By Kola Ajibola
Introduction
Just like some other Bible subjects, Lord’s Supper has been grossly misunderstood by many. Some, out of their ignorance (even though they claim competence) have set out divergent and erroneous theories on the great Biblical Subject.
Our aim in this little effort is not to address all errors being taught by all false teachers on this subject but only to examine few of those errors critically by examining some Bible passages and go a little into secular History. Hence, our assignment is to verify whether the weekly observance of Lord’s Supper is a command or an opinion or a misapplication of the Word of God. Our objective is that the reader should be able to state unequivocally the reason(s) why Christians proclaims the Lord’s death till He comes (in keeping His Memory) on every Sunday.
What was the Supper called?
In the Bible, four terms were used to describe the Supper. It was called the Lord’s Supper in 1 Corinthians 11:20. In 1Corinthians 10:21, it was referred to as the Lord’s Table. The Greek text literally reads “the table of the Lord.” (Ferrell Jenkins, The Early Church, page 55). It was called Communion in 1 Corinthians 10:16. In both Acts 20:7 and 1 Corinthians 10:16; it was described as breaking of bread.
Apostle Peter admonished Christians in 1Peter 4:11 that “If any man speak, let him speak as oracle of God” (KJV); “whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is speaking the utterances of God; …” (ASV); “if anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God…..;” (NIV). In summary, this is to call Bible things by Bible names (Titus 2:1; 1 Corinthians 4:6; 2 John 9). Regrettably, men as usual have deviated and digressed by calling Lord’s Supper all sorts of names not found in the pages of the Scriptures, such as Mass, Sacrament, etc.
Institution of Lord’s Supper
The Lord’s Supper was instituted by Jesus Christ during the Jewish Passover. He instituted this most enduring memorial of all time: the Lord’s Supper as the feast of Passover drew to a close. “While they were eating, Jesus took some bread.” (Matthew 26:26a; see Luke 22:19; Mark 14:22). The bread Jesus took was part of the one used for Passover. Passover was first observed by the Israelites in Egypt (Exodus 12:1-13:10); God instructed Israelites to observe this feast annually to commemorate the fact that God delivered Israel from Egypt (Deuteronomy 16:1). This feast is referred to as feast of unleavened Bread (Exodus 23:15; 34:18; Leviticus 23:6) because Israelites had been instructed not to eat leavened bread (Exodus 13:3) but they are to eat unleavened bread for seven days (Exodus 13:6-7; 34:18; Leviticus 23:6). “And when He had given thanks, He broke it and said ‘this is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me’” (1 Corinthians 11:24). Jesus had employed a figure of speech called metaphor when He held unleavened bread and said ‘this is My body’ – The Bible is full of metaphors. For example, Jesus called Herod a fox (Luke13:31, 32). In John 10:9, Jesus said, ‘I am the door’ and in John 15:1, He said “I am the true vine”. What Christ was saying was that the bread represented His body which will soon be hung on a Roman Cross.
“In the same way He took the cup also …” (1Corinthians 11:25). The word cup (Greek, poterion) is used of “a cup, a drinking vessel” but it is also used “by metonymy of the container for the contained, the contents of the cup, what is offered to be drink. Luke 22:20b…” (Thayer, 533). Jesus explanation of the cup was that it stand for the fruit of the vine (Matthew 26:27-29)
Purpose of Lord’s Supper
The primary purpose of Jesus Christ’s death was to secure the forgiveness of sins of those who would do His will and obey His commands (see 1Corinthians 15:3; Ephesians 1;7), these are His friends (John 14:13-15).
Lord’s Supper is to serve as a memorial – “do this in remembrance of me” (1 Corinthians 11:24). It is to provide a proclamation of the Lord’s death till He comes- (1 Corinthians 11:26). It is to provide predictive element - to be observed until the Lord’s return and it is to be a communion with other Christians and Christ – (1 Corinthians 10:16).
The observance of Lord’s Supper in the Early Years of the Church
In Matthew 26:29, Jesus promised to drink the fruit of the vine “new with you in My Father’s Kingdom.” Some still believe this is to be in a distant future while some believe this to be in heaven. Conversely, the Bible teach that the church is the kingdom of Christ (Colossians 1:13), Kingdom of heaven (Matthew 11:11; 13:33); Kingdom of God (Mark 9:1; Acts 8:12; 19:8). The Kingdom of God comes into existence on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2). Not later than when the church came into existence in Acts 2 that we read of Lord’s Supper as part of the worship of the church in 33 A.D (Acts 2:42; 20:7; 1 Corinthians 11:17-34). With the available facts on our disposal as gleaned from the New Testament, when the saints gathered together in the New Testament on the Lord’s day (first day of the week), they gather “to brake bread” (Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 11:20, 33) and this they do often (1 Corinthians 11:26,33).
The elements of the Supper as earlier highlighted are unleavened bread and fruit of the vine (vine is used of the grapevine; that is juice made from grapes).
As regards the manner of observance, it is a time of self – examination because the Holy Spirit instructs “But let a man examine himself …” (1 Corinthians 11:28). All participants must partake in a worthy manner (1 Corinthians 11:27-30).
As to the day of observance, early Christians participated in this feast on the first day of the week – “and upon the first day of the week, when the disciple came together to break bread…” (Acts 20:7). The early Christian did not observed this feast on any other day than the first day of the week. A week will pass without Christian gathering together to “break bread” if such week has no first day!
Is Weekly Observance of Lord’s Supper a Command or Opinion or Misapplication?
“Do this in His remembrance” (Luke 22:19)
Going by the foregoing, a sincere student of the Bible would have come to understand that Jesus Christ had commanded His follower to “do this in His remembrance”. This is a command from the Lord. This instruction had ruled out any opinion on this matter. It is either we obey Him or we flagrantly disobey His commands. Later, Paul confirmed this by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit in 1 Corinthians 11:23-26.
With the record of Acts 20:7, the early Christians (this time at Troas) obeyed Christ and Paul was with them and they (apostle Paul inclusive) partook of the Lord’s Supper on Sunday (first day of the week – the Lord’s Day). Paul had written to Christians to “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ” (1Corinthians 11:1).
The Voice of History
Let us consider some early writings by some church Historians:
1. 90AD DIDACHE: “Christian Assembly on the Lord’s Day: 1. But every Lord’s day do ye gather yourselves together and break bread and give thanksgiving after having confessed your transgressions, that your sacrifice may be pure…….” (Didache: The teaching of the Twelve Apostles, Chapter xiv). This was written before the death of Apostle John (the beloved). If it were to be error, John would have contended it in any his writings.
2. 100AD BARNABAS: “We keep the eighth day (Sunday) with joyfulness, the day also in which Jesus rose again from the dead” (The Epistle of Barnabas, 100AD 15:6-8).
3. 110AD Pliny: “they were in the habit of meeting on a certain fixed day before it was light, when they sang in alternate verses of hymn to Christ, as to a god, and bound themselves by a solemn oath not to (do) any wicked deeds, never to commit any fraud, theft, or adultery, never to falsify their word, nor deny a trust when they should be called upon to deliver it up; after which it was their custom to separate, and then reassemble to partake of good–food-but food of an ordinary and innocent kind...”
4. 150AD JUSTIN: “And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the country gather together in one place, and the memoirs of the apostles or the writings of the prophets are read, as long as time permits; then when the reader has ceased, the President verbally instructs, and exhorts to the imitation of these good things. Then we all rise together and pray, and as we before said, when our prayer is ended, bread and wine and water are brought and the President in like manner offers prayers and thanksgiving, according to his ability and the people assent, saying Amen; and there is a distribution to each, and a participation of that over which thanks have been given …” (first apology of Justin, Weekly Worship of the Christians; ch. 68).
5. “When the Christians were assembled, prayers were recited; the Holy Scriptures was read; short discourses on Christian duties were addressed to the people. Hymns were sung; and at last, the Lord’s Supper and the love feasts were celebrated” (Mosheim, V.I, p. 164). He proceeded, “when Christians celebrated the Lord’s Supper, which they were accustomed to do chiefly on Sundays…….” (E. M. Borden, Church History, pg. 452-43).
(To read more of this, you can go to http://www.bible.ca/H-Sunday.htm for more information).
Misapplication And Misunderstanding Of The Lord’s Supper
As early as second century, men have started to misapply the plain teachings of the Bible, Lord’s Supper inclusive. Even, as at then, good men rose up to “contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all handed down to the Saints” (Jude 3, ASV).
In the second century, as strange as it may seem, some things were introduced that had not been taught or practiced by the apostles and the inspired evangelists. The use of water as a sacred emblem, were introduced in some places (E.M. Bordem, church History, pg. 42). Mosheim stated without any ambiguity that: “It is certain, that to religious worship, both public and private, many rites were added, without necessity; and to the offence of sober and good men” (Mosheim, V.I., p.161).
The author of the “Council of Nice,” says, of the second and third centuries:
“The state of religion during the second and third centuries, exhibits melancholy proof of the gradual departure from the simplicity of the gospel. It was a dark day for the church. The Lord’s Supper began to be called a sacrifice; and the minister was called a priest.” (E. M. Bordem, Church History, pg. 43).
In this age, we have several people who claim to have the knowledge of the Lord and His word but do woefully and publicly display their deplorable ignorance of the Lord and His word; especially on this issue of Lord’s Supper. Many have gone to the press even on air to say that Lord’s Supper is for remission/forgiveness of sins (contrary to baptism which Bible says is for remission of sins – Acts 2:38). Some have even said that Lord’s Supper is for longevity of life. That is wrong!
Some have even argued in the recent past that the phrase “as oft as” found in 1Corinthians 11:24-26 does not imply every Sunday. Such thought continued to suggest further that because of the definite article “the” in Acts 20:7 –“Upon the first day of the week” they say “English usage surely will translate this to mean the particular week in question.”
As noted earlier, this is an ignorance of simple and plain truth of the Bible. I wonder how those people who reason this way will harmonize Exodus 20:8. God told Israelites to “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy,” (emphasis, KSA) would they say that because of the word ‘the’, Israelites were to keep the Sabbath “the particular week in question”? Which weeks of the month or the year? Of course, any Bible students know that Israelites keep all Sabbath days holy not just one Sabbath because every week has its Sabbath! Our friends of this strange persuasion should consider this and understand that even in Acts 20:7, the disciples at Troas met on the first day of the week to break bread. The fact that Paul tarried seven days at Troas indicates that the first day of the week was apparently the regular time the disciple assembled to break bread (Acts 20:6; Ferrell Jenkins, The Early Church, pg. 57).
In 1 Corinthians 16:2, where the similar language was use in connection with the collection for the saints, the Greek in this verse literally means “on the first day of every week” and is so rendered by New American Standard Version and New International Version (NIV). So, on the first day of every week (every Sunday), early Christians communed and gave to the Lord.
Why Restoring Weekly Observance of Lord’s Supper Today in churches of Christ?
In short, we in the churches of Christ observe the Lord’s Supper on every Sunday because that is the example given to us by early Christians under the direction of inspired men. This is a fitting day because:
1. Christ rose on the first day of the week (Luke 24:1,13, 21, 46, Mark 16:9) and declared to be son of God with power (Romans1: 4).
2. The church was established on the first day of the week (Acts 2).
3. The disciples at Troas met on the first day of the week (Acts 20:7).
4. Paul gave orders to the churches of Galatia and to the Saints at Corinth to take collection on the first day of the week (1Corinthinas 16:1-2).
We employ all to come back to the Bible by practicing only those thing contained there in especially in the New Testament.
Conclusion
We have tried to show that the weekly observance of the Lord’s Supper is a command from the Lord, an example clearly seen in the early Christian’s practices and literatures. We have shown that it was not an opinion even though, as years rolled by many have misapplied and misunderstood the simple teachings of the New Testament.
We like to appeal to you once again to consider the love of God and come back to Him to follow His Word. He will save us to the uttermost if we follow and obey His words, after all, he has said, “Why do you call me Lord, Lord, when you do not do what I command you…” (Luke 6:46).
Remember, we take the Lord’s supper every first day of the week because that is the only day we have authority from the scripture to take it , “And whatsoever ye do, in word or in deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Colossians 3:16).
Stop adding to God’s word, way and doctrine! You have to because of the consequence of doing so. “Whosoever goeth onward and abideth not in the teaching of Christ, hath not God, he that abideth in the teaching, the same hath both the Father and the Son" (2 John 1:9)!
P. O. Box 35478, Agodi Gate, Ibadan, Oyo State.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Monday, January 5, 2009
BE SURE YOUR SINS WILL FIND YOU OUT
Numbers 32:23
Preamble: Our theme, “Lord, Increase Our Faith” for this 4th Annual Seminar in this year 2008 is taking from the gospel account according to Luke 17:5. So far in this seminar, we have discussed That the scriptures might be fulfilled - John 17:12, Replacement in God’s Kingdom - Acts 1:20 and now, we are to consider the next topic: Be sure your sins will find you out – Numbers 32:23.
Proposition: In this lesson, we will look at sin, possibilities and dangers of secret sins among brethren, God’s punishment which is inevitable and foolishness of covering our sins. We are to going to show from the scriptures that sin is avoidable.
Objectives: I want each reader and hearer to understand why he/she must flee sin and to challenge all of us to live a holy life.
Introduction:
- Let us review Numbers 31-32 with Joshua 2.
- Secret sins – sins committed and attempted to keep away from the knowledge of generality of brethren or morally good people.
- We may hide our sin(s) away from men but definitely not from God – Hebrews 4:13.
- There are different kinds of sin, National (Proverbs 14:34); Personal (Joshua 7:20); Secret (Psalms 90:8); Presumptuous (Psalms 19:13); Open (1 Timothy 5:24); Youthful (Psalms 25:7); Willful (Hebrews 10:26); Public (2 Samuel 24: 10, 17).
I. Sin Define
- All unrighteousness – I John 5:17.
- Transgression of the Law – I John 3:4.
- Omission of know duty – James 4:17.
- Anything done out of faith – Romans 14:23.
- Devising of foolishness – Proverbs 24:9.
God has not been allowing all sins to be kept secretly among His people. In the past, God had exposed several secret sins. God has always been exposing them, He will expose you too!
- Adam and Even - Genesis 3:1-ff.
- Cain – Genesis 4: 1- 15.
- Nadab & Abihu – Leviticus 10:1-7; 16:12.
- Achan – Joshua 6-7.
- Ananias & Sapphira – Acts 5:1-11.
- Simon Peter – Matthew 26:69 – 75. e.t.c.
In the Lord’s church, God want those who are sinning to be rebuked in the presence of all, that the rest also may fear – I Timothy 5:20-24 cf. Galatians 6:1; James 5: 20.
III. Possibilities and dangers of secret sins among brethren in the church.
Why is this possible among saints? Well, it is possible because of the nature of sins.
Sin is:
- Enticing – James 1:12-16;
- Deceptive – Hebrews 3:13;
- Pleasant – Hebrews 11:25;
- Enslaves – John 8:34;
- Easily beset us – Hebrews 12:1.
Now, let us consider the following examples:
- Ananias and Sapphira – Deceits, Acts 5.
- Peter – Hypocrisy – Galatians 2:11-14.
- Forsaking the assemble of others – Hebrews 10:25-31.
- Revelation 21:8-ff; Galatians 5:19-21.
IV. Consequences of Sin: The Punishment that is inevitable.
a. Consequences
i. Sin bringeth forth death – Jas. 1:13-15; Rom. 6:23; cf. Lk. 12: 4-5; 16:20-31; Heb. 9:27.
ii. God’s anger against sinner, they will be forsaken by Him – Deut. 31:17.
iii. God will send sinners to hell – Lk. 13:27.
iv. This punishment will last for ever, everlasting, eternity – Lk. 16: 20-31; Jn. 5:28-29; Mt. 25: 46.
b. Description of the place of Punishment
i. Everlasting fire and punishment – Mt. 25:41; 46.
ii. Outer darkness – Mt. 8:12.
iii. Everlasting destruction – 2 Thess. 1:9.
iv.
v. Fire burns with sulphur and brimstone – Rev. 21:8.
vi. The fire shall never be quenched and worm does not die – Mk. 9:43, 44, 46, 48.
The place is horrible; it is horror, a place for prepared for:
1. Devil and his angels – Mt. 25: 41.
2. Wicked – Rev. 21:8.
3. Disobedient – Rm. 2:8-9.
4. Beast and the false prophet – Rev. 19:20.
5. Worshippers of the beast – Rev. 14:11.
6. Rejecters of the gospel – Mt. 10:15.
V. Do you want to be exempted from this horrible place described? Then you must learn how to cover your sins rightly – Psalms 32:1.
a. Wrong ways to cover ones sins:
i. Shifting blame as Adam – Gen. 3:12
ii. Hide/covering it/them as Achan – Jos.7:1ff.
iii. David tried to blame others – 2 Sam. 11:1ff.
iv. Telling lies as Ananias and Sapphira – Acts 5.
b. Right way to cover our sins:
i. Seek God’s forgiveness – Psa. 85:2.
ii. You find the way in the Word of God – Jas. 1:21
iii. Gospel – God’s power to save – Rom. 1:16.
iv. Forgiveness is possible – 1 Jn. 3:5-6; through the blood of Christ – Heb. 9:22.
v. Obedience of God’ word is a must – Matt. 7:21.
VI. Sin is Avoidable: By Determination!
Examples: a. Joseph – Gen. 39:5-12.
b. Daniel and his friends – Dan. 3:10-18, 6:5-12.
c. Enoch – Gen. 6:24
How?
a. Determination to follow God’s word and do His goodwill – 2 Tim. 3:12.
b. Walking with the Lord.
Conclusion:
Sin by its definition, it is all unrighteousness, omission of known duty, devising of foolishness, anything done out of faith and transgression of the law.
Transgression could be by thought, feeling, words, actions, for there are wicked thought, wicked feelings etc.
We might have been sinning against God secretly by failing in our responsibilities concerning evangelism, edification and benevolence as an individual Christian and as a church. If yes, then we have been pilling up wrath of God for ourselves against that day!
It is an act of foolishness to cover our sins wrongly. The punishment attached to sin is horrible.
Is there any here today who has been pilling up wrath of God for himself for sinning, for committing horrible crime against God. Be sure, brothers and sisters, your secret sins will find you out!
Oh! Let me beg you, turn away from sin today. God will accept you if you can just come with all the load of your sins in genuine repentance with godly sorrow and faith in Christ Jesus.
He has promised, and He will never fail. Otherwise, your sins will find you out.
God bless you as you decide aright.
Kola Ajibola
Email: ksajibola01@yahoo.com
Is Christmas a Religious Feast?
Christmas - by Lalo B. Enriquez, Dec, 1976 (edited: Nov., 2000), Article's Web Release Date: 12-9-2002
"Is Christmas a Religious Holy Day?" Christmas Day is celebrated by millions worldwide as the "birthday of Jesus." Most religious denominations hold special religious services on this day. They arrange elaborate manger scenes, fancy plays and shows; many get involved in elaborate church sponsored "give-away" programs to the poor. It almost makes a person feel "unChristian" if he or his church does not go along with it all. A primary question must be asked and answered on the basis of Scripture: "Is Christmas a Scriptural holy day?" If it is, then Scripture must be presented. Other questions are: "Are we as Christians obligated to observe it religiously in one way or another? Can Christians participate in any way? What should our attitude be toward those who believe it to be a holy day? Does it make any difference?"
Christians are commanded to, "prove all things, hold fast to what is good" (1Ths 5:21). Many in Christendom have not done this with regard to Christmas. Most have not studied nor even thought about the origins of Christmas. It has always being a part of their lives and they assume that it is Scriptural or a part of the Bible. Others, on the other end of the spectrum, are told by parents or friends that, "Christians do not get involved with any part of Christmas; it is sinful, period!" The wrong impression is left that Christians must abstain from "any and all" holiday activity. As a result of these assumptions and or false teachings many are confused and have honest questions about this and other holidays. The Holiday Season can be very intimidating. Hopefully this discussion will help answer some questions.
THE ORIGINAL MEANING OF THE WORD "CHRISTMAS" According to the Catholic Encyclopedia, Vol. III. p. 724, the term "Christmas" originally comes from the Latin words "Cristes Maesse," meaning "Christ mass," or "the mass held in honor of Christ." This encyclopedia says that "mass" means: "the complex of prayers and ceremonies that make up the service of the Holy Eucharist in the Latin rites." The "Holy Eucharist" is the Catholic concept of the Lord's supper. Webster defines "mass" as: "A sacrament of the Roman Church, consisting of a series of prayers and ceremonies, used also by some High Anglican Churches." (High Anglican Churches would include, Church of England, Ireland and Wales, the Episcopal Church, and the protestant Episcopal Church of America). Initially then, in early Catholic thought, Christmas meant a special Catholic mass, to be conducted by Catholic priests, and celebrated in honor of the birth of Jesus Christ on the 25th of December every year.
THE ORIGIN OF CHRISTMAS This may come as a shock to many, but "Christmas" did not originate with the birth of Jesus. Our Lord did not celebrate His own birthday with a special "religious service" nor a "religious holy day." Neither did His parents nor any of His generation. Also, the celebration of Christ's birthday did not originate with the early 1st-century church. The Catholic Encyclopedia relates: "Christmas was not among the earliest festivals of the Church." In the year 245 A.D., when some disciples were merely suggesting that Christ's birthday be honored with a special religious service, Origin, an early church father, opposed it by saying that it would be sin to even think about doing such a thing.
When was the first Christmas observed? Historian Philip Schaff tells us, "We find it first in Rome, in the time of Bishop Liberius, 354 A.D." Both, the World Book Encyclopedia and the Britannic Encyclopedia, say that Bishop Liberius (an early "father" of the church in the city of Rome), in 354 A.D., ordered that Dec. 25 be adopted as the birth date of Christ and that a mass be held to celebrate this grand event. The actual date of the birth of Jesus was not known at this time. The American Book of Days says: "Scholars are of the opinion that this date was fixed arbitrarily. In fact there is no month in which reputable scholars have not fixed the date of the birth of Christ."
So, on December 25 of the year 354 A.D., the first mass was observed in honor of Jesus' birth, but only in the city of Rome. Once the Roman citizenry had accepted this observance and date, with the approval of the church in Rome and its local pope, the Christ mass quickly spread to the rest of the Roman Empire. Constantinople accepted the idea of a mass held in honor of the birth of Christ in 380 A.D. Parts of Asia Minor accepted it in 382, Alexandria and the rest of Egypt around 430, and the churches in and surrounding Jerusalem about 440 A.D. The celebration of the entire day came much later as other traditions ("Christian" and pagan) were added to the mass observance. Today's celebration is a far cry from the original intent of Liberius and other early church fathers.
WHY DECEMBER 25th? It is quite obvious that the Christmas Day festival is not celebrated because "this is the day that Jesus was born." Only the very unlearned in Scripture and those stubbornly not wanting to hear reputable scholarship will hold to this falsehood. According to all reputable scholars and historians, mankind just plain and simple does not know exactly on which day or month Jesus was born. Colliers Encyclopedia states: "It is impossible to determine the exact date of the birth of Christ, either from the evidence of the Gospels, or from any sound tradition." The Britannic Encyclopedia observes: "Before the 5th century there is no general consensus of opinion as to when it should come in the calendar, whether on January 6, March 25th, or December 25th."
Why then was December 25 chosen by Bishop Liberius to be the day Catholics were to celebrate the birth of Jesus with a special mass?
The early Romans celebrated the birthday of three heathen gods on this day: Bacchus, Osiris, and Apollo. Also, according to Philip Schaff, History of the Christian Church, Vol. III, p 396, "The heathen festivals, the Saturnalia, Sigillaria, Juvenalia, and the Brumalia, were also kept in Rome in the month of December." These were heathen celebrations honoring the galactic planets, stars, and the sun. Apollo was later to be identified with Helios, the sun god. Also, among other cultures, this was the time that was held with great regard due to the winter solstice, the time of the year when the sun is at its furthest point from the earth. The Americana states: "Among the German and Celtic tribes the winter solstice was considered an important time of the year, and to commemorate the return of the sun they held their chief festival of Yule...." The Roman church was having difficulty with members who wanted to continue observing these pagan festivals. Many had been baptized only because of the political pressures place on them by the now existent "state religion." Real conversions to Christ were scarce. To offset the popularity of these heathen festivals and to get people to think more about Christ rather than these false gods, Bishop Liberius decreed that everyone celebrate the mass in honor of Christ's birth.
IS CHRISTMAS A RELIGIOUS HOLY DAY? For the true Christian there is no religious "holy day." The Gospel of Christ (the New Testament) is the Christian's only written source of authority and the only guide for Christian religious activity, for the individual and for the congregation. It says nothing about any "holy day" for Christians to observe. It would be sin for a Christian or a local church to observe any day as a religious holy day because it would be "adding" to the word of God (Rev 22:18). It would be "going beyond the doctrine if Christ" (2Jhn 9). Under the law of Moses many holy days were observed by the authority of God. But Christians no longer live by the Old Testament with its animal sacrifices and holy days (Col. 2:14). Paul told the Galatians, "You observe days and months and seasons and years. I am afraid for you, lest I have labored for you in vain" (Gal 4:10-11). As Christians, washed by the blood of Christ and under the authority of Jesus, the early disciples had no business observing Jewish (or other) holy days or holy seasons. The same teaching applies to Christians today.
Christmas is a religious holy day to many, and these do feel obligated to observe it in a religious manner. In fact, many denominations tell their followers it would be sin if they did not. The child of God who wishes to remain true to God and to His Word will not submit to this pressure from the religious denominational world. They are wrong and against all that the Bible teaches about how we are to honor Jesus Christ. A Christian will not observe this day, nor any other such as Easter, Good Friday, Lent, Halloween, Thanksgiving, etc., as a religious holy day, nor will we even consider them as such.
It might be good to note at this time that Sunday, the first day of the week, the Lord's Day (Rev 1:10), is not the Christian's holy day. It has been said by some that it would be sin to work on Sunday because it is "holy to the Lord," "it is the Christian's Sabbath." This is false thinking and false teaching (if we are teaching this). God never sanctified Sunday as He did the Sabbath (Saturday) in the Old Testament (Ex 31:12-17). True, we are to perform certain "holy acts" on the 1st day of the week such as the Lord's supper, contribution, praying, singing, and all other things ordained for Christians to do in the 1st day of the week assembly; but these holy acts ordained by God do not make the day "holy" no more than assembling on Wednesday to worship God and study His Word makes Wednesday a "holy day."
WHAT ABOUT "CHRISTMAS TREES, SANTA CLAUS, ETC." The Christmas tree, Santa Claus, Christmas Day dinner, Mistletoe, cards, carols, Yule Log, gift - exchanging, decorating the house, wreath, etc., all fall under the category of human tradition. None can be found in the Bible! Many of these had their beginning within the Christmas observance itself, such as the cards, songs and carols, manger scene, the star on the tree, dinner, etc. Others had their origins in the pagan festivals and were incorporated into the Christmas observance. These include the Mistletoe, the Yule Log, house decorating, exchanging of presents, and others. The following is a hurried look at some of these Christmas customs and their beginnings:
CHRISTMAS TREE: Evergreen trees have been a symbol of life and fertility down through the ages. Pagans from ancient times have decorated their houses and altars with evergreen boughs. The early Europeans would decorate their houses with evergreens to ward off the evil spirits during the winter solstice and into the new year. In medieval times evergreen trees were used in a play about Adam and Eve and it became known as the "paradise tree." According to Life Magazine, Dec. 1952, Martin Luther, in the 16th century brought one of these trees into his home and decorated it with candles, and from that time onward it took new meaning. The Catholic Encyclopedia says," .... The Christmas Tree, first definitely mentioned in 1605 at Strasbourg and introduced into France and England in 1840 only, by Princess Helena of Mecklenburg and the Prince Consort respectively."
SANTA CLAUS: A Catholic priest named Nicholas (also known as Nicholas of Bari) served as the Bishop of Myra (Italy) during the 4th century. He became the patron saint of needy children and sailors, and became one of the most prominent of the Catholic saints in medieval times, third in popularity only to Jesus and the virgin Mary (The Columbia Viking Desk Encyclopedia, p.1282). The Dutch brought this popular saint to America in their migration from Europe. The name "Santa Claus" is the anglicized version of the Dutch "Sinter Claes." American poet Clement C. Moore made St. Nicholas famous to the American mind with his 1823 poem "Visit From St. Nicholas," which began with the famous words, "Twas the night before Christmas." Since then various authors and businesses have taken advantage of the marketing value of this figure now seen as a warm, chubby gift bearer. The name "Santa Claus" eventually became the most popular. One poet (Thomas Nansk) came up with the name "Kriss Kringle" ("Christ [child] like spirit"). The Scandinavian countries have had long standing traditions of certain fabled individuals ("gnomes") who would come during the winter months and help the poor. The gnome would come into the house through the chimney and leave gifts of food and other provisions in the house. Thus, it seems that through a combination of Catholic, Scandinavian, and through the marketing ventures of business people and authors, "Santa (or Saint) Claus" was born. The Catholic Encyclopedia says, "In Germany, Switzerland and the Netherlands they have the custom of making him the secret purveyor of gifts to children on Christmas eve" (Vol. XI. p. 64). During the 2nd Ecumenical Council of the Roman Cath. Church, "St. Nick" was taken off the roster of recognized "saints" in the Catholic Church. His feast day (Dec. 6) is no longer celebrated.
YULE LOG: During their winter solstice the Scandinavians would burn certain logs in their religious rites at their feast of "Yuul or Juul." The Encyclopedia Britannic says, "The burning of the Yule Log is an ancient tradition transmitted to us from our Scandinavian ancestors, who, at their feast of Juul (or "Yuul"), at the winter solstice, used to kindle huge bonfires in honor of their god, Thor." When Catholicism invaded these northern countries this religious rite became incorporated into the Christmas celebration of these people.
CAROLS: "The practice appears to be as ancient as the celebration of Christmas itself .... in the early ages of the Church, the bishops were accustomed to sing carols on Christmas day among their clergy" (English Book of Days, Robert Chambers). Most of these ancient "spiritual or church songs" were written and composed by monks and initially sung within monastery confines.
MISTLETOE & HOLLY: "Kissing under the mistletoe is derived, according to some authorities, from ancient European marriage and fertility rites. Mistletoe was a widespread symbol of fertility .... also comes from an ancient Druidic tree cult." (Good News Magazine, Scott Rockhold). Because of its connection to pagan gods, mistletoe was banned by the 4th century church, and holly was taken as a substitute. The sharp, needle like edges of the leaves symbolized Christ's crown of thorns and the red berries were mindful of drops of blood. Thus, holly also became a Christmas tradition, sharing the stage with mistletoe.
GIFT EXCHANGING: "Yet it is admitted that many pagan customs centering around the 1st of January were adopted by the Christians in celebration of the Nativity. The giving of presents on January 1 by the Romans has survived as the giving of Christmas remembrances ...." (The American Book of Days, G.W. Douglas). The giving and exchanging of presents also is thought by many to have originated with the "wise men" (Magi) who brought their gifts to Jesus at His birth.
CAN CHRISTIANS PARTICIPATE IN ANY WAY? God does not condemn our participation in civil or secular matters nor in traditions of men as long as His word is honored with regard to the activities involved. If a Christian were to celebrate Christmas as a religious holy day, honoring the birth of Christ, it would be sin. We do not have God's approval for this religious activity! This would likewise apply to the customs involved in other man-made "holy days." To put up a tree in one's home and to decorate and worship it to "ward off evil spirits," as Jeremiah said the heathen did (Jer 10:2-5), would be sin in God's sight. It would be wrong for a Christian to sing carols simply as Christmas songs. Songs about Jesus, whether they are about His birth, life, death, resurrection, or about His gospel, can and should be sung without respect to the season of the year.
Just as millions celebrate Christmas as a religious holy day, other millions celebrate it as a civil holiday. They take time off allowed them from their jobs or schools because it is a national holiday. They have get-togethers with families and friends to enjoy dinners, barbecues, games, etc. To these there are no religious inclinations whatever in the festivities. The customs enjoyed at this time of the year (the exchanging presents, Santa Claus, Xmas tree, mistletoe, family dinner, etc.) are not considered as they originally were. Also, the loving benevolent aspect of the "spirit of Christmas" is certainly a worthy spirit for any Christian to involve himself in, so long as one does not emphasize the false denominational concept that "Christmas is the only special time to do this." If one chooses to get involved, be careful not to involve the church. Simply do so as an individual or as a group who wants to join in the spirit of giving. Helping the needy in scriptural ways is always approved by God (Gal 6:9-10). Christians, if they wish, could volunteer in non religious groups who help feed & clothe the poor, homeless, etc.; or they could do "their own thing" like go and visit those in convalescent homes, hospitals, etc., beginning with those of one's own congregation! True Christians have the "spirit of giving" every day! Giving should be a concern of every Christian throughout the entire year (Jms 1:27; 2:14-16).
Traditions are not wrong just because they originate with man, or even in a religious atmosphere. The Olympic Games are a human tradition enjoyed and participated in by millions, yet they had their origin in pagan worship. The same is true of New Years Day, Valentine's Day, Easter, Halloween; and others. Valentine's Day was (is) a day in which the Catholic Church honors St. Valentine, one of their many "saints." Halloween is the Catholic's "hallowed eve" before All Saints Day (Nov. 1st). It is celebrated in honor of the dead Catholic "saints."
It is no more wrong to have a decorated tree in your home on Christmas than it is to have an array of Christmas Poinsettias sitting on your dining room table, or to have people over for a Christmas dinner. It is no more wrong to exchange presents than to dress up the children in costumes on Halloween night and for them to go "trick-or-treating." It would be no more wrong to sing "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus" or "Jingle Bells" during the holiday season than it would be to sing "Yankee Doodle Dandy" or "America the Beautiful" on the 4th of July. Christians are given the liberty of engaging in activities which are not in-an-of-themselves wrong (1Co. 10:23; Rm. 14:2-6,14). This is not to say that all things, in an absolute way, are inherently okay. Fornication is always wrong in any way, form, or fashion. So is stealing, lying, murder, sorcery, idolatry, and all the things forbidden by God in His Word. Traditions are wrong only when they bind or loose where God has not bound or loosed. Just because they originate in a religious setting does not make them wrong from now on. Practicing them with their original pagan and religious intent is obviously wrong.
It is sin for Christians to participate in the "reveling, drunkenness" and other sins (1Pt. 4:3-4) that for many have since become a part of this and other festive holidays. These sins are specifically condem-ned by God in His Word. Christians must be careful in other areas as well that have become a part of Christmas and other holidays. Consider the following dangers: (1) OVERSPENDING: The trap of overspending can result in the sin of "unfaithful financial stewardship." It is well known that many spend far more than necessary on gifts, decorations, and other things related to this holiday, to the point it adversely affects the economics of one's household. Often it affects one's financial responsibility toward government, and worse, toward God. (2) TEACHING WRONG ATTITUDES: "Materialistic" concepts permeate this holiday season. What is this "overspending" teaching our children? Related to this are the dangers that some children face with the unhealthy barrage of presents they receive. Finally, there is the danger of: (3) FORGETTING GOD: Christians are not to take "time off" from God during the holidays. There is a great deal of traveling and visiting done at this time of the year. We leave town to be with loved ones, to have dinner with them, etc. Often this involves being gone for the weekend. As Christians we must make sure there is a faithful congregation of God's people somewhere near so that we might worship God and fulfill other duties commanded by God on Sunday. We must not forget our daily duties as well, such as prayer, study, etc. Christians are to be "faithful stewards in all things" (1Co. 4:2). The holiday season, if we're not careful, can become a stumbling block toward sound economics, proper attitude development in ourselves and our children, and toward our spiritual faithfulness to God.
WHAT SHOULD BE OUR ATTITUDE TOWARD OTHERS? Because of the strong feelings of many toward this day, believing it to be the actual birth of Christ and a day made "holy" by God Himself, we, as Christians, need to be careful. A Christian who desires to obey God's command to "love others as himself" will not flaunt his knowledge in the face of others without respect to their convictions, especially Christians who are "weak" in this area (Rm. 15:1-3 - NKJV).
Christmas can be considered in the same light as "meats offered to idols" (1Co. 8-10), the religious undertones are similar. Paul says in 1Co. 8:4, "We know that an idol is nothing in the world ... there is no God but one." He continues in v.7, "However, there is not in everyone that knowledge; for some (some Christians), with consciousness of the idol, until now eat it as a thing offered to an idol; and their conscious, being weak, is defiled." Paul goes on to say that eating meats or not eating them is of any importance insofar as God is concerned, but our knowledge of this fact, and our liberty in eating meats, must not be the occasion of a weak brother to sin. In like manner with regard to Christmas, Christians who are "more mature" in God's teaching, know that NO DAY is anything in the world. Christians have no "holy day." However, there is not in every man (every Christian) that knowledge. Some (Christians) may observe Christmas with religious overtones. They may have come forth out of very deep religious backgrounds which believe very strongly in the "holiness" of such days as Christmas, Easter, Good Friday, etc. It is not easy for them to observe these days as just another "holiday," i.e., Memorial Day, Independence, Day, Labor Day, etc.
Knowing this teaching of God, and of Christians who may be struggling with some of these things, we must be careful to apply God's word by respecting (to a certain degree) their (weak) position. We might take the occasion to study with them so that they can come to a full knowledge of God's teaching on these things. Overall, Christians should be careful not to send out cards that have on them religious connotations such as the manger scene, a picture of the infant Jesus, the wise men, or anything like this.
We should abstain from putting a manger scene under our tree or in our front yard, or of participating in any religious "holy day" activity. Some Christians are careful to not use the word "Christmas," but will instead substitute the phrase "X-mas," or they will say (or send out cards that say) "have a nice holiday season" instead of "Merry Christmas." Although this last area may be in the area of personal judgment (because with many the word "Christmas" merely identifies the holiday and things in the holiday, i.e., "Christmas tree, presents, cards, dinner, vacation, etc.); yet, as Christians who are trying to teach God's truth, we should not do anything that would give people the impression we are celebrating this day in a religious way.
CONCLUSION The Christmas season is such a beautiful and happy time as a season of giving and receiving. It can be a thrill to have or to see the lights on houses and buildings, to see children's eyes light up when they first see the lights on their tree, or as they talk about Santa. It can be a warm, beautiful and rewarding feeling to help feed and do other things for the poor. Christmas can be enjoyed in so many ways as a civic holiday, similar to the different ways we enjoy the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, and other civic holidays. This is as it should be. There is no scriptural reason to think of Christmas or any other civil holiday in a religious way. God never intended for man to celebrate His Son's birthday. He did not give man the authority to do so. Christians, and anyone else who desires to respect God's authority, will do all things by the authority of heaven (Col. 3:17; Ga 1:6-9).
"What difference does it make?" some will ask. The difference is doing things according to OUR WILL or according to GOD'S WILL. To do anything without Divine approval is to go "beyond the doctrine of Christ," and to "not have God" (2Jn. 9-11). There are too many examples in Scripture of people worshiping God in wrong and unauthorized ways, all resulting in disastrous consequences; why take any chances? Consider: Cain in Gen. 4:2-7; Moses in Nu. 20:7-12; Nadab & Abihu in Lev 10:1-2; and Uzzah in 2Sam. 6:6-8. These examples ought to teach us not to take God's authority lightly. Jesus said that only those who do God's will will go to heaven (Mt 7:21; 12:50). Celebrating Christmas as a religious holy day is a religious tradition of man, established according to man's will. It cannot be found in the Bible! It makes no difference how "good" it seems, or "how much good it does," or "how much closer it makes you feel toward God." It is still according to the will of man. By the same authority of God, Christians are at liberty to observe Christmas as a national holiday. We are at liberty to use the customs which do not compromise our faith in God; that do not directly relate to the "birth of Christ."
God has lovingly ordained certain things for Christians to do to "draw closer to God." These include walking daily in God's ways (and at the same time, not involving ourselves with evil), reading and studying His Word (Ps 1:1-2; Acts 17:11), growing daily in spirituality (2Pt. 3:18), assembling with the saints at the appointed times of the congregation (Hb. 10:25), doing and maintaining "good works" by the power and grace of Christ (Tit 2:14; 3:8, 14; Jm. 1:27), walking in "joy" always (Phil 4:4), and many other things done by God's direction. Christians who want to be closer to God must remember Jesus Christ DAILY (Lk. 9:23; Hb. 12:2-3). God's will is that we also remember Jesus WEEKLY on the first day of each week as we partake of the Lord's Supper (Mt 26:26-29; 1Co. 11:23-30; Ac 20:7). God's will is that we worship Him and His Son Jesus Christ, in "spirit and in TRUTH! (Jn. 4:23-24).
MAY EVERYONE ENJOY A HAPPY, JOYFUL, AND SCRIPTURAL HOLIDAY SEASON!
"Is Christmas a Religious Holy Day?" Christmas Day is celebrated by millions worldwide as the "birthday of Jesus." Most religious denominations hold special religious services on this day. They arrange elaborate manger scenes, fancy plays and shows; many get involved in elaborate church sponsored "give-away" programs to the poor. It almost makes a person feel "unChristian" if he or his church does not go along with it all. A primary question must be asked and answered on the basis of Scripture: "Is Christmas a Scriptural holy day?" If it is, then Scripture must be presented. Other questions are: "Are we as Christians obligated to observe it religiously in one way or another? Can Christians participate in any way? What should our attitude be toward those who believe it to be a holy day? Does it make any difference?"
Christians are commanded to, "prove all things, hold fast to what is good" (1Ths 5:21). Many in Christendom have not done this with regard to Christmas. Most have not studied nor even thought about the origins of Christmas. It has always being a part of their lives and they assume that it is Scriptural or a part of the Bible. Others, on the other end of the spectrum, are told by parents or friends that, "Christians do not get involved with any part of Christmas; it is sinful, period!" The wrong impression is left that Christians must abstain from "any and all" holiday activity. As a result of these assumptions and or false teachings many are confused and have honest questions about this and other holidays. The Holiday Season can be very intimidating. Hopefully this discussion will help answer some questions.
THE ORIGINAL MEANING OF THE WORD "CHRISTMAS" According to the Catholic Encyclopedia, Vol. III. p. 724, the term "Christmas" originally comes from the Latin words "Cristes Maesse," meaning "Christ mass," or "the mass held in honor of Christ." This encyclopedia says that "mass" means: "the complex of prayers and ceremonies that make up the service of the Holy Eucharist in the Latin rites." The "Holy Eucharist" is the Catholic concept of the Lord's supper. Webster defines "mass" as: "A sacrament of the Roman Church, consisting of a series of prayers and ceremonies, used also by some High Anglican Churches." (High Anglican Churches would include, Church of England, Ireland and Wales, the Episcopal Church, and the protestant Episcopal Church of America). Initially then, in early Catholic thought, Christmas meant a special Catholic mass, to be conducted by Catholic priests, and celebrated in honor of the birth of Jesus Christ on the 25th of December every year.
THE ORIGIN OF CHRISTMAS This may come as a shock to many, but "Christmas" did not originate with the birth of Jesus. Our Lord did not celebrate His own birthday with a special "religious service" nor a "religious holy day." Neither did His parents nor any of His generation. Also, the celebration of Christ's birthday did not originate with the early 1st-century church. The Catholic Encyclopedia relates: "Christmas was not among the earliest festivals of the Church." In the year 245 A.D., when some disciples were merely suggesting that Christ's birthday be honored with a special religious service, Origin, an early church father, opposed it by saying that it would be sin to even think about doing such a thing.
When was the first Christmas observed? Historian Philip Schaff tells us, "We find it first in Rome, in the time of Bishop Liberius, 354 A.D." Both, the World Book Encyclopedia and the Britannic Encyclopedia, say that Bishop Liberius (an early "father" of the church in the city of Rome), in 354 A.D., ordered that Dec. 25 be adopted as the birth date of Christ and that a mass be held to celebrate this grand event. The actual date of the birth of Jesus was not known at this time. The American Book of Days says: "Scholars are of the opinion that this date was fixed arbitrarily. In fact there is no month in which reputable scholars have not fixed the date of the birth of Christ."
So, on December 25 of the year 354 A.D., the first mass was observed in honor of Jesus' birth, but only in the city of Rome. Once the Roman citizenry had accepted this observance and date, with the approval of the church in Rome and its local pope, the Christ mass quickly spread to the rest of the Roman Empire. Constantinople accepted the idea of a mass held in honor of the birth of Christ in 380 A.D. Parts of Asia Minor accepted it in 382, Alexandria and the rest of Egypt around 430, and the churches in and surrounding Jerusalem about 440 A.D. The celebration of the entire day came much later as other traditions ("Christian" and pagan) were added to the mass observance. Today's celebration is a far cry from the original intent of Liberius and other early church fathers.
WHY DECEMBER 25th? It is quite obvious that the Christmas Day festival is not celebrated because "this is the day that Jesus was born." Only the very unlearned in Scripture and those stubbornly not wanting to hear reputable scholarship will hold to this falsehood. According to all reputable scholars and historians, mankind just plain and simple does not know exactly on which day or month Jesus was born. Colliers Encyclopedia states: "It is impossible to determine the exact date of the birth of Christ, either from the evidence of the Gospels, or from any sound tradition." The Britannic Encyclopedia observes: "Before the 5th century there is no general consensus of opinion as to when it should come in the calendar, whether on January 6, March 25th, or December 25th."
Why then was December 25 chosen by Bishop Liberius to be the day Catholics were to celebrate the birth of Jesus with a special mass?
The early Romans celebrated the birthday of three heathen gods on this day: Bacchus, Osiris, and Apollo. Also, according to Philip Schaff, History of the Christian Church, Vol. III, p 396, "The heathen festivals, the Saturnalia, Sigillaria, Juvenalia, and the Brumalia, were also kept in Rome in the month of December." These were heathen celebrations honoring the galactic planets, stars, and the sun. Apollo was later to be identified with Helios, the sun god. Also, among other cultures, this was the time that was held with great regard due to the winter solstice, the time of the year when the sun is at its furthest point from the earth. The Americana states: "Among the German and Celtic tribes the winter solstice was considered an important time of the year, and to commemorate the return of the sun they held their chief festival of Yule...." The Roman church was having difficulty with members who wanted to continue observing these pagan festivals. Many had been baptized only because of the political pressures place on them by the now existent "state religion." Real conversions to Christ were scarce. To offset the popularity of these heathen festivals and to get people to think more about Christ rather than these false gods, Bishop Liberius decreed that everyone celebrate the mass in honor of Christ's birth.
IS CHRISTMAS A RELIGIOUS HOLY DAY? For the true Christian there is no religious "holy day." The Gospel of Christ (the New Testament) is the Christian's only written source of authority and the only guide for Christian religious activity, for the individual and for the congregation. It says nothing about any "holy day" for Christians to observe. It would be sin for a Christian or a local church to observe any day as a religious holy day because it would be "adding" to the word of God (Rev 22:18). It would be "going beyond the doctrine if Christ" (2Jhn 9). Under the law of Moses many holy days were observed by the authority of God. But Christians no longer live by the Old Testament with its animal sacrifices and holy days (Col. 2:14). Paul told the Galatians, "You observe days and months and seasons and years. I am afraid for you, lest I have labored for you in vain" (Gal 4:10-11). As Christians, washed by the blood of Christ and under the authority of Jesus, the early disciples had no business observing Jewish (or other) holy days or holy seasons. The same teaching applies to Christians today.
Christmas is a religious holy day to many, and these do feel obligated to observe it in a religious manner. In fact, many denominations tell their followers it would be sin if they did not. The child of God who wishes to remain true to God and to His Word will not submit to this pressure from the religious denominational world. They are wrong and against all that the Bible teaches about how we are to honor Jesus Christ. A Christian will not observe this day, nor any other such as Easter, Good Friday, Lent, Halloween, Thanksgiving, etc., as a religious holy day, nor will we even consider them as such.
It might be good to note at this time that Sunday, the first day of the week, the Lord's Day (Rev 1:10), is not the Christian's holy day. It has been said by some that it would be sin to work on Sunday because it is "holy to the Lord," "it is the Christian's Sabbath." This is false thinking and false teaching (if we are teaching this). God never sanctified Sunday as He did the Sabbath (Saturday) in the Old Testament (Ex 31:12-17). True, we are to perform certain "holy acts" on the 1st day of the week such as the Lord's supper, contribution, praying, singing, and all other things ordained for Christians to do in the 1st day of the week assembly; but these holy acts ordained by God do not make the day "holy" no more than assembling on Wednesday to worship God and study His Word makes Wednesday a "holy day."
WHAT ABOUT "CHRISTMAS TREES, SANTA CLAUS, ETC." The Christmas tree, Santa Claus, Christmas Day dinner, Mistletoe, cards, carols, Yule Log, gift - exchanging, decorating the house, wreath, etc., all fall under the category of human tradition. None can be found in the Bible! Many of these had their beginning within the Christmas observance itself, such as the cards, songs and carols, manger scene, the star on the tree, dinner, etc. Others had their origins in the pagan festivals and were incorporated into the Christmas observance. These include the Mistletoe, the Yule Log, house decorating, exchanging of presents, and others. The following is a hurried look at some of these Christmas customs and their beginnings:
CHRISTMAS TREE: Evergreen trees have been a symbol of life and fertility down through the ages. Pagans from ancient times have decorated their houses and altars with evergreen boughs. The early Europeans would decorate their houses with evergreens to ward off the evil spirits during the winter solstice and into the new year. In medieval times evergreen trees were used in a play about Adam and Eve and it became known as the "paradise tree." According to Life Magazine, Dec. 1952, Martin Luther, in the 16th century brought one of these trees into his home and decorated it with candles, and from that time onward it took new meaning. The Catholic Encyclopedia says," .... The Christmas Tree, first definitely mentioned in 1605 at Strasbourg and introduced into France and England in 1840 only, by Princess Helena of Mecklenburg and the Prince Consort respectively."
SANTA CLAUS: A Catholic priest named Nicholas (also known as Nicholas of Bari) served as the Bishop of Myra (Italy) during the 4th century. He became the patron saint of needy children and sailors, and became one of the most prominent of the Catholic saints in medieval times, third in popularity only to Jesus and the virgin Mary (The Columbia Viking Desk Encyclopedia, p.1282). The Dutch brought this popular saint to America in their migration from Europe. The name "Santa Claus" is the anglicized version of the Dutch "Sinter Claes." American poet Clement C. Moore made St. Nicholas famous to the American mind with his 1823 poem "Visit From St. Nicholas," which began with the famous words, "Twas the night before Christmas." Since then various authors and businesses have taken advantage of the marketing value of this figure now seen as a warm, chubby gift bearer. The name "Santa Claus" eventually became the most popular. One poet (Thomas Nansk) came up with the name "Kriss Kringle" ("Christ [child] like spirit"). The Scandinavian countries have had long standing traditions of certain fabled individuals ("gnomes") who would come during the winter months and help the poor. The gnome would come into the house through the chimney and leave gifts of food and other provisions in the house. Thus, it seems that through a combination of Catholic, Scandinavian, and through the marketing ventures of business people and authors, "Santa (or Saint) Claus" was born. The Catholic Encyclopedia says, "In Germany, Switzerland and the Netherlands they have the custom of making him the secret purveyor of gifts to children on Christmas eve" (Vol. XI. p. 64). During the 2nd Ecumenical Council of the Roman Cath. Church, "St. Nick" was taken off the roster of recognized "saints" in the Catholic Church. His feast day (Dec. 6) is no longer celebrated.
YULE LOG: During their winter solstice the Scandinavians would burn certain logs in their religious rites at their feast of "Yuul or Juul." The Encyclopedia Britannic says, "The burning of the Yule Log is an ancient tradition transmitted to us from our Scandinavian ancestors, who, at their feast of Juul (or "Yuul"), at the winter solstice, used to kindle huge bonfires in honor of their god, Thor." When Catholicism invaded these northern countries this religious rite became incorporated into the Christmas celebration of these people.
CAROLS: "The practice appears to be as ancient as the celebration of Christmas itself .... in the early ages of the Church, the bishops were accustomed to sing carols on Christmas day among their clergy" (English Book of Days, Robert Chambers). Most of these ancient "spiritual or church songs" were written and composed by monks and initially sung within monastery confines.
MISTLETOE & HOLLY: "Kissing under the mistletoe is derived, according to some authorities, from ancient European marriage and fertility rites. Mistletoe was a widespread symbol of fertility .... also comes from an ancient Druidic tree cult." (Good News Magazine, Scott Rockhold). Because of its connection to pagan gods, mistletoe was banned by the 4th century church, and holly was taken as a substitute. The sharp, needle like edges of the leaves symbolized Christ's crown of thorns and the red berries were mindful of drops of blood. Thus, holly also became a Christmas tradition, sharing the stage with mistletoe.
GIFT EXCHANGING: "Yet it is admitted that many pagan customs centering around the 1st of January were adopted by the Christians in celebration of the Nativity. The giving of presents on January 1 by the Romans has survived as the giving of Christmas remembrances ...." (The American Book of Days, G.W. Douglas). The giving and exchanging of presents also is thought by many to have originated with the "wise men" (Magi) who brought their gifts to Jesus at His birth.
CAN CHRISTIANS PARTICIPATE IN ANY WAY? God does not condemn our participation in civil or secular matters nor in traditions of men as long as His word is honored with regard to the activities involved. If a Christian were to celebrate Christmas as a religious holy day, honoring the birth of Christ, it would be sin. We do not have God's approval for this religious activity! This would likewise apply to the customs involved in other man-made "holy days." To put up a tree in one's home and to decorate and worship it to "ward off evil spirits," as Jeremiah said the heathen did (Jer 10:2-5), would be sin in God's sight. It would be wrong for a Christian to sing carols simply as Christmas songs. Songs about Jesus, whether they are about His birth, life, death, resurrection, or about His gospel, can and should be sung without respect to the season of the year.
Just as millions celebrate Christmas as a religious holy day, other millions celebrate it as a civil holiday. They take time off allowed them from their jobs or schools because it is a national holiday. They have get-togethers with families and friends to enjoy dinners, barbecues, games, etc. To these there are no religious inclinations whatever in the festivities. The customs enjoyed at this time of the year (the exchanging presents, Santa Claus, Xmas tree, mistletoe, family dinner, etc.) are not considered as they originally were. Also, the loving benevolent aspect of the "spirit of Christmas" is certainly a worthy spirit for any Christian to involve himself in, so long as one does not emphasize the false denominational concept that "Christmas is the only special time to do this." If one chooses to get involved, be careful not to involve the church. Simply do so as an individual or as a group who wants to join in the spirit of giving. Helping the needy in scriptural ways is always approved by God (Gal 6:9-10). Christians, if they wish, could volunteer in non religious groups who help feed & clothe the poor, homeless, etc.; or they could do "their own thing" like go and visit those in convalescent homes, hospitals, etc., beginning with those of one's own congregation! True Christians have the "spirit of giving" every day! Giving should be a concern of every Christian throughout the entire year (Jms 1:27; 2:14-16).
Traditions are not wrong just because they originate with man, or even in a religious atmosphere. The Olympic Games are a human tradition enjoyed and participated in by millions, yet they had their origin in pagan worship. The same is true of New Years Day, Valentine's Day, Easter, Halloween; and others. Valentine's Day was (is) a day in which the Catholic Church honors St. Valentine, one of their many "saints." Halloween is the Catholic's "hallowed eve" before All Saints Day (Nov. 1st). It is celebrated in honor of the dead Catholic "saints."
It is no more wrong to have a decorated tree in your home on Christmas than it is to have an array of Christmas Poinsettias sitting on your dining room table, or to have people over for a Christmas dinner. It is no more wrong to exchange presents than to dress up the children in costumes on Halloween night and for them to go "trick-or-treating." It would be no more wrong to sing "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus" or "Jingle Bells" during the holiday season than it would be to sing "Yankee Doodle Dandy" or "America the Beautiful" on the 4th of July. Christians are given the liberty of engaging in activities which are not in-an-of-themselves wrong (1Co. 10:23; Rm. 14:2-6,14). This is not to say that all things, in an absolute way, are inherently okay. Fornication is always wrong in any way, form, or fashion. So is stealing, lying, murder, sorcery, idolatry, and all the things forbidden by God in His Word. Traditions are wrong only when they bind or loose where God has not bound or loosed. Just because they originate in a religious setting does not make them wrong from now on. Practicing them with their original pagan and religious intent is obviously wrong.
It is sin for Christians to participate in the "reveling, drunkenness" and other sins (1Pt. 4:3-4) that for many have since become a part of this and other festive holidays. These sins are specifically condem-ned by God in His Word. Christians must be careful in other areas as well that have become a part of Christmas and other holidays. Consider the following dangers: (1) OVERSPENDING: The trap of overspending can result in the sin of "unfaithful financial stewardship." It is well known that many spend far more than necessary on gifts, decorations, and other things related to this holiday, to the point it adversely affects the economics of one's household. Often it affects one's financial responsibility toward government, and worse, toward God. (2) TEACHING WRONG ATTITUDES: "Materialistic" concepts permeate this holiday season. What is this "overspending" teaching our children? Related to this are the dangers that some children face with the unhealthy barrage of presents they receive. Finally, there is the danger of: (3) FORGETTING GOD: Christians are not to take "time off" from God during the holidays. There is a great deal of traveling and visiting done at this time of the year. We leave town to be with loved ones, to have dinner with them, etc. Often this involves being gone for the weekend. As Christians we must make sure there is a faithful congregation of God's people somewhere near so that we might worship God and fulfill other duties commanded by God on Sunday. We must not forget our daily duties as well, such as prayer, study, etc. Christians are to be "faithful stewards in all things" (1Co. 4:2). The holiday season, if we're not careful, can become a stumbling block toward sound economics, proper attitude development in ourselves and our children, and toward our spiritual faithfulness to God.
WHAT SHOULD BE OUR ATTITUDE TOWARD OTHERS? Because of the strong feelings of many toward this day, believing it to be the actual birth of Christ and a day made "holy" by God Himself, we, as Christians, need to be careful. A Christian who desires to obey God's command to "love others as himself" will not flaunt his knowledge in the face of others without respect to their convictions, especially Christians who are "weak" in this area (Rm. 15:1-3 - NKJV).
Christmas can be considered in the same light as "meats offered to idols" (1Co. 8-10), the religious undertones are similar. Paul says in 1Co. 8:4, "We know that an idol is nothing in the world ... there is no God but one." He continues in v.7, "However, there is not in everyone that knowledge; for some (some Christians), with consciousness of the idol, until now eat it as a thing offered to an idol; and their conscious, being weak, is defiled." Paul goes on to say that eating meats or not eating them is of any importance insofar as God is concerned, but our knowledge of this fact, and our liberty in eating meats, must not be the occasion of a weak brother to sin. In like manner with regard to Christmas, Christians who are "more mature" in God's teaching, know that NO DAY is anything in the world. Christians have no "holy day." However, there is not in every man (every Christian) that knowledge. Some (Christians) may observe Christmas with religious overtones. They may have come forth out of very deep religious backgrounds which believe very strongly in the "holiness" of such days as Christmas, Easter, Good Friday, etc. It is not easy for them to observe these days as just another "holiday," i.e., Memorial Day, Independence, Day, Labor Day, etc.
Knowing this teaching of God, and of Christians who may be struggling with some of these things, we must be careful to apply God's word by respecting (to a certain degree) their (weak) position. We might take the occasion to study with them so that they can come to a full knowledge of God's teaching on these things. Overall, Christians should be careful not to send out cards that have on them religious connotations such as the manger scene, a picture of the infant Jesus, the wise men, or anything like this.
We should abstain from putting a manger scene under our tree or in our front yard, or of participating in any religious "holy day" activity. Some Christians are careful to not use the word "Christmas," but will instead substitute the phrase "X-mas," or they will say (or send out cards that say) "have a nice holiday season" instead of "Merry Christmas." Although this last area may be in the area of personal judgment (because with many the word "Christmas" merely identifies the holiday and things in the holiday, i.e., "Christmas tree, presents, cards, dinner, vacation, etc.); yet, as Christians who are trying to teach God's truth, we should not do anything that would give people the impression we are celebrating this day in a religious way.
CONCLUSION The Christmas season is such a beautiful and happy time as a season of giving and receiving. It can be a thrill to have or to see the lights on houses and buildings, to see children's eyes light up when they first see the lights on their tree, or as they talk about Santa. It can be a warm, beautiful and rewarding feeling to help feed and do other things for the poor. Christmas can be enjoyed in so many ways as a civic holiday, similar to the different ways we enjoy the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, and other civic holidays. This is as it should be. There is no scriptural reason to think of Christmas or any other civil holiday in a religious way. God never intended for man to celebrate His Son's birthday. He did not give man the authority to do so. Christians, and anyone else who desires to respect God's authority, will do all things by the authority of heaven (Col. 3:17; Ga 1:6-9).
"What difference does it make?" some will ask. The difference is doing things according to OUR WILL or according to GOD'S WILL. To do anything without Divine approval is to go "beyond the doctrine of Christ," and to "not have God" (2Jn. 9-11). There are too many examples in Scripture of people worshiping God in wrong and unauthorized ways, all resulting in disastrous consequences; why take any chances? Consider: Cain in Gen. 4:2-7; Moses in Nu. 20:7-12; Nadab & Abihu in Lev 10:1-2; and Uzzah in 2Sam. 6:6-8. These examples ought to teach us not to take God's authority lightly. Jesus said that only those who do God's will will go to heaven (Mt 7:21; 12:50). Celebrating Christmas as a religious holy day is a religious tradition of man, established according to man's will. It cannot be found in the Bible! It makes no difference how "good" it seems, or "how much good it does," or "how much closer it makes you feel toward God." It is still according to the will of man. By the same authority of God, Christians are at liberty to observe Christmas as a national holiday. We are at liberty to use the customs which do not compromise our faith in God; that do not directly relate to the "birth of Christ."
God has lovingly ordained certain things for Christians to do to "draw closer to God." These include walking daily in God's ways (and at the same time, not involving ourselves with evil), reading and studying His Word (Ps 1:1-2; Acts 17:11), growing daily in spirituality (2Pt. 3:18), assembling with the saints at the appointed times of the congregation (Hb. 10:25), doing and maintaining "good works" by the power and grace of Christ (Tit 2:14; 3:8, 14; Jm. 1:27), walking in "joy" always (Phil 4:4), and many other things done by God's direction. Christians who want to be closer to God must remember Jesus Christ DAILY (Lk. 9:23; Hb. 12:2-3). God's will is that we also remember Jesus WEEKLY on the first day of each week as we partake of the Lord's Supper (Mt 26:26-29; 1Co. 11:23-30; Ac 20:7). God's will is that we worship Him and His Son Jesus Christ, in "spirit and in TRUTH! (Jn. 4:23-24).
MAY EVERYONE ENJOY A HAPPY, JOYFUL, AND SCRIPTURAL HOLIDAY SEASON!
JESUS CHRIST: A MAN, ARCHANGEL MICHAEL OR DEITY?
By Kola Ajibola
Introduction
More than any other person ever lived on this planet earth; Jesus of Nazareth has been the marvel of men for twenty centuries. Many have held various (and as expected, often conflicting) doctrine on His personality.
Despite the fact that He lived as none before or since His day has ever lived, He has been mistaken for all different kinds of person. While He was on this planet earth, some people mistook Him for John the baptizer: some, Elijah: and others Jeremiah, or one of the prophets (Matthew 16:14). Jews (most probably, Pharisees) said He has devil (John 8:52; 10:20). Nonetheless, His friends have loved Him and worshipped Him as the perfect sinless Son of God and Saviour of mankind from their sins. However, His enemies, unbelievers of varying degrees, have made countless but vain efforts to discredit Him. Above all, all of them have been forced to agree that Jesus of Nazareth was more than a man (John 10:21; Matthew 27:54).
If more than a man, was He more than Angel? Was He the Archangel Michael? Was He deity? Or, who is He? This is the major burden of this article. We will endeavour to cross examine what some religionists have coined as doctrine on the personality of Jesus of Nazareth vis-à-vis the teaching of the Bible. We will x-ray His person and put to test some of the popular opinions and views of people today about Jesus in the light of the Holy Bible, the only true Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:3; Galatians 1:8-9; Jude 3; Revelation 22:18-19).
I. THE QUESTION: WHO IS JESUS?
On two different occasions, Jesus of Nazareth, who is Christ (Acts 2:36) asked two different groups a great question that cannot be ignored.
The first group consist His friends, otherwise called His disciples, the question was asked at the time when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi. He asked his disciples in an unequivocal term as He was praying alone (Luke 9:18): “Who do people say that the son of Man is?” (Matthew 16:13, ASV). “Whom do men say that I the Son of Man am? (KJV). [See Mark 8:27-30]. Jesus later asked them the same question again but inquiring from them whom He was to them or whom do they took Him for? “He saith into them, but whom say ye that I am?” (Matthew16:15; Mark 8:29; Luke 9:20).
The second group came to Jesus on Tuesday prior to His crucifixion the following Friday. They engaged in a discussion with Jesus not to acquire knowledge or to have salvation for their souls but to “test” (ASV) or “tempt” (KJV) him (Matthew 22:35).
When Mark recorded that scene in his Gospel account, he first commented on an earlier argument Lord had with the Sadducees: “And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him …” (Mark 12:28). Matthew, in his own account made us to realize that “…when the Pharisees had heard that he had put the Sadducees to silence, they were gathered together” (Matthew 22:34) and put one of them forward who was “an expert in the law” (Matthew 22:35b, NIV) to test (tempt) Jesus.
As the discussion progressed, Jesus asked: “What think ye of the Christ? Whose Son is he?” (Matthew 22:42). Their hypocrisy prevented them from comprehending Jesus’ nature and His mission, hence, their abysmal failure to answer this question asked by Him (Matthew 22:43-46).
These questions, that Jesus asked his disciples and Pharisees in those days are the ones that every rational, responsible, sensible, noble, sane person must answer. These questions raised issues bordering on Christ’s deity. Who is He? Is He just a Man? Or
This (that is, Jesus Christ’s deity) demands an explanation; especially at this time that many religious theorists have came out with all sorts of theories about the person of Jesus Christ. Apart from this, our attitude toward Jesus Christ will determine the eternal destiny of our soul.
II. WRONG ANSWERS TO THE GREAT QUESTION: “WHO IS JESUS?”
Going by the response of the disciples in Matthew Chapter 16; some Jews of their days mistook Jesus for John the Baptizer and some, Elijah; others, Jeremiah; or one of the prophets (vs. 14). Conversely, to the Pharisees, Christ is the Son of David (Matthew 22:42).
Just as people misconceived the personality of Jesus in those days, many have also today, took different and conflicting positions as regards Jesus personality. Let us consider some of these positions and juxtapose them with what the Holy Spirit revealed in the Bible. The only constraint to this is lack of space, but some that we are going to consider will be beneficial to our study.
III. WHAT DIFFERENT RELIGIONISTS TEACHES ABOUT CHRIST’S NATURE?
v WRONG ANSWERS TO THE GREAT QUESTION: “WHO IS JESUS?
1) Atheists: They believe that Jesus was just a man. They do credit Him with being an influential philosopher and a moral intellectual who became wiser with age. They do not believe Jesus was raised from the dead. On this position, Ferrell Jerkins quoted them in his book “Introduction to Christian Evidences” to have said that Jesus “is earth’s greatest Man, its greatest teacher, greatest philosopher, He has revealed God to us as no one else has.” (Lesson 29, pg. 111). They do not go beyond this point.
2) Christadelphian: This group teaches that Jesus did not exist in any personal way before His divine conception but is the literal “word of God” that became flesh. They said “He was created a special but mortal man. He received divine power at His baptism. He received divine power at His baptism which was withdrawn at the cross.” They also teach that, “Jesus ceased to exist during the time he was dead (because, man has no soul).” According to them, upon Jesus resurrection, He became the fullness of deity in bodily form thus completing a three step progression in nature (Hebrews 13:8). They do not believe Christ will ever be equal to God or truly divine since they believe Jesus is a created being just like man and the angels.
3) Jehovah’s Witnesses: They teach that Jesus was created by God just prior to creation. Jesus then created everything else by this position; they make Jesus to be inferior to the Father.
“Jesus the Christ, a created individual, is the second greatest personage of the universe.” (Make Sure of All Things, p. 207). In the same book, they said Jesus “was formed countless millenniums ago as the first and the only direct creation by his father, Jehovah, and because of his proved, faultless integrity, was appointed by Jehovah as his vindicator and the chief agent of life toward mankind” (ibid).
In addition to the above, they teach that “Jesus is the first and greatest creation of God.” According to them, Jesus is angel Michael, the
Further, in another publication of theirs, they said “At 1 Thessalonians 4:16 (RS), the command to Jesus Christ for the resurrection to begin is described as ‘the archangel’s call,’ and Jude 9 says that the archangel is Michael. Would it be appropriate to liken Jesus commanding call to that of someone lesser in authority? Reasonably, then, the archangel Michael is Jesus Christ.” (Reasoning from the Scripture, 1989 ed. p. 218).
In their attempts to deny the deity of Jesus, New World Translation of the Holy Scripture (NWT) inserted the world “other” before “things” in the rendition of Colossians 1:16, 17 to make the text read, “By His all OTHER things were created.” It must be pointed out here that the word “other” inserted throughout the next is not in the original Greek. Consider also the rendition of John 1:1 in NWT, Jesus was said to be “a god” which is a contradiction of Isaiah 44:6. How could Jesus be a god if none other could be formed? (Read Isaiah 43:10). How could Jesus be the Archangel Michael in the light of Daniel 10:13 which referred to Michael as “ONE of the foremost princes” which implies that he was equal to other angels? If Jesus Christ is Michael the
It is a pure doctrinal error to teach or believe that Jesus Christ is Archangel Michael. Archangel Michael is separate and apart from Jesus, the Christ who is “I AM” (John 8:58).
In all their literatures, they have always wanted to deny Jesus Christ his deity by being inconsistent in their translations. Few examples will suffice here:
- John 8:58: Jesus said to them: “Most truly I say unto you, before Abraham came to existence, I have been.”(NWT, Revised 1984, pg. 1341). The Greek word “ego eimi” that they translated in this passage as “I have been” was translated in the same New World Translation as “I am” in John 6:35, 6:41; 8:24; 13:19 and 15:5. Why the difference in this passage? If they should be consistent, then their error would be too glaring for “blind” to see, hence, their inconsistency of translating “ego eimi” as “I have been” to change the meaning of John 8:58 and “I am” in the same book.
- John 10:33 “…. Make thyself a god” (NWT). The Greek word “theōn” was translated by NWT as “a god” in John 10:33 was translated as “God” in Matthew 22:37; Luke 10:27; John 14:1; 17:3; 1John 4:7; 4:12; 5:2; Revelation 14:7. Why the difference? If not for inconsistency and a day light robbery against the person of Jesus.
4) Mormon (The
5) Islam: Islamic religion teaches that Jesus is one of the prophets (messengers) of Allah. Nothing more, nothing less. Conversely, we noticed that in the Quran, no one else is called the Messiah or “His word” except Jesus.
“The Messiah Jesus …. was only a messenger of Allah, and His word …. and a spirit from Him … say not “Three–cease” … Allah is only one God. Far is it removed from His transcendent majesty that he should have a son….. Allah is sufficient as Defender” (Sura 4: 171 [Quran translated by Marmaduke Pickthall]).
The “word” (Arabic: Kalimet) has same connotation as in John 1:1 (Greek: Logos). From this quotation, Jesus’ deity and sonship is out rightly denied.
Another verse of Quran that is of interest is Sura 3:45. “...O Marry! Lo! Allah giveth thee glad tidings of a word from Him, whose name is the Messiah, Jesus, son of Marry...” Jesus Christ was hereto referred to as “a word from Him.” This term, was applied only to a Jesus Christ, no one else was ever referred to in the Quran.
It appears that there are sort of confusion in the mind of the speaker of Sura 5:116. It is very possible that some false Christian teachers might have been saying that Mary was God’s mother. This might have made one think that Christians believe in Father, Son and Mary, making three Gods.
“ and when Allah saith: O Jesus, son of Marry! Didst thou say unto mankind: Take me and my mother for two gods beside Allah? …” (Sura 5:116).
Alongside with this, Quran teaches that Allah had no son, he begat no one, no one begat Him. Hence; verse like this is found in the book: “The originator of the heavens and the earth! How can he have a child, when there is no for Him no consort, when He created all thing and is Aware of all things?” (Sura 6:102). “He … our Lord … hath taken neither wife nor Son” (Sura 72:3).
To Islamic adherents, it is too much for God to have a wife talk less of having a son. There is need to face a challenge here: Who is the wife of Satan? After all, we do refer to some people as offspring of Satan. Where is their mother? Who is the wife of Satan? Embarrassing or do you think of it as foolish? Well, we need not to be confused. The Bible phrase “Son of God” does not imply that God copulated with Mary (Luke 1:34–35; John 1:14, 18) just as Satan did not copulated with any to have sons and daughters! The Bible, which had been sealed more than 600 years before the emergence of Prophet Mohammed who propagated Islamic religion still says that Jesus is the Son of God. “This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased, hear ye Him” (Matthew 17:5).
IV. THE CORRECT ANSWER TO THE GREAT QUESTION: WHO IS JESUS CHRIST?
The Bible teaches that Jesus Christ is one of the three separate personal beings who are Divine. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are equal; and have always existed.
a) The Prophets said that Jesus was God:
Hundreds of year before Jesus was born, Isaiah said, “Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14). This was fulfilled when Jesus was born (Matthew 1:22). Matthew gave the meaning of Immanuel as “God with us” (Matthew 1:23).
In Isaiah 9:6, Jesus was referred to as mighty God. Angel Gabriel said, Mary’s Son was to be called “the Son of the most high” (Luke 1:32). Micah said “His goings forth are from long ago, from the days of eternity.” (Micah 5:2).
b) Jesus Himself claimed that He was God:
“But He answered them, My Father is working until now, and I myself am working! For this reason therefore the Jews were seeking all the more to kill Him, because He not only was breaking Sabbath, but also was calling God His own Father, making Himself equal with God.” (John 5:17-18; emphasis, KSA).
Jews ought not to object to Jesus calling Himself son of God because they also called God their Father (John 8:41) and considered themselves as sons of God. But in this passage they did. Why? They objected because Jesus said “My Father” that is God is His “own Father,” which implied that he was “equal with God.” For this purpose, they made up their mind to stone Him to death. Why? They considered this as blasphemy. The Law of Moses prescribed stoning for seven (7) reasons. These are:
v Blasphemy – Leviticus 24:10 -16;
v Adultery, rape – Deuteronomy 22:21-24; Leviticus 20:10;
v False prophets – Deuteronomy 13:5–10;
v Rebellion son –Deuteronomy 21:18-21;
v Sacrificial children to idols- Leviticus 20:2-3, Deuteronomy 17:2-5,
v Sabbath breaking – Exodus 31:14 and Numbers 15:32 – 36.
v Familiar spirits – Leviticus 20:27.
Why are the Jews after His life? The Jews sought to kill Jesus Christ for blasphemy:
“We are not stoning you for any of these”, replies the Jews, “but for blasphemy, becomes you, a mere man, claim to be God” (John 10: 30-36).
The understanding of Jews was that Jesus was making Himself God when He called himself the Son of God. This claim, finally led Him to the cross where He died for the sins of the whole world (yours inclusive), even though He himself was sinless (Hebrews 4:15; 1Peter 2:22; 2 Corinthians 5:21; John 3:16, 36) but God made it so, that Jesus Christ died for the ungodly (Romans 5:6-8). When He was presented before the Jewish Council, He was commanded, “If you are the Christ, tell us.” After this question, flew in another one, of course the most important one – “Are you then the son of God?” Unequivocally, He answered “Yes, I am” (NASV) in order word, as put by NIV, “You are right in saying I am” (Luke 22: 66-71).
c) His Apostles proclaimed that He was God:
Those who were closed to Him said He was God, for they witnessed His miracles, they constantly listened to His teaching. They saw Him lived on earth. Few examples will suffice here:
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. 14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” (John 1:1-4, 14, KJV).
“And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life. Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.” (1 John 5:20-21, KJV).
"I and my Father are one" ( John 10:30) (John 17:21-23).
"The Father is in me and I in Him." (John 10:38).
"He that hath seen me hath seen the Father." (John 14:9).
John concludes his epistle (1 John 5:20) with the straightforward testimony: "And we know that the Son of God is come . . . this is the true God and eternal life."
Space will not permit to consider all Paul’s many references in his epistles. For the sake of this piece, we will have to content ourselves with a few of the more important.
(i) In Philippians 2:6-8, Paul portrays for us the wonderful self-humbling of Jesus how that “Being in the form of God, He thought it not robbery to be equal with God but made himself of no reputation . . .” The word translated "form" here (Morphe), according to Allan Webb, “literally means ‘possessing the essential characteristics of.’” In essence, Paul says that Jesus, He who possessed those attributes and characteristics which make God, God, humbled Himself, took upon Himself the form of a servant and was made in the likeness of man.
(ii) It is also evident from Paul’s writing that what is said of God is equally said of Jesus. For example; Paul speaks of the gospel as the gospel of God in Romans 1:1 and then in verse 16, as the gospel of Christ. In Colossians 2:13, he writes that forgiveness is from God but in chapter 3 verse 13, forgiveness is from Christ in order word it is from God for Christ's sake (Ephesians 4:32). He wrote that revelation is from Jesus Christ in Galatians 1:12 and it is from the Father in Galatians 1:16. In Romans 14:10-12, Paul said we will all one day stand before the judgment seat of God, and then later on he refers to it as the judgment seat of Christ in 2 Corinthians 5:10. The church is referred to as the
(iii) Paul makes the direct statement in his letter to Timothy, “God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world received up into glory.” (1 Timothy 3:16).
We are very optimistic that these verses and many others give overwhelming testimony to the fact of the deity of Christ and surely should allay the doubts of even the most ardent heretic. Peradventure we are yet not convinced that Jesus is God, then we should consider the testimony of the Father Himself, “Unto the Son he saith, ‘Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever,.” (Hebrews 1:8).
d) His acceptance of Worship declared Him to be more than Angel and Man, Only God could Accept Worship: He is God!
Angels should not be worshipped, only God is to be worshipped – Revelation 19:10; 22:8-9. If Jesus were to be angel Michael, He would not have received worship from any being. Jesus, not only accepted worship from man (wise men, Matthew 2:11; lepers, Matthew 8:2; ruler, Matthew 9:18; His disciples, Matthew 14:33; Canaanite woman, Matthew 15:25; man born blind, John 9:38; after resurrection, Matthew 28:9, 17; after ascension, Luke 24:52) but He also received it from angels (Hebrews 1:6). Interestingly, all creation worships both Father and Lamb (Revelation 3:11-14).
e) Attributes Ascribed to Him proclaimed that He is God:
According to Colossians 2:9-10. “For in Him dwells all fullness of the Godhead bodily; …” “fullness” (pleroma) means the whole nature and attributes (Easton Bible Dictionary). Sir William Ramsay and Dr. James Moulton, both eminent Greek Scholars, agree with the above that this word would be better translated as "attribute." Again, we can have this verse as “In His body dwells every attribute of the Godhead” that is all that makes God, God resides in Jesus.
First that come to mind is there was His holiness or His self-affirming purity. Holiness is an attribute which only God can be said to possess and exhibit. Men from time to time have manifested a degree of personal purity but have failed in one time or the other, but not so with God. The holiness or purity of God springs from the essence or nature of God Himself. Isaiah gave us astounding words being chanted by the seraphim that surrounded the throne of Lord God in sixth chapter of his book as he wrote on a vision of the Lord God upon His throne: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of His glory.” No earthly or created being could this be said of. Alas, New Testament writers, inspired by the Holy Spirit in their description of Him ascribe this attribute of holiness to the Lord Jesus Christ. "For such a high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners and made higher than the heavens" (Hebrews 7:26, emphasis, KSA). "Thy holy child Jesus" (Acts 4:27, emphasis, KSA) was the reply of Peter in his address before the Sanhedrim, referring to our Lord as the holy child. For Jesus Christ to possess this attribute of holiness which can be resident in God alone and indeed is a part of the nature of God proved that Jesus Christ Himself is one with God.
Jesus has the attribute of omniscience. He is omnipotent "All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth," He said, and this statement was proved in the way He was able to raise the dead, cure the sick, heal the afflicted, quieten the elements, cast out demons, feed the multitudes and perform supernatural signs and wonders. In this demonstration of power Christ showed that He was God, for omnipotence is an attribute possessed by deity alone. He is omnipresent. Jesus certainly claimed this attribute of God when He said, “Wherever two or three of you are gathered together in my name there am I in the midst of you.” (Matthew 18:20). And again, “Lo, I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20).
Jesus is sinless (2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 4:15; 1 Peter 2:22). Who else do you think is sinless except God? Interestingly, Jesus bitterest enemies had to confess and testify to His sinlessness. Soldiers sent out to arrest Him said upon returning empty-handed, "Never man spake like this man.” Judas who betrayed Him, later confessed, “I have sinned in that I have betrayed innocent blood." Pilate who sentenced Him to death said, “I find no fault in this man.” The Roman centurion who supervised the crucifixion testified, “Certainly this was a righteous man.” The sinlessness and perfection of which is an attribute of God Himself is with Jesus, hence, the summary given by Apostle Peter in his epistle, "We are redeemed with the precious blood of Jesus as of a lamb without blemish and without spot." (1 Peter 1:19).
f) Miraculous Works Ascribed to Him says that He is God:
The various works which are ascribed to Him within scripture are further evidences that we have to come to the conclusion that Jesus Christ of Nazareth is more than both man and angel, and that He is God!. Let us consider some examples of His miraculous works.
i) Jesus claimed the prerogative of being able to forgive sin. In Mark 2:5, Jesus said to a paralysed man, “Son, thy sins be forgiven thee.” Wait a minute, who but God Himself can possess such power? The very context of this chapter would seem to indicate that Jesus wrought this miracle of healing to demonstrate that He had the power to forgive the man's sins. What about the case of the woman taken in adultery? Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn thee, go thy way and sin no more.” (John 8:11).
ii) Jesus also claimed for Himself that He was going to be the Judge of men on the last day (John 5:25-29; Matthew 7:21-23; 25:31-46). To think or teach that Jesus is anything less than God such a claim or doctrine would be preposterous and without foundation.
iii) Jesus portrayed Himself as a giver of new law. Consider His Sermon on the Mount and see how recurrent this phrase: “Ye have heard that it was said to them of old time, but I say unto you.” God who had originally given the Law to mankind surely is the only one who had the power and the right to revise, elaborate or expand. But here are we, Jesus doing it all! This actually identifies Jesus with God.
iv) One more point before we leave this, there is ever so much more which could and perhaps should be said upon this subject, we have testimony to the fact of His deity by the way in which our New Testament writers ascribe and apply to Jesus what the Old Testament writers had written concerning Jehovah. A few illustrations should suffice. We read in Isaiah 44:6, "…I am the first and I am the last, and beside me there is no God." Similarly, in the Book of Revelation 1:17; 22:13 we find where John records these words of Jesus, "I am Alpha and omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end." Remember, that the one who had uttered these words back in Isaiah had also said, "Beside me there is no God." Hence for Jesus to have made such a claim is to have identified Himself as being God.
v) In addition to the above, consider Isaiah 43:11, “I, even I, am the Lord and beside me there is no Saviour.” The whole New Testament is filled with the message that Jesus Christ is our Saviour (Luke 19:10; John 10:9; Titus 1:4; 2:10; 3:6). There is no contradiction here, for Jesus Christ of the New Testament is one and the same with Jehovah of the Old! Please, compare the following verses; I am very sure that you will always come to the same conclusion: Isaiah 40:3 with Matthew 3:3; Malachi 3:1 with Mark 1:2; Psalm 24:10 with 1 Corinthians 2:8; Psalm 23 with John 10:11.
Conclusion:
In answering the great question: Who is Jesus? We have considered some wrong answers to the greatest question as taught by some religious groups. In our attempts to shed more light on this important topic, we have not failed to x-ray what the Bible teaches concerning Jesus Christ. Reasonably, one cannot reach any other conclusion other than the one reached above – that is by considering the overwhelming testimony of scripture, Jesus Christ was more than mere man. He was the God-man, God-incarnate. God-manifest in the flesh. We have His own testimony to this fact, the testimony of those who lived with Him and wrote about Him and the testimony of the attributes He possessed and the works He performed.
Are you part of those who give wrong answer to the question as enumerated above? We are pleading with you, kindly consider your position and have change of heart by accepting what the Holy Spirit has revealed concerning Jesus Christ. While perhaps we may not be able to understand and explain every aspect of this precious truth let us nevertheless, accept it, we beg you to cling to it and jealously contend for it against every onslaught of the Satan.
God loves you and Jesus loves you. Holy Spirit loves you. Remember, if you believe wrong God, you will end up in wrong heaven. You have been sufficiently informed by this piece of article to believe a true God. God will bless you. (Amen). The Holy Scriptures says, buy the truth and do not sell it (Proverbs 23:23).
Kola Ajibola,
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