmas--And the Saturnalia". Slightly touches on idolatry but does not correlate the modern idolatry with scripture. *Christmas—Trees Not Meant In Jer. 10: 2-5 You may have to scroll down to the question: Christmas -- Trees Not Meant in Jer. 10:2-5. We agree with the answer given that Christmas trees are not specifically meant in Jeremiah 10:2-5; nevertheless one can still promote idolatry in others by putting up a Christmas tree, thus bringing the judgment of idolatry by making themselves sharers in the idolatry of others. *Jesus - Is the Date of His Birth Dec. 25? (Bible Standard) -- You may have to scroll down to the question with the title: "Jesus—Is The Date Of His Birth Dec. 25." Some good infomation, but does not directly discuss the idolatry prevalent in the celebration. *Why We Celebrate the Birth of Christ (Bible Students Online) *Christmas Day and Date of Jesus' birth (Bible Today) -- Some good information, but nothing about idolatry. *The Antichrist (Charles Taze Russell) -- Not much on idolatry, but does point out the pagan origin of Christmas. *Mythology and the Bible (Morton Edgar) -- Edgar's original text; see our revised version of this document. Should We Celebrate Christmas? -- Somebody Cooked Your Goose by Tricia Tillin The Shocking Truth About Christmas by Russell K. Tardo Is Santa Claus a Christmas Idol? Alternate source The Christmas Tree Debate (Associates for Christian Knowledge) The Plain Truth About Christmas (Cornerstone Evangelical Association) - This booklet was originally produced by the Worldwide Church of God. It has since been reproduced by many other organizations. Although produced in the 1950's, it still contains truth unknown by most people. The information in this booklet is relevant for us today. The Real Christmas Story: An Indepth Biblical and Historical Look Into the Truths Surrounding the Birth of Jesus Paperback book by Paul Pontis Challenges the common traditions and legends concerning Christmas and the birth of Christ. Origins of Christ-Mass: Catholic-Paganism (By G.V. Growcott: Antipas Christadelphians) - Very good historical and scriptural information. The Evolution of the Santa Claus Myth Compiled by David L. Brown, Th.M. I Don't Do Christmas; I Do Believe in the Virgin Birth (Wayne Camp) - Presents some very good information; Presents Jesus as God Incarnate The True Meaning Of Christmas (Jacques Gauvin) Santa Claus (Jacques Gauvin) The Idol Shepherds (Active Bible Church of God) Can Christians lead you into idolatry? - Advocates 7th day Sabbath Worship An Entreaty to Christmas-Keepers (Purity Reformed Fellowship) - A little on anti-Arminianism and pro-Calvinism, but some good info. Santa Claus, et.al. (Purity Reformed Fellowship) Christmas-Time (and more) Idolatry (Purity Reformed Fellowship) - Presents Jesus as "God the Son", but otherwise good. Also makes comments on the cross as an idol. Christmas and Lady-Day From The Two Babylons CHRISTMAS, EASTER ORIGINS AND THE BIBLE: (PreRapture Ministries - Jesus Name Apostolic Holiness Church) CHRISTMAS RECONSIDERED: (by Mario Seiglie, United Church of God) THE REGULATIVE PRINCIPLE OF WORSHIP AND CHRISTMAS: Brian Schwertley - Reformed Presbyterian) - Christmas is a Monument to Past and Present Idolatry. This treatise of scriptural principles regarding Christmas observance and idolatry is very good. Alternate Is Christmas Christian? Part 1 (Audio) Is Christmas Christian? Part 2 (Audio) by Brian Schwertley Books on Christmas history Book: Christmas in Ritual and Tradition, Christian and Pagan by Clement A Miles Book: Our Pagan Christmas by R. J. Condon Book: The Solstice Evergreen: History, Folklore and Origins of the Christmas Tree by Sheryl Ann Karas Reviews from Amazon: Why do over 40 million Americans decorate Christmas Trees? Few of us know the origins and spiritual significance of the annual ritual they perform. With depth and detail this revised and expanded second edition of reveals even more hidden meanings of evergreen trees throughout human history - for over 5000 years! Throughout the centuries the evergreen has been a potent cultural symbol of rebirth. Contemporary Christmas Trees are a vestige of the pagan practice during the winter solstice of bringing greenery into the home to symbolize life in the dead of winter. Living trees have special significance to nearly every culture from Siberia to Palestine to Greece to Medieval Germany to Aztec (Mexico) to Native American (USA) to pre-historic Japan and many more. Illustrated with dozens of period line drawings educates entertains and enlightens the understanding of the Christmas Tree - for both adults and children. Karas has ga thered nearly 40 myths legends and folktales from diverse cultures around the globe. Evergreen the tree represents the ideals that connect all human beings making it a true symbol of peace on earth regardless of nationality or religion. Illustrated with dozens of period line drawings, this book educates, entertains, and enlightens readers' understanding of the Christmas tree with a collection of nearly 40 myths, legends and folktales from diverse cultures around the globe. 60 line drawings. RRD: We present this book but caution that it seemingly tries to make it appear a good thing that the decorated tree-idol is a pagan (universal) symbol, regardless of nationality or religion.-- Isaiah 5:20 The Two Babylons or The Papal Worship Proved to be the Worship of Nimrod and His Wife (by Alexander Hislop) Book: GOD By Paul S.L. Johnson. Book: Two Babylons or the Papal Worship by Alexander Hislop Amazon: This volume offers proof for every statement, includ-ing more than 260 original sources of facts, citing title and place and date of publication of each. Illustrated with 61 woodcuts from Nineveb, Babylon, Egypt, Pompeii, and other ancient lands. Comments from Readers (obtained from Amazon): **There's no doubt about it this book is a difficult read. However, with a little persistence you too can get through this book. This book is certainly controversial, especially in our politically correct society where it is a no-no to criticize anyone or anyone's beliefs. This book compares Roman Catholicism with ancient Pagan Beliefs (primarily Babylonian and Egyptian). It's true you cannot make a direct connection of the two belief systems but the similarities are definitely there for anyone with an OPEN mind to see. Any visitor to the Vatican can see the pagan symbology staring them straight in the face. However, most people would rather bury their heads in the sand than confront the pagan origins of many of today's so-called christian traditions. They fail to consider that if the Bible was their ONLY source for religion, then Christmas, Easter, Sunday Worship, the Trinity, Halloween, and Lent would fall by the wayside since these are not of Biblical origin but man-made traditions and beliefs. Truth is the beginning of knowledge. I would rate this book 5 stars if it were easier to read. **Alexander Hislop has done an excellent job. He is one of the best scholars I have ever read. This book will certainly help you understand the difference and origin between religion and true Christianity. For the definition of religion is mans effort to reach God or to be God. True Christian worship is to marvel about an infinite God who became a man to show us the way. Through Hislops research it becomes clear that even though he focuses on the counterfeits, that the original(that is the one true God)is very real. And of course a counterfeit (religion)can only work if the original exists. This book is not only proof of the lies of wrong religion (Catholicism included) but much more of the existence of the true original. The book reveals an astonishing knowledge of the time in which Nimrod lived. For it is very well possible that Noahs son Shem lived very well into Nimrods age. If a survivor of the flood (which was Gods Judgement) was still around, that would explain why the people knew so much about ancient prophecies. Not surprising but still remarkably, this book is either loved or hated by those who read it. This reminds me on something else: For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.Hebrews 4:12 Everyone who reads this book should be challenged to read his Bible again. And if he does he has to face the fact that he has only two choices: either to believe the truth or to deny it! But either one doesn't make the truth untrue. The evidences this book reveals reminds me at: Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter.Isaiah 5:20 Definitly a must-read for every Christian! **The author is hard to follow at points, but it's well worth the effort to read and study this fascinating work. Not just Catholics but all interested in Bible truth need to know that the teachings of the Vatican and by extension the Protestant churches are NOT scriptural. Since the Bible says "quit touching the unclean thing", it is vital to consider this subject. Yes, the author does leap to conclusions at points, but all the harsh one-star reviews you see here are those not willing to face the facts: Romanism has a lot to answer for to God! RRD: I need to caution that Hislop was a believer in the trinity doctrine, and he presents idolatrous trinity as a corruption of what he believed to be the original trinity. Some sources for cards that we have found on the internet (not that we recommend all that you might find on the sites listed; we chose sites that allow you to control what goes into the cards. Some are free e-cards, others are companies that will print cards with your own message): Free DigiCards (Congregation of YHWH, Irving, TX) Free Greeting Cards -- 2000Freebies Bibel Center Classic Greetings - Free online e-cards. Hallmark Card Studio Deluxe 2003 - (Software) Customize your card with a special message or photo, preview, and print. 15-cards Glossy Photo Greeting Cards... -- From Office Depot; 15 CARDS 15 ENVELOPES Greeting Cards Software