THE DANGER OF CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS WITHOUT THE CELEBRANT

Title: THE DANGER OF CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS WITHOUT THE CELEBRANT

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Luke 2:7
Supporting Texts: John 1:10-11, Revelation 3:20, Matthew 7:21-23

INTRODUCTION:
Christmas is meant to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the world. Unfortunately, many celebrate Christmas without acknowledging the reason for the season—Jesus Himself. This leads to a misplaced celebration that is devoid of its true essence. This sermon highlights the dangers of celebrating Christmas without the celebrant, Jesus Christ, and the need to refocus our hearts on Him.

1. MISPLACED PRIORITIES IN CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS

a) Focus on Materialism
Many people prioritise gifts, decorations, and feasting over worshipping Christ (Matthew 6:19-21).

b) Secularisation of Christmas
The emphasis on Santa Claus, parties, and entertainment shifts attention away from Jesus (2 Timothy 3:2-5).

c) Ignoring the Message of Salvation
Celebrating Christmas without recognising its purpose—the birth of the Saviour—misses the point (Luke 19:10).

d) Superficial Joy
Without Christ, the joy of Christmas is temporary and shallow (John 15:11).

e) Biblical Example: The innkeeper in Bethlehem made no room for Christ, focusing on other guests (Luke 2:7).

2. CONSEQUENCES OF A CHRIST-LESS CELEBRATION

a) Spiritual Emptiness
A Christmas without Christ leads to a void that nothing else can fill (Ecclesiastes 2:11).

b) Lost Opportunities
Ignoring Christ during Christmas denies people the chance to encounter salvation (Hebrews 2:3).

c) Eternal Consequences
Rejecting Christ during His celebration results in eternal separation from Him (John 3:36).

d) False Security
People may feel satisfied with outward celebrations but remain spiritually bankrupt (Revelation 3:17).

e) Biblical Example: The rich young ruler celebrated his wealth but missed eternal life by rejecting Christ (Matthew 19:16-22).

3. THE IMPORTANCE OF INCLUDING CHRIST IN CHRISTMAS

a) Understanding His Mission
Jesus came to reconcile humanity to God, which is the essence of Christmas (2 Corinthians 5:18-19).

b) Recognising His Lordship
Honour Jesus as the King whose birth brought hope to the world (Philippians 2:9-11).

c) Sharing His Love
Celebrate Christmas by reflecting Christ’s love to others through acts of kindness (1 John 4:7-8).

d) Worshipping Him Wholeheartedly
Just like the wise men, let worship be central to your Christmas celebration (Matthew 2:11).

e) Biblical Example: The shepherds glorified God and shared the good news after meeting Christ (Luke 2:16-20).

4. PRACTICAL WAYS TO KEEP CHRIST AT THE CENTRE OF CHRISTMAS

a) Personal Devotion
Spend time in prayer and Bible study to reflect on Christ’s birth (Psalm 119:105).

b) Family Worship
Incorporate Christ-centred activities like reading the Nativity story and singing hymns (Deuteronomy 6:6-7).

c) Community Outreach
Share the love of Christ with the less privileged during Christmas (Matthew 25:35-40).

d) Evangelism
Use the season as an opportunity to tell others about Jesus (Mark 16:15).

e) Biblical Example: Anna the prophetess devoted her life to worship and proclaimed Christ’s arrival (Luke 2:36-38).

5. MAKING ROOM FOR THE CELEBRANT IN YOUR LIFE

a) Repentance
Turn from sin and accept Jesus as your Saviour (Acts 3:19).

b) Surrender
Allow Jesus to take His rightful place in your heart (Revelation 3:20).

c) Daily Walk
Live a life that glorifies Christ beyond the Christmas season (Galatians 2:20).

d) Faithful Witness
Be a light to others by pointing them to Christ (Matthew 5:14-16).

e) Biblical Example: Zacchaeus welcomed Jesus into his home and life, leading to transformation (Luke 19:5-9).

CONCLUSION:
Celebrating Christmas without Christ is a dangerous misstep that robs the season of its true meaning. Jesus is the reason for Christmas, and it is only by acknowledging Him as the celebrant that we can experience the joy, peace, and salvation He brings. Make room for Christ in your life this Christmas and share His love with others.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to keep Christ at the centre of my Christmas celebration.

2. Father, forgive me for any distractions that have taken my focus off You.

3. Lord, let Your love and light shine through me this Christmas.

4. Father, give me the grace to share the message of Christ with others.

5. Lord, make my life a reflection of Your glory during this season.

6. Father, let Your joy and peace fill my heart and home.

7. Lord, help me to make room for Christ in every area of my life.

8. Father, draw people to Yourself this Christmas season.

9. Lord, let this season bring salvation and transformation to many lives.

10. Father, may my celebration of Christmas glorify Your name.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. I declare that Christ will remain the focus of your Christmas celebration.

2. This season, the love of Christ will radiate in your heart and home.

3. Every distraction that takes your focus off Christ is removed.

4. You will share the good news of Christ boldly and effectively.

5. Your life will reflect the true meaning of Christmas.

6. This Christmas will bring spiritual renewal and revival in your life.

7. The joy and peace of Christ will fill your heart.

8. You will make room for Christ in every area of your life.

9. This season will lead to divine encounters and blessings.

10. Christ will reign supreme in your heart and home throughout this season and beyond.