What the Bible says about Christmas Trees
Jeremiah 10:1-4
Hear what the Lord says to you, O house of Israel.
This is what the Lord says:
Do not learn the ways of the nations
or be terrified by signs in the sky,
though the nations are terrified by them.
For the customs of the peoples are worthless;
they cut a tree out of the forest,
and a craftsman shapes it with his chisel.
They adorn it with silver and gold;
they fasten it with hammer and nails
so it will not totter.
Actually, those trees you speak of are not representative of the trees people use today as Christmas trees. They were converted into poles similar to the totems that native people use... termed "Asherah poles", objects of veneration and worship. The Christmas trees, today, have their origins from ancient Germanic tradition - no less pagan, however, they are not the objects scripture refer to.
ReplyDeleteAt any rate, their ancient significance has absolutely no meaning to modern-day folk. In fact, much good results from people being (if only temporarily) distracted from themselves and their self-service to think of others and eternal things. Of course, atheists (anti-theists) have nothing whatsoever to look forward to after this life, so they are naturally feeling somewhat left out around this time of year... some finding comfort in spoiling the occasion for others with their whining and griping about how theists are destroying the world that they, themselves, enabled with their own rebellion.
Christmas isn't going away, nor are Christians... ever! They will be here long after the last son of Cain has perished in the eternal fire that shall cleanse the Earth of every trace of sin, forever.
Well, there was a time where there were no Christians. If humans don't destroy themselves and religion is one of the best methods going then there will be a time where there will be no more Christians again.
ReplyDeleteIn fact a case could be made that they are already gone. The Christ of the Bible and the Christians today would have a very difficult time recognizing each other.
Which you essentially agree with regard the ancient significance of a Christmas tree has "absolutely no meaning" to modern day folk. That is a great analogy and for that I thank you.