Was Jesus born on December 25th?
Neither the Bible nor history place Jesus' birthday on a specific day. Many scholars believe that Spring is the most likely time of year for His birth. The primary reason is because shepherds were watching their flocks at night and Spring is when ewes bore their young. In fact, around 200 AD, some of the church fathers declared that Jesus was born on May 20th. Others argued for dates in April or March. The actual date of His birth was not a major issue for early Christians. The fact of God's Incarnation was the primary concern.
In 385 AD Pope Julius I declared December 25th as the day for celebrating Christ's birthday. That date was chosen in part to challenge the pagan celebration of the Roman god - Saturnalia - which was celebrated with social disorder and immorality.
The world has continued to use the December 25th date to celebrate the birth of Christ and to maintain it's holiness instead of worshiping the gods of materialism and revalry. Will your celebration be that of honor and worship of God's Incarnation or will it be focused on bowing before the god of things?
Anticipating the celebration ~ Bob
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Welcome to the table, friend!
This is where we gather and hang out. I'd love for you to pull up a chair and jump right into the conversation. Or simply say 'hello.'
l'll be dropping in to visit you sometime soon ...
Linda