Silence Does Not Permit

1 Corinthians 2:11 2 Samuel 7 Leviticus 10:1 1 Samuel 15:22

Birth of Christ

• No date

• Mild Climate

• Wise Men

• Wise men visit well after shepherds

• Shepherds bring no gifts

• No command

• December 25th

• Winter time

• Three wise men

• Wise men there at the same time

• Shepherds bring gifts

• Celebrate as worship

History 354 AD, Liberius (Bishop of Rome) ordered Dec. 25th

be observed; possibly in answer to a Roman celebration to the Sun-god known as Natalis Invicti

Nicholas, Bishop of Asia Minor in 4th cent. who gave gifts to children; died Dec. 6 and was declared a saint. The celebration of “Saint Nick’s” death involved exchanging gifts.

Also in ancient times trees were used in the celebration of the Winter Solstice

Over time all of these things blended into what is celebrated as Christmas, but have no biblical basis

Consider the Lord’s Supper

We know when ordained We know the elements involved We know when to observe We know why to observe We know the manner to observe

Jeroboam – 1 Kings 12:33

The day was different The focus was different This came from man and not

from God

Christ’s Birth is Wonderful

It was miraculous It was the fulfillment of prophecy Angels praised God Deity had become flesh

Man has shown his disregard for that which God did command, and has added a celebration which is man’s invention - supposedly with the intent of pleasing and honoring God.

As far as establishing a religious celebration, the created has no right or authority to dictate to the Creator what is acceptable.