Steve Irons
Because of its supposed pagan origins, the Assembly did not celebrate Christmas. Here is the Assembly pamphlet on the subject written by Timothy Geftakys. The view Tim presents is the standard Plymouth Brethren teaching.
This pamphlet uses a passage in Jeremiah in a way that is common in the
Assembly--there is no careful exegesis of the entire passage in context.
Specific verses
are chosen because they contain language that can be used to support a
preconceived idea. Jeremiah was describing a common pagan practice of
his time--the carving and adorning of a pagan idol, much
like a tiki god.
Timothy's application of Galatians 4 to the celebration of Christmas is mistaken. Paul is talking about the struggle of the Galatians with works-based faith, and their reliance on keeping Jewish holy days as part of those works. If the first century church had been celebrating Christ's incarnation, the Apostle Paul would probably have agreed with it. His entire ministry focused on Christ.
Dave S. directs us to an article by Gene Edward Veith in World Magazine which gives some historical facts that clarify the issue and point to a different conclusion.
Copyright © 2003-2007 Margaret M. Irons
Pages on this site may not be framed.