BGEA: Does the Bible say that it is wrong to have a Christmas tree?

Does the Bible say that it is wrong to have a Christmas tree?

We understand your concerns about the use of the Christmas tree. Some have indicated that this practice is wrong because of the words in Jeremiah 10:1-5. These verses, however, do not apply to Christmas trees, but they do condemn the idolatry practiced in Jeremiah's day. God's people were following the customs of the heathen who cut down trees, shaped the wood into idols, decorated them with silver and gold ornaments, and worshiped them as gods.

It is important that we keep Christ central and our worship of Him unhindered in our observance of Christmas. However, we do not believe it is unbiblical to have a Christmas tree lighted and decorated in the home or the church. It has been suggested that the branches of the tree pointing upward can signify praise to God. The star at the top can represent the star of Bethlehem. Also, the green of the evergreens has been recognized as symbolic of eternal life, God's gift to us through our Lord Jesus Christ.

11 Comments

Lisa says 3.31.2013, 6:58 p.m.

I have had so many people try to preach the word of God to me by taking the words and twisting them for their own purpose. Its refreshing to be taught what it says and understand what the purpose of the scripture. Thank you for clearing this up.

tim says 12.24.2012, 10:28 a.m.

Oh what a Savior is Jesus the Lord

Cody says 12.23.2012, 11:01 p.m.

Whosoever rewards evil for good..Evil shall not part from that house...Don't be heathen's and learn not the way nor give place to the devil...If God said not to do this then why make it ok let's not be heathen's.......

Misty says 12.19.2012, 1:40 p.m.

The Tree represents "Life" - -

Amy says 12.13.2011, 8:10 p.m.

I do not believe that Jeremiah 10: 1-5 mentions the words Christmas tree, seeing that Christ was not born at the time the scripture was written I do not see it possible for it to be referring to a Christmas tree.

Patricia says 12.12.2011, 09:48 a.m.

I think the least of God's worry is whether or not we have a Christmas tree or not in our homes. His concern is whether or not we have Jesus in our hearts. If we have Jesus, then all is well. Keep Jesus as the center of your Christmas.

Ann says 12.2.2011, 02:02 a.m.

There was a time when I was also being accused of having a Christmas tree. I realized however Christmas for me was a celebration of Jesus and He was the one I worshiped and focused on. This undue attention that was being brought to whether having a tree or not having one was just distracting from the main message. Well I decided to put my tree up. During that time I was selling off some stuff and a young man(stranger)came to our home. He spent some time there and then pointing to the tree said, Oh so you celebrate Christmas! and I replied, 'well I actually celebrate Christ" and then I asked him do you know Jesus? this led to us talking about Jesus and before that man left my home he gave his heart to Jesus and today is saved.....Every time I put up my tree now I remember it is about JESUS and the argument is settled!. My tree gave me opportunity to share the good news with someone and so can you!

Richard says 2.1.2011, 2:20 p.m.

Actually, Jeremiah 10:1-5 does refer to Christmas trees. But everyone is entitled to their opinion. Most important is to have 'life and peace' within (Romans 8:6) If you don't feel good to have a Christmas tree that's fine. You can still celebrate Jesus' birth without having a decorated tree in your house. It's best to not argue and insist on your point of view about this but rather respect each other's faith. Amen.

Kerry says 12.11.2010, 8:00 p.m.

I am still concerned about this practice. Can you offer some more insight.

charles e gassett sr says 11.10.2010, 5:02 p.m.

Thanks for this post. I hope this opens alot of eyes and hearts. We worship the Lord.

Alicia says 9.19.2010, 11:24 a.m.

This is so great. : ) Years ago, I used to have a friend who would condemn me for having a Christmas tree in my home because she had mis-interpreted Jeremiah 10:1-5. I think that's why it's important to not single out 1 verse, but to read the verses around it to read it in the right context. I love having a Christmas tree in my home and now, rather than seeing it as something wrong, I see it as a symbol of my Christian faith. The "evergreen" has become a symbol of what God has done through my life by giving me "everlasting" life. : ) Merry (early) Christmas! I can't wait to celebrate this year!