Liberty, Love, and the Incarnation: A Romans 14 Perspective
Let us not spend this day in "quarrels over opinions" (Romans 14:1). Instead, let us pursue what makes for peace. Whether you observe the day or not, do it unto the Lord.
As we walk through this season, many of us encounter brothers and sisters who expressed concerns about the celebration of Christmas. Their desire for biblical "purity" is often sincere, but sometimes we can lose sight of the law of liberty and the law of love.
How do we respond when someone says Christmas isn't biblical, wasn't commanded, or is akin to other worldly holidays? We turn to the wisdom of the Apostle Paul in Romans 14.
1. The Purpose of Christian Liberty
The argument often made is: "It is not commanded, therefore it is forbidden." However, Romans 14 was written precisely for things that are neither commanded nor forbidden.
"One person esteems one day as better than another, while another esteems all days alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind." (Romans 14:5)
Paul acknowledges that Christians will disagree on the significance of certain days. His instruction isn't to "correct" the one celebrating, but to ensure that whatever we do, we do it "in honor of the Lord" (v. 6). If our hearts are set on the wonder of God becoming flesh, we are fulfilling the spirit of worship.
2. Tradition is Not Always Transgression
It is true that the New Testament does not record a first-century "Christmas service." But the absence of a command is not a prohibition of a celebration.
Consider Jesus in John 10:22-23. He attended the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah). This feast was not found in the Law of Moses; it was a tradition established by men to celebrate God’s deliverance of the Temple. Jesus did not rebuke the people for celebrating something "not commanded"; He used the occasion to teach that He is the Son of God.
3. Commemoration vs. Calculation
Some call the December 25th date a "lie" because it likely isn't the actual birth date of Christ. But there is a vital difference between a lie and a memorial.
When we celebrate, we aren't swearing an oath to a calendar date; we are setting aside time to meditate on a historical fact: "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us" (John 1:14). Whether it happened in December or April, the truth of the Incarnation remains the same. We celebrate the Person, not the date.
4. Distinguishing the Light from the Dark
Finally, we must address the comparison to Halloween. While some holidays focus on images of darkness or fear, Christmas—for the believer—focuses on the Light of the World.
To equate the celebration of the Savior’s birth with the celebration of the demonic is to miss the "fruit" of the occasion. Romans 14:17 tells us that the kingdom of God is about "righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit." If our celebration produces these fruits, it stands in stark contrast to anything "satanic."
"To the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen."
"Let us judge one another no longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother." (Romans 14:13)