The Bible gives no indication that a special celebration for the birth of Jesus is to be performed. No command from Jesus, no example or pattern of a celebration in scripture or early church practice to be found. Is the birth of the Savior a major event? Yes, of course! However, to put the binding of having a special worship service to commemorate the event is going beyond the teaching of the Bible, specifically the New Testament teaching.

The events surrounding the birth of Christ are given to us in Matthew and Luke. You are encouraged to read the accounts carefully. The traditional view of a stable with animals and baby Jesus being placed in the manger is not found. The Bible says this, And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. (Luke 2:7). No mention of animals or stables, just a manger. What is that? It is a place for fodder, food, for the animals to eat. Could animals have been present, yes, however, they are assumed and not mentioned here. What about the shepherds? They were told to go to Bethlehem and see the newborn Savior Luke 2:16 says they found their way to Mary and Joseph and found the baby in the manger. How many shepherds were there? Scripture does not say.

What about the magi or the three kings as they are called? They do not see Jesus in the manger. Matthew 2: Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem We are not told that there were three and they came later to Jerusalem to see Jesus and then proceeded to a house in Bethlehem.

They brought gifts of three varieties Matthew 2:11 After coming into the house they saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they fell to the ground and worshiped Him. Then, opening their treasures, they presented to Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

His birth began being celebrated on December 25th many years (4th century) after the church was established. Nowhere in scripture is the date given. May we be grateful for His birth every day and remember that He came to save the world. May we preach and teach Jesus who was born, lived, died, and rose again to reign eternally over His kingdom, the church.