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Theology => Debate => Topic started by: Royo on June 25, 2007, 04:12:24 AM



Title: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: Royo on June 25, 2007, 04:12:24 AM
This may well have been discussed already over the years, but I would like to see what others think.

I have a writing called JESUS OR SANTA.
In it, I say that Satan created santa and the Easter bunny to take away from what these holy days really stand for. And I state that no Christian should teach their child that santa is real, for first, they are lying to their child...(thou shalt not lie)...and they are perpetuating the lie that satan put forth to deceive people....but you would be surprised how many tell me that it is no big deal.

So, what think you all about this?

God bless you all.....Roy.


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: Shammu on June 25, 2007, 04:49:17 AM
Santa may rock, but Jesus is the Rock. 

Although Santa Claus was originally based upon the Christian figure of Saint Nicholas of Myra, a patron saint of children, today Santa Claus is wholly secular.

My kids, now grown adults know the story of santa.  I believe that parents need to use their own judgment in deciding whether or not to include Santa during the holidays, but here are some things to consider.......  Children who believe that the gifts they receive Christmas morning are from a magical man with unending resources are less likely to appreciate what they have been given, and the sacrifices their parents make in providing them.  Greed and materialism can overshadow the holiday season, which is meant to be about giving, loving, and worshiping God.  Children whose parents are on a tight budget may feel that they have been overlooked by Santa, or even worse, deemed one of the "bad" boys or girls.

An even more troubling aspect of telling our children that Santa comes down the chimney each year to leave their gifts is that it is, obviously, a out and out lie.  We live in a society that believes that lying for the "right" reason is acceptable.  As long as it doesn't hurt anyone, it is not a problem.  This is contrary to what the Bible tells us. Scriptures says.... 1 Peter 3:10 For let him who wants to enjoy life and see good days [good--whether apparent or not] keep his tongue free from evil and his lips from guile (treachery, deceit).  Of course, telling our children that Santa is real is not a malicious deception, but it is  nevertheless, a lie.


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: David_james on June 25, 2007, 09:08:20 AM
I agree but on the same coin, how do you them? If one isn't careful, you could convince them God isn't real.


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: Soldier4Christ on June 25, 2007, 09:42:49 AM
This extends to far more than just santa and the easter bunny. Our children are taught about mythical characters of all sorts in the public schools and in the media. God has been placed in this category by them also, if not directly so then indirectly even by well meaning people. Children lump them together and we end up with very confused children being unbelievers.

This subject goes well with a thread I posted here:

http://forums.christiansunite.com/index.php?topic=17724.0

It is our duty to insure that we teach our children the truth, to lead them to Christ not away from Him.



Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: Royo on June 26, 2007, 12:25:35 AM
Thank you for the link Pastor....I have read it, and replied to it...
God bless you.


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: G_G_PRINCESS on June 29, 2007, 07:17:45 PM
 :-*I think it is fine ot make believe and pretend that Santa is real as long as everyone knows the truth.  In my house we tell the true story os Santa Clause, but we also set out the milk and cookies as well.  We all know that there is no such thing as flying reindeer, but we set out carrots for the anyways.  It is good to have such things taht kids can believe in and have fun with as long as you are careful with how you present it to them.   ;)


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: ravenloche on July 14, 2007, 08:52:32 PM
Greetings  Royo in the wonderful name of our savior:

The question you asked is one that has been debated in our family many times.
What never fails to amaze me, is that someone will always defend the story of
Satan's Claws, oops, that was santa clause.

This is the way I explained my stance to my wife:

Now son remember it is always best to tell me the truth, did I tell you about a
fat little guy in a red suit that brings you toys?

Remember son if you tell the truth things will always be better, did I tell you
about a rabbit that lays chocolate eggs?

We teach our children much more of how we believe, and how much we
believe in our proffession by what we do.
Too many parents, and too many christians are still in the do what I say, not
what I do mode. Say amen or oh me people.

If I teach my child to tell the truth in all situations, and then turn around and
tell him to believe a lie, what do I really teach him? Our children that Jesus
has entrusted us to nurture, and teach will learn far more quickly by our
example than our words.

Brother E.V.Hill said it so well:   "Preach the gospel every day, and if you have
to, use words!"

"Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free. "

We as christians spend so much time debating useless topics, or rehashing
milk, or fighting each other that we no longer have time to fight our true
enemy! I am sure that this brings him great pleasure.

We wonder why there is no power in our prayers today? We wonder why
so few are coming to the alters? We need again to find our first love, that
all consuming zeal to tell everyone about Jesus, just as someone once told
us!

Let us press on to the meat of the word, and lay aside the milk, Let us grow
in power, true power, and show a world that is waiting for the manifestation
of the son's of God just who we are.

And most importantly, let us teach our children about our home town, and
not the doctrines of this world!

Yours in Yeshua:

ravenloche













Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: Jon-Marc on July 27, 2007, 12:08:43 PM
I never encouraged my children to believe in Santa and never took them to see the store ones. I always let them know that their presents came from their parents. I guess I was a little selfish and didn't like someone else getting the credit.

I heard a story about a boy who upon learning that Santa wasn't real and that his parents had lied to him said, "And now, what about this Jesus story?" His parents had lied to him about Santa, and now he questioned if Jesus was real. By the way, how many have noticed the similarity between the name "Santa" and the name "Satan"? Just a coincidence as I've been told? Personally I don't think so.


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: David_james on July 27, 2007, 02:58:32 PM
I heard a story about a boy who upon learning that Santa wasn't real and that his parents had lied to him said, "And now, what about this Jesus story?" His parents had lied to him about Santa, and now he questioned if Jesus was real.
That is a very good point. It is very hard because it can go either way.
And that santa/satan thing is dumb. You can arrange alot of words and get things like that. Example: God/dog, live/evil


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: Chaplain Bob on August 02, 2007, 08:36:18 PM
Before you get all worked up about this you need to understand that neither Christmas nor Easter are Biblically endorsed "holy days".  Jesus never told us to celebrate His birth or His resurrection.  They were created by man as part of the Christian religion created by man (not Jesus) with all its traditions, doctrine, dogma, rules and regulations apparently because man needed something more tangible than an invisible God.  So little wonder that the days are perverted by man.  Basically I see it as a non-issue and suggest that at those times of the year we share the love of God with people rather than belly-ache about people destroying our "holy days".


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: angel on August 03, 2007, 04:28:07 PM
i know that some will disagree with me here but i use easter as a way to explain life to my children.

i recently moved to doncaster and as a result i had to leave my lifestock behind.  i had poultry of different types and rabbits as well.  my boys learned that when it comes to birds the egg is the beginning of life,  it is round and has no start or end thus the circle of life has a way of never ending.  my boys saw the eggs from the first day of being laid to the day they hatched out and quite often we had our first chicks on or just before good friday.  we would also have baby rabbits at easter as well. my boys learned that life was precious and i never kept the death of the young from them

both my boys have their own bibles, aged 6 and 8 now, and one day out of the blue my eldest asked if he could talk to me about the bible which i had no problem with.

he told me that when jesus was born it was like the hen laying the egg and hatching it, and when it died it was ok as it meant that it was gone for a reason and that the ones left behind had a good chance of being saved.

for a child who was 6 at the time do you think i have been leading him the right way? he is 8 now. not once did he want to sit down and read the bible with me, instead he chose to read it at bedtime till lights out time and interprete it himself


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: Maryjane on August 03, 2007, 04:51:19 PM
It was wonderful to live in a time where it was innocent and holidays were special because it was a time for family and friends...but more so...I remember no matter what day Christmas fell on...the church had a service and people would go to church in the morning and after church..would be with family open presents...Santa at that time was not a debate because christians did not put him above Jesus nor did America at the time...As a matter of fact...nativitys graced every court house...but..with what men believe to be wisdom, made holidays a big issue to appease those who do not believe in God..the politicians looking for votes that many are responsible for taking God out of this country...If the people only knew...We may never know the exact day Jesus was born...but we know he was...and we may not know the exact day he was crucified...but he was...and we do not know the time he will return but he will...and the reason I know this is true is because His word says so...and that means we do not have to consider any debate over a holiday...we have christmas and easter everyday...for the Lord is with us..


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: nChrist on August 03, 2007, 07:46:54 PM
Amen Maryjane,

My family celebrates JESUS CHRIST every day, and we always will. We also do some special and beautiful things with our family and church in holiday seasons. GOD is the honored host, is with us, and HE would approve of what we do. Even this is debated by many Christians these days, but our special times are little more than worship and fellowship. So, we have nothing to be ashamed of and will continue. Some criticize any celebration, regardless of what is done and how it is done. We really don't care and will continue. Others are welcome to avoid these days completely if they wish, but we will use them for worship and to honor GOD. In reality, this should be every day for Christians, not just several days per year or one day a week. We all have much to give thanks for. I've probably seen every side of this issue hotly contested, and it's even a matter of division for many Christians, regardless of what's done or not done. This is really sad.

Love In Christ,
Tom

(http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i160/tlr10/357/rom10_3.jpg)


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: Maryjane on August 03, 2007, 07:52:59 PM
Amen Tom...Those who do not know have no idea words they say are emtied in the wind...but God's Word is forevr and what He said He will do...We look up to the coming of God's love sent to us..who was crucified and rose again and he is coming again...Praise God..every day is closer to seeing our Savior face to face..


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: Faithin1 on August 05, 2007, 05:37:12 PM
It was wonderful to live in a time where it was innocent and holidays were special because it was a time for family and friends...but more so...I remember no matter what day Christmas fell on...the church had a service and people would go to church in the morning and after church..would be with family open presents...Santa at that time was not a debate because christians did not put him above Jesus nor did America at the time...As a matter of fact...nativitys graced every court house...but..with what men believe to be wisdom, made holidays a big issue to appease those who do not believe in God..the politicians looking for votes that many are responsible for taking God out of this country...If the people only knew...We may never know the exact day Jesus was born...but we know he was...and we may not know the exact day he was crucified...but he was...and we do not know the time he will return but he will...and the reason I know this is true is because His word says so...and that means we do not have to consider any debate over a holiday...we have christmas and easter everyday...for the Lord is with us..

Amen, Sister!  As a child, I anxiously awaited Santa and the wonderful toys I would receive.  However, first and foremost, Christmas was a special day to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  It was also a wonderful day to celebrate with family and friends. My older brother and I were always involved in Christmas programs at church, and the 'real' purpose of the day was always emphasized in my family.  When I accidentally discovered the reality of the source of the toys, I was initially disappointed, but took it in stride. 

I also believed in the Easter bunny.  However, as with Christmas, my family always recognized Easter as a special day to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and His wonderful gift of salvation.  Likewise, my older brother and I were always involved in special Easter programs at church, and Jesus was never minimized for Easter candy. 

After I knew the truth, I still enjoyed seeing the excited faces of my two younger brothers as they received their toys on Christmas.  I think most children know the truth by the time they are 8.

I place Santa and the Easter Bunny into the same category as the Tooth Fairy.  I consider these as merely innocent childhood experiences.  I repeated the same with my son, always ensuring he understood the importance of Christmas and Easter as special holy days to celebrate the birth and resurrection of Jesus Christ. 

Unfortunately, the world has corrupted these special days, and the true purpose of Christmas and Easter have been subverted by commercial greed.  I still find no harm in allowing children to have these beliefs, as long as the emphasis is placed on Jesus. 

Early childhood is so brief.  I simply believe in allowing kids to enjoy that stage of life as a carefree and fun time.  Of course, as a parent my primary responsibility is to ensure my child has a strong foundation in Jesus, and that the Lord is acknowledged and worshipped on a daily basis. 







Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: Maryjane on August 06, 2007, 12:28:17 AM
When i think of christmas...I think about how excited I was to be in the church program...and as for Santa...My older brother and I had a great time sneaking out of bed and watching our parents wrap, put toys together and of course..they played with them before we did...It has always been family and God blessed us with a wonderful family and gave us the most wonderful memories of growing up...We got spankings but I thank God for those spankings..all nine of us have never been in trouble and it is because of parents that raised us in a christian home and our values we received never left us...


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: Chaplain Bob on September 07, 2007, 12:29:49 AM
This may well have been discussed already over the years, but I would like to see what others think.

I have a writing called JESUS OR SANTA.
In it, I say that Satan created santa and the Easter bunny to take away from what these holy days really stand for. And I state that no Christian should teach their child that santa is real, for first, they are lying to their child...(thou shalt not lie)...and they are perpetuating the lie that satan put forth to deceive people....but you would be surprised how many tell me that it is no big deal.

So, what think you all about this?

God bless you all.....Roy.

Neither Christmas nor Easter are Biblically mandated "holy days".  Jesus never told us to celebrate His birth or resurrection.  They are nothing more than Christian religion traditions created by man.   Little wonder they are subject to perversion.   Those who celebrate either or those who include the image of Santa or the Easter Bunny as part of their celebration are not in violation of any Biblical principle.  Rather than accusing people of worshipping those images (and in turn Satan) we who claim to be followers of Jesus Christ would better spend our time sharing with other why we celebrate those days.


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: nChrist on September 07, 2007, 02:02:07 AM
Neither Christmas nor Easter are Biblically mandated "holy days".  Jesus never told us to celebrate His birth or resurrection.  They are nothing more than Christian religion traditions created by man.   Little wonder they are subject to perversion.   Those who celebrate either or those who include the image of Santa or the Easter Bunny as part of their celebration are not in violation of any Biblical principle.  Rather than accusing people of worshipping those images (and in turn Satan) we who claim to be followers of Jesus Christ would better spend our time sharing with other why we celebrate those days.

Hello Chaplain Bob,

It's great to hear from you and I hope that things are going well for you and your family.

I celebrate JESUS CHRIST every day - multiple times every day, and I'm most happy to tell everyone why. I might even give you a cup of coffee and a piece of cake if you're willing to listen.   ;)

Bluntly, JESUS CHRIST is the core of my life, and HE is the LORD over my life. My faith, trust, HOPE, and STRENGTH are in HIM. ALL days of the year belong to HIM, and I give Thanks every day that HE rescued me and I belong to HIM 365/24/7 until HE comes to take me HOME. I also celebrate HIM before, during, and after Christmas and Easter. I have a great time in the LORD on those days and nothing to be ashamed of. As far as I'm concerned, every day is Christmas and Easter.

You are right that Christians have better things to do than judge and criticize other Christians about celebrating Christmas and Easter. I will specifically celebrate both, and it won't be anyone's business but mine and GOD'S. For those who are determined to butt into my business, I'll hide their Easter eggs for them and holler Merry Christmas while they look for them just for the first year. If it continues the next year, they get full custody of bunnies, reindeer, the tooth fairy, Jack Frost, and an unknown number of angry elves. For those who are obsessed and possessed with this issue, the elves will be intoxicated and in the habit of playing Lawrence Welk records LOUDLY 24/7 with a bubble machine going full blast.    ;D   ;D

ALL days are HIS, including this one. This is simply another day that the LORD has made - let us be glad and rejoice in it. I had a great Day in the LORD today, and I give thanks for it. Every day is SON-DAY - HAPPY SON-DAY!


Love In Christ,
Tom

KEEP LOOKING UP!!


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: Soldier4Christ on September 07, 2007, 01:18:08 PM
Easter is mentioned in some English versions of the Bible. Others in the same verse call it the passover or the pasch (a middle English word meaning passover). The word Easter was used in the early middle ages to denote a pagan holiday. Why would Christians use a pagan word in the Bible? It is said that it was used in order to attempt to get pagans to accept the celebration or Mass of the resurrection, a compromise if you will. There is actually much, much more than that to it. The word Easter means "to shine forth" or as the Etymology Dictionary says "to shine (especially of the dawn)". It is the celebration of the rising (resurrection) of Jesus Christ. An anomaly between the rising of the sun and the rising of the Son.



Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: daniel1212av on September 13, 2007, 07:20:15 PM
Neither Christmas nor Easter are Biblically mandated "holy days".  Jesus never told us to celebrate His birth or resurrection.  They are nothing more than Christian religion traditions created by man.   Little wonder they are subject to perversion.   Those who celebrate either or those who include the image of Santa or the Easter Bunny as part of their celebration are not in violation of any Biblical principle.  Rather than accusing people of worshipping those images (and in turn Satan) we who claim to be followers of Jesus Christ would better spend our time sharing with other why we celebrate those days.

i just stumbled upon this topic, but I take a more "radical" stance, as a long time ago, without anyone influencing me that i can remember, the Lord spoke to me (in response it my praying whether i should celebrate it)  that Christmas was a "charade." I was not even sure what the word meant, but i came to see that not only was it a birthday party in His name that He was not invited to (and that would reject Him), but that the whole thing was a tree that His Father had not planted.

And that as born again new creatures in Christ, who are set free to walk in newness of life (Rm. 6:4) and not the traditions of men, we are not to bow down to a yearly to a tradition instituted by a religious system that sought to accommodate pagan elements into it's worship. It seems rather incongruous that most every born again pastor has (or should have) the Lord's leading on what to preach every other months of the year, but once December comes most must preach an entire month on Christmas themes (plus wind down the net one), when the early church knew no such thing.

I am sure many have heard arguments, but briefly mine is that it is contrary to the principal of the New covenant to fall into the practice of annual liturgical observance of "days, months, times and years" (Gal. 4:10) which Paul chastened the Galatians for so doing.  The only day which the Holy Spirit records as a specific day of purely Christian meeting is the first day of the week (Jn. 20:19; Acts 20:7; 1Cor. 16:2).  Under the New covenant, the church is to be led of the Spirit, within and according to the boundaries and precepts and principals of Scripture. Transitional attempts to even accommodate Jewish observances did not work well (Acts 21), and are warned against (Col. 2:16).

It is contrary to the O.T. transcendent moral precept  to "Christianize" distinctively pagan worship.  While we may use things as the names of the days of the week as mere reference points , and may adapt to the culture in amoral things such as food, or clothing that is similarly modest, we are not to Christianize practices or observances that are distinctively pagan and non-Biblical. The law of Moses forbade Israel to plant a grove of any trees near unto the altar of the LORD (Dt. 16:21);  cf. 1Kg. 15:13; 16:33; 2kg. 17:16; 21:2),  and were told to tear down pagan high places (Num. 33:52),  as such had become  places setting up idols and or other pagan idolatrous worship (Num. 21:28; 22:41).  And when Israel backslide they fell into such idolatrous worship thereby (2Kg. 17:9-11).

Other times they turned such pagan places into venues for Jehovahistic worship (1Kg. 22:43; 2Kg. 2:3; 14:4; 15:4, 35). This helped to keep them alive until Israel backslide again (2Kg. 16:4). 2kg. 23:19, 20). "So they feared the LORD, and made unto themselves of the lowest of them priests of the high places, which sacrificed for them in the houses of the high places." (2 Kg. 17:32). 

Other kings teared them down (2Kg. 18:4;  23:19, 200, which only an exceedingly wicked men as Manasseh would restore to their pagan purpose.  (2Kg. 21:20).

I think the lesson is that God needs no help from paganism (while sometime they adopted things from Judaism, or did according to the law written in the hearts in doing likewise), and as in the case of a new creation (2Cor. 5:17). God does not want us to reform the old, but to crucify it. And in the case of "Christianizing" distinctively pagan practices, we to let a practice as Saturnalia turned Christmas die it's natural death, rather than trying to pump life back into an annual "tree" not planted by God, and replace is by worship by the Spirit.

This position does not infer that that nothing good is in the Christmas celebration, for whatever Biblical content is placed in such has power, nor that we are not free to sometimes Biblically (not ritually) celebrate the incarnation of His Son, like any other Biblical event we may choose, nor that those who choose not to submit to the annual rite are more spiritual in heart, as i certainly do not claim that (nor that choosing freedom from such ritualism is a form of legalism, as the basic social requirement to do so fits the Biblical definition of such: Mk. 7:7). Rather, that if we seek to march foreword back into Biblical Christianity, it mainly exhorts that we need not to bow down to a set feast that has no Biblical precedent as a yearly tradition (in Dec. no less), and which thus used to be banned by England and the Puritans, etc, and they should not seek to Christianize paganism, but worship God in Spirit as a He leads, and in truth, consistent with it's principals and precepts. 
   
Sorry for taking so much space.


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: Soldier4Christ on September 13, 2007, 07:52:07 PM
Hi daniel1212av,

We must keep in mind that Paul's statements in Gal 4:10 was in regard to individuals that were attempting to make it a requirement to observe those holidays thereby removing the liberty that Christians have so graciously been given by our Lord and Saviour. Just like the majority of what Galatians is all about we are not required by to be under such a law any longer. Col 2:16 is again speaking of those that tried to re-institute those days as a requirement. These are not to say that we can't celebrate Christ's birth on those days. It is saying that we are not to place such ordinances (as a law) of which Christians must observe as a requirement of salvation (works).



Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: ibTina on September 14, 2007, 09:46:12 AM
Quote
a tree that His Father had not planted

I love this statement .. AMEN!


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: daniel1212av on September 15, 2007, 07:58:36 AM
Thanks for your comment Roger.

> Gal 4:10 was in regard to individuals that were attempting to make it a requirement to observe those holidays thereby removing the liberty that Christians have so graciously been given by our Lord and Saviour.<

I am aware that that was the primary issue, but the apostle's rebuke is also one that that links the ritual observance of annual Jewish days, months, etc. with going back under the law, and is contrary to the life of faith, as such ritual observances are contrary to the nature of the New Covenant.

Col. 2:16 directly contrasts this, insofar as Jewish observances were concerned, as we are no longer to look at the shadow for life, but at the body that made them. And overall, as those who are born of the Spirit are to be moved by Him (Jn. 3-7), so we do not see the N.T. church observing any annual days except the first day of the week, and the failed experiment of Acts 21 - which testifies to the necessity of Galatians. The only event we are commanded to formally commemorate is Jesus death (1Cor. 11). And while the N.T. principal of being led by the Spirit does not lend itself to liturgical seasons invented by an institutionalized system, it does not forbid recognition of the Lord's birth as the Lord may lead (like that of preaching on any other events). But consistent with the moral precept of separation, the primitive church certainly did not follow the "wisdom of Rome" in amalgamating distinctly pagan celebrations into it's worship, but as new creatures in Christ the they celebrated Christ's "birth" in saved souls.

In addition,  "in regard to individuals that were attempting to make it a requirement to observe those holidays thereby removing the liberty that Christians have so graciously been given by our Lord and Saviour", such a "requirement" is close to what Christians has become. Rather than the yearly Christmas celebration being a manifestation of Christian liberty, most any church member who forgoes the yearly observance of Christmas is usually treated as a scrooge and a legalist, and a minister in a church that does not follow this relatively late tradition of Christ-mass is likely to be censured or even lose his position - in the name of unity! So we see how powerful this non-Biblical tradition has become. And teaching for doctrines the commandments of men is legalism.

On the other hand, and to be fair, often those who are against Christmas (and usually i do not make it an issue unless someone else makes it one in response to my desire for liberty and truth), are those who are looking for something to justify their rebellion against authority. Thus they seek to find some legitimate fault in the established church, as well as perceived ones, to justify themselves. This is a whole other thread. yet this does not justify having faults, nor does it relegate those who chose N.T. truth and holy liberty over static liturgy as unholy rebels, and history testifies to the nobility of those who sought to avoid the accumulated corruptions of Rome, in seeking a more Biblical model.

Charles Haddon Spurgeon (Dec. 24, 1871):

We have no superstitious regard for times and seasons. Certainly we do not believe in the present ecclesiastical arrangement called Christmas . . . because we find no Scriptural warrant whatever for observing any day as the birthday of the Saviour; and consequently, its observance is a superstition, because [it's] not of divine authority
 
When it can be proved that the observance of Christmas, Whitsuntide, and other Popish festivals was ever instituted by a divine statute, we also will attend to them, but not till then. It is as much our duty to reject the traditions of men, as to observe the ordinances of the Lord. We ask concerning every rite and rubric, "Is this a law of the God of Jacob?" and if it be not clearly so, it is of no authority with us, who walk in Christian liberty. (from Charles Spurgeon's Treasury of David on Psalm 81:4.)



Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: Pilgrim on September 19, 2007, 01:14:42 PM
Rather, that if we seek to march foreword back into Biblical Christianity, it mainly exhorts that we need not to bow down to a set feast that has no Biblical precedent as a yearly tradition (in Dec. no less), and which thus used to be banned by England and the Puritans, etc, and they should not seek to Christianize paganism, but worship God in Spirit as a He leads, and in truth, consistent with it's principals and precepts. 
   
Sorry for taking so much space.

Amen Daniel,

You may be interested in these articles.

"Truth" http://www.nlbchapel.org/truth.htm

"Christ-mass" http://www.nlbchapel.org/Christmass.htm

"THE CHRISTMAS JESUS CAME TO MY HOUSE" http://www.nlbchapel.org/Christmashome.htm

God bless,
Pilgrim


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: Maryjane on September 21, 2007, 01:27:06 AM
We have christmas and easter everyday awaiting the final event when we will be in the presence of the Lord..

The gospel stands true..God so loved us that He sent His Son Jesus that His only Son would come down to this earth and die a cruel death that we deserve yet by God's mercy He gave us grace through our Lord Jesus Christ..He rose from the grave to prove every word is true..and He keeps His promises and His promise is thatHe will return again..It has nothing to do with men's idea of holidays for the holidays do not belong to the Lord what belongs to the Lord is those who trust Him and know His word is true..It is very very hard to think of Santa or a bunny when our eternity does not depend on such..I do not know the full origin of the holidays..but at one time the holidays brought families together to celebrate the birth and the ressurection of Jesus..but Jesus has been taken out of it as this world has grown cold and our country has left it's first love and replaced it with what we see in our world today...a lack of holiness and the fear of God who one day we will all stand before and give account...Many will want to hide behind a tree in that day and baskets will not be large enough to hold the tears of those who never knew Him...


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: Jon-Marc on September 21, 2007, 02:27:54 AM
Toys when I was a child were rare, and presents were generally clothes. When I was old enough I did all the wrapping of presents for everyone but myself. Of course, I knew what I was getting since all the guys got the same thing--socks, T shirts and gloves for winter. Occasionally, I would get a simple toy that I cherished. Birthdays were the same--more clothes. That's why Christmas and birthdays have never had much meaning for me.

I don't remember ever believing in a fat, jolly man in a red suit. We rarely had a chimney for him to come down anyway. Besides, I knew that what I got came from my parents. I never encouraged my daughters to believe in santa.


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: ludwig on September 25, 2007, 12:40:40 PM
dear everybody
this innocent issue of Jesus or Santa stirs up more serious questions than we are aware of.
Jesus is the Way the Truth and the Life
this is the central piece
anything measured against that are lies and should not be encouraged
children are very impressionable
wrong imprints on them and irreparable damage is done to their intellect and to their emotional life
we also assume the things we do to the children are right and never wrong
this or that has been done before so it can't be wrong
i remember a professor said just because something has been done before doen't make it right and just because
something has not been done before doesn't make it wrong.  HOW TRUE!
not just on Santa but everything else that has to do with children we have to do a rethink.


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: mzipodi on September 26, 2007, 09:16:28 AM
Hey I know that when it comes to what people think about what is of the devil anb what not, people get confused but the bible talks about a way that seems right in the eyes of man but a sin in the eyes of God the Father.So anyone must think before deciding what to do.
For we know the plans of the devil and that the enemy comes to destroy. ;D


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: ludwig on November 01, 2007, 12:41:37 AM
hi everybody i think jesus and santa cannot occupy the same place.  christmas  is many things for many people but for christians there is only one thing and that is jesus christ.  no one can take that place not even santa claus.  so as not to confuse the kids emphasise christmas as the day to remember the birth of CHRIST.


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: ollie on November 02, 2007, 09:19:48 PM
This may well have been discussed already over the years, but I would like to see what others think.

I have a writing called JESUS OR SANTA.
In it, I say that Satan created santa and the Easter bunny to take away from what these holy days really stand for. And I state that no Christian should teach their child that santa is real, for first, they are lying to their child...(thou shalt not lie)...and they are perpetuating the lie that satan put forth to deceive people....but you would be surprised how many tell me that it is no big deal.

So, what think you all about this?

God bless you all.....Roy.
Jesus at the cross, His death , burial, resurrection and ascension not at the manger.

We should celebrate the Christ for what he is, our saviour, our King, in Heaven with all power and not the physical birth that brought Him on the road to fulfilling all in all.

ollie



Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: kainos_Ktisis on December 21, 2008, 11:24:19 AM
Amen Daniel,

You may be interested in these articles.

"Truth" http://www.nlbchapel.org/truth.htm

"Christ-mass" http://www.nlbchapel.org/Christmass.htm

"THE CHRISTMAS JESUS CAME TO MY HOUSE" http://www.nlbchapel.org/Christmashome.htm

God bless,
Pilgrim





Amen to you Pilgrim and what a truth you speak of God's word.
love and peace in Christ
kainos_ktisis


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: Soldier4Christ on December 21, 2008, 11:38:42 AM
Hello kainos_Ktisis,

Welcome to Christians Unite forums. I do hope that you will enjoy your time here.



Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: kainos_Ktisis on December 21, 2008, 02:46:55 PM
Thank you Pastor Roger.

I am enjoying this forum already ,reading many many posts and testing the spirit of it. I do not go to a physical church because I find too much materialism and lack of faith with many dead people that look alive that appear there for what ever reason. And I know christian fellowship is necessary as states the word of God.
 I have previously been on other forums and have left many due to the spirit of them, some of them starting out well and eventually they end up being pulled in different directions, arguing mostly about what they think is right and what their interpretation of scriptures may be etc........I'm sure you know what other forums are like, but this forum is not like the others. Thank you for the welcome.

peace and love
kainos_ktisis


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: Soldier4Christ on December 21, 2008, 03:23:28 PM
too much materialism and lack of faith with many dead people that look alive that appear there for what ever reason.

Is this not the case with this entire world? Yes, many do go to church for all the wrong reasons yet others do not go to church for all of the wrong reasons. Jesus is the reason not just for the season but in all things that we do and say.

Let the light shine through us for all others to see.



Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: nChrist on December 21, 2008, 06:58:53 PM
Hello Kainos Ktisis,

WELCOME!

(http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i160/tlr10/357/welcome.gif)

I sincerely hope that you enjoy Christians Unite, and I look forward to having fellowship with you.

It sounds like you need to try a different church. Many local assemblies still worship and honor GOD. If you have work that causes you to move frequently, finding a good local assembly to attend is a part of every move. It sometimes requires considerable effort, but it's worth it. Some are unable to attend because of health or other reasons, but there are other ways to gather - this forum being one of them. Fellowship with other Christians is encouraging, strengthening, and uplifting. 100% agreement in all matters isn't necessary to enjoy the benefit of gathering. Being IN CHRIST and belonging to HIM is what makes the difference. This difference can and should apply to all things in this short life with the sure knowledge that this world isn't our HOME. Where two or more gather in HIS NAME, HE is with them.

Love In Christ,
Tom

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Luke 2:4-20 KJV  And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)  5  To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.  6  And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.  7  And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.  8  And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.  9  And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.  10  And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.  11  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.  12  And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.  13  And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,  14  Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.  15  And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.  16  And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.  17  And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.  18  And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.  19  But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.  20  And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.


Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable GIFT, Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour Forever!

(http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i160/tlr10/speci/Speci030.gif)


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: kainos_Ktisis on December 21, 2008, 08:17:13 PM
Thank you.

I indeed love fellowship, the reason I have joined this forum.

Thank you Pastor Roger and blackeyedpeas for your kind words.


peace and love
kainos_ktisis


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: Shammu on December 21, 2008, 11:34:17 PM
Hello Kainos Ktisis,welcome to Christians Unite forum.


Title: Re: JESUS OR SANTA
Post by: kainos_Ktisis on December 22, 2008, 12:24:34 AM
Thank you DreamWeaver and may God Bless You



peace and love
kainos_ktisis