Is Jesus Really the Reason for the Season?

Now there was about this time Jesus, a wise man, if it be lawful to call him a man, for he was a doer of wonderful works, a teacher of such men as receive the truth with pleasure. He drew over to him both many of the Jews and many of the Gentiles. (Antiquities 18.3.3)

If people would investigate non-religious history, they will probably discover that Jesus was not born in December at all. The timing of the concurrent Roman Census (did not happen in December), as well as “shepherds tending their flocks by night” indicate that it was not the deep, dark depths of winter when the Star of Bethlehem appeared in the night sky.

Regardless of human error and manipulation in pinning down the exact date of birth, clearly, Jesus was born and was inarguably among the most dynamic, articulate speakers of all time. Worthy of celebration? Absolutely! However, the first recorded date of Christmas being celebrated on December 25 was in 336; during the time of the first Christian Roman Emperor named Constantine. A few years later, Pope Julius I officially declared that the birth of Jesus would always be celebrated on the date. But, is Jesus the reason for the season?

Lights, trees, gifts, candy canes, stockings, and even fun-loving Santa are all wonderful attributes of this special season. Although they have been deemed paganist by many, they add seasoning to this time of year that makes it more beautiful. Pagan does not mean devil-worshiping, it simply means non-Christian or pre-Christian, to be more exact.

Jesus died over 2000 years ago, yet the story of his life remains a best seller. What is undeniable to the honest historian is that this one man’s life, teaching, and symbolic acts eventually created a social and cultural revolution that reverberated far beyond Palestine and altered almost every institution on earth — and is still felt today. His birth is being celebrated worldwide as Christmas; but, is he the reason for the season?

Most Christians would answer with an unequivocal yes! The truth is, early on, Christians did not celebrate Christ’s birth; it was His death and resurrection that was supremely important. The Bible explains the reason for Christ’s birth is to seek and save those who are lost. The only method of “saving” was for him to defeat death and allow his blood to be deemed the ultimate sacrifice and redeeming power for humanity.

There is really one primary reason, one primary plan, and one primary purpose. Jesus came to suffer and die. Bethlehem only happened so Calvary could happen. Jesus was born to die.

So, is Jesus truly the reason for the season? No! Humanity is the reason. Jesus was born, he died and was resurrected – that is what happened. However, the “why” or reason would be to bridge the sin-gap between God and mankind. He came with one thought on his mind…us!! We are the reason for the season.

Opinion by Cherese Jackson (Virginia)

Source:

All About His Story: Josephus

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