Was Jesus Born on December 25th?
One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. (Romans 14:5, KJV)
What if I told you Jesus wasn’t born on December 25th? Would it change your faith or your perspective on Christmas? For some Christians, this leads to debates about whether celebrating Christmas is appropriate. Others dismiss the holiday altogether due to its alleged connections to pagan traditions. But is this truly what matters?
Here’s the truth: the exact date of Jesus’ birth is irrelevant. Whether December 25th was chosen for convenience or later associated with pagan holidays doesn’t change the significance of this celebration. What matters is that Jesus was born. On a specific day in history, the Son of God stepped into humanity to bring salvation. That event alone deserves recognition and celebration.
We must also distinguish between the date, December 25th, and the feast, Christmas, which celebrates the birth of Jesus. Christmas is not about honoring a specific day; it’s about honoring our Savior’s birth. Should pagan traditions dictate how we celebrate the birth of our Savior? Certainly not.
If there is any day in human history worth rejoicing over, it is the day Jesus was born. Christmas is unmatched in its ability to fill hearts with joy and lift voices in praise. Across cultures and traditions, even in secular settings, Christmas draws attention to the miracle of the Incarnation—the moment when God became man to redeem the world.
So, let me ask: what do you think Jesus cares about more—knowing the exact day He was born or simply remembering and celebrating His birth?
Another important truth is this: celebrating Christmas or abstaining from it does not make us better or worse before God. However, judging or condemning others for their choice can become a problem. You may be right that Jesus was not born on December 25th, but God is more concerned with your attitude toward others who celebrate the day. Being right without walking in love makes us wrong in God’s eyes.
Personally, I doubt Jesus was born on December 25th. But I don’t celebrate a day; I celebrate His birth. Whether it was in June, October, or another month entirely, it doesn’t matter. What matters is the joy and hope His birth brings to my life. God, in His wisdom, chose not to reveal the exact date of Jesus’ birth because it isn’t important for us to know.
If your conscience prevents you from celebrating Christmas, that’s perfectly fine. Follow your convictions. But don’t let dates or debates cause you to walk outside of love. God cares far more about your heart and attitude than the calendar.
In summary: Jesus was born—and while it likely wasn’t on December 25th, no other day in history calls for celebration, joy, dancing, singing, and light like Christmas. Rejoice and be glad, for this is what the angels proclaimed at His birth: Jesus is here!
Meditate
Does your attitude toward Christmas point others to Jesus, or does it create division? How can you use this season to reflect His love and joy?
Act on the Word
This Christmas, focus on what matters most—the birth of Jesus. Let go of disputes and allow the season’s joy to inspire you to share His love with others.
Pray
Lord, thank You for the gift of Jesus’ birth. Help me to focus on what truly matters and to share Your love and joy with the world. Amen.
Recommended Read
- How Angels Celebrate Christmas in Heaven
- Hell’s Response to Heaven’s Plan for Christmas
- Christmas in Prophecy
- Meet prophetess Anna, a Christmas prayer warrior
- View All Deshen Daily Devotionals