One way we can joyfully celebrate the birth of Christ is through feasting. It may seem an odd way to worship; through eating, but it has been a part of Christian heritage for thousands of years.

In the Old Testament, we see the Israelites celebrating many feasts. From the Passover to Purim to the feasts of unleavened bread; we know that the Israelites loved to gather and have big, lavish, over-the-top meals.

These feasts had a purpose, though. They were not just eating for eating’s sake. They were doing so to celebrate the goodness of God. From their Exodus as slaves in Egypt to escaping being killed by Haman and the Persians in the book of Esther, God’s protection and abundance gave them a reason to celebrate.

When we think about honoring God, we often consider it in the more significant actions. We don’t necessarily think about something simple. like eating, even being a way to make Him known and famous. The apostle Paul tells us otherwise, though, in I Corinthians 10:31. He says, “Whether you eat, or drink, or whatsoever you do, do all to the glory of God.” Even what we eat and how we eat can have a purpose in worship.

The question may be, can or should Christians celebrate Christmas through feasting? Some follow what is called the regulatory principle. This principle states that we should only worship God specifically as he commanded. Some, therefore, do not even celebrate Christmas because, they say, it is not commanded in Scripture.

Let’s note that Jesus celebrated a holiday not commanded in Scripture. In John 10:22-23, we see Jesus in Jerusalem for Hanukkah, also known as the Feast of Dedication. While Jesus is there for this celebration, nowhere in the Old Testament does it mention the need to celebrate it like the other feasts mentioned. 

If Jesus can celebrate feasts not commanded in Scripture, so can we. If we can celebrate feasts, we are not commanded to celebrate; I can’t think of a better celebration than one for Christ, our Savior. This feast will prepare us for the most incredible feast, the Marriage Supper of the Lamb, when we join Christ in Heaven one day.

Think About It

Are you planning on feasting this Christmas?

Are you gathering to celebrate the birth of Christ?

In your celebration, do you do it to make God known and famous? We should do so loudly, extravagantly, and joyfully.

Thanks for taking time to read this Maddening Theology post. If you enjoyed this content you can find Pastor Tim’s sermons at www.cornerstoneforestcity.org. You can also join us at 520 Marion St. Browndale, PA 18421 on Sundays at 10 AM. To make following the blog easier you can also register. You can also join us on Facebook at Cornerstone Forest City. Also, don’t forget to download our APP on iTunes  or Googleplay.