- The Hebrew calendar starts the new year in the spring during the month of Nisan.
- Biblical Feasts point to the new year beginning in the spring.
- Astronomical events related to God’s appointed times occur in the spring.
- There is no commandment in the Bible to celebrate January 1st as the start of the new year.
- The spring new year lines up with key redemption events in Scripture.
- There is debate among Christians about when the real new year is according to the Bible.
The Hebrew Calendar New Year
Most evidence from Scripture points to the new year beginning in spring, not on January 1st as it does on the modern Gregorian calendar. The Hebrew calendar laid out in the Old Testament has the first month (Nisan) in the spring.
“This month shall be for you the beginning of months. It shall be the first month of the year for you.” (Exodus 12:2 ESV)
God declared this first month to be in the spring season around the time of Passover.
“Observe the month of Abib and keep the Passover to the Lord your God, for in the month of Abib the Lord your God brought you out of Egypt by night.” (Deuteronomy 16:1 ESV)
The month of Abib later became known as Nisan (Esther 3:7). It is the first month of the sacred year for the Hebrew calendar. Nisan corresponds to March/April on the modern calendar. New Year’s Day in the Hebrew calendar is referred to as “Rosh Hashanah” which means “head of the year” (Ezekiel 40:1). Rosh Hashanah occurs on the first of Nisan.
So according to the Hebrew calendar given by God in Scripture, the new year starts in the spring during the month of Nisan, not January 1st. The current Jewish calendar that some follow today sets Rosh Hashanah in the fall, but the original calendar in the Torah established the first month in the spring.
Feasts of the Lord Point to Spring
The Lord’s appointed times give insight into the beginning of the year. God instituted annual feasts for the Israelites to observe.
“These are the appointed feasts of the Lord, the holy convocations, which you shall proclaim at the time appointed for them.” (Leviticus 23:4 ESV)
The feasts were tied to the agricultural harvests in the land. Passover and Unleavened Bread occurred at the time of the barley harvest. Pentecost marked the wheat harvest. And the Fall feasts coincided with the fruit harvest.
Scripture specifically says Passover took place at the start of the new year:
“In the first month, on the fourteenth day of the month at twilight, is the Lord’s Passover.” (Leviticus 23:5 ESV)
The Feast of Trumpets in the fall speaks of the turning of the year, but the first month is clearly Passover in the spring:
“Speak to the people of Israel, saying, In the seventh month, on the first day of the month, you shall observe a day of solemn rest, a memorial proclaimed with blast of trumpets, a holy convocation.” (Leviticus 23:24 ESV)
The Feasts show evidence that God’s calendar resets in the spring, not the middle of winter. If the real new year was January 1st, we would expect Passover to be at the start of the year, not in the middle. The Feasts God instituted fit with a new year starting in the spring with Passover, not a winter new year on January 1st.
Astronomical Events Point to Spring
A key principle with God’s calendar is using the sun, moon, and stars for signs, seasons, days, and years.
“And God said, “Let there be lights in the expanse of the heavens to separate the day from the night. And let them be for signs and for seasons, and for days and years.” (Genesis 1:14 ESV)
The spring equinox occurs around March 20th-21st each year. The spring equinox is when day and night are equal length. It is an astronomical event that lines up with Passover and signals the turning of winter to spring.
In contrast, January 1st has no astronomical significance. It is not connected to any motions of the sun, moon, or stars. Setting the new year in winter goes against the biblical principle of using the heavens for appointed times and seasons.
Additional evidence comes from Revelation 12 which describes a sign in heaven:
“And a great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars. She was pregnant and was crying out in birth pains and the agony of giving birth.” (Revelation 12:1-2 ESV)
This astronomical alignment is believed to have occurred in 3 BCE between the Feast of Trumpets and the Feast of Tabernacles. Again, we see an alignment with the biblical Fall feasts, pointing to a spring new year.
No Command About January 1st
Nowhere in Scripture do we find a command to celebrate January 1st as the start of the new year. It was not a date recognized or celebrated in biblical times. Unlike Passover, Rosh Hashanah, and the Feasts, January 1st has no significance in the Bible. It only became New Year’s Day during the Middle Ages when the Gregorian calendar was instituted by Pope Gregory XIII.
For centuries Christianity did not celebrate January 1st as New Year’s, and the date was even banned at certain points due to its pagan roots. The practice gradually became more accepted over time, but Scripture itself does not give January 1st any significance or associate it with the new year. The absence of biblical support for making January 1st the start of the year points to looking elsewhere in Scripture for when the true new year begins.
Spring Aligns With Redemption
Not only does the Hebrew calendar, Feasts, and astronomy point to the spring, the new year lines up with redemption events in Scripture:
- New Creation – God sets the year to begin around the time of Passover and resurrection. Springtime is when new life buds, aligning with new creation themes.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” (2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV)
- New Covenant – Jesus initiated the New Covenant at the Passover feast before His crucifixion and resurrection. Spring marks the redemption of God’s people and the turning of the ages.
“And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.” (Luke 22:19-20 ESV)
- Exodus Redemption – God led Israel out of Egypt in the spring as Scripture records Passover took place at this time. The Exodus shows God powerfully redeeming and delivering His people.
Spring as the start of the year connects to redemption themes in Scripture. In contrast, January 1st has no theological significance and is not tied to any acts of God’s redemption. The biblical evidence for a spring new year better fulfills the redemptive patterns found in Scripture.
Differing Views Among Christians
While biblical evidence favors the spring as the time for the new year, there is still debate among Christians. Here are some alternate views:
- Fall View – Some believe Rosh Hashanah marks the new year based on references to the “Feast of Trumpets” as the turning of the year (Exodus 23:16, 34:22). But Passover is specifically called the first month which indicates the year starts in spring.
- Dual Calendar View – Another perspective is God established both a spiritual new year in the spring and a civil new year in the fall. But Scripture does not explicitly command two different new year dates.
- January 1st Tradition View – Some Christians recognize biblical evidence for a spring new year, but still honor January 1st as the traditional civil new year celebration day. However, Scripture warns about following man-made tradition over God’s commands (Matthew 15:3,9).
While the preponderance of biblical evidence indicates a spring new year, there are still differing opinions within Christianity. This demonstrates the need for wisdom and continued study regarding God’s intended calendar.
More Study Required
The full picture of God’s calendar is complex with room for debate and discussion within orthodox biblical Christianity. Scripture does not command a dogmatic position but provides wisdom for study.
Further study could consider the changes of calendars throughout history, the debate around lunar versus solar years, influences from Babylonian culture, and the current reconciliation of solar and lunar cycles. There are also typological and prophetic patterns to explore regarding appointed times.
As Christians seek to walk in greater light and understanding of God’s intended times and seasons, there is value in discussion and continued biblical learning regarding calendars. But the core biblical evidence favors the spring as the new year according to Scripture.
Conclusion
The strong weight of biblical evidence points to a spring new year, not January 1st. While the modern civil calendar begins on January 1st, Scripture indicates God originally started the year in the spring month of Nisan. The Hebrew calendar, Feasts of the Lord, astronomical events, patterns of redemption, and absence of January 1st in Scripture all support the spring as the biblical new year. However, there is still healthy debate within Christianity on the issue that calls for ongoing study. In the end, God’s people aim to walk in the light of His truth regarding appointed times. Moving forward, may we listen to the full counsel of God’s Word to gain understanding of His calendar.
The Hebrew Calendar New Year
Most evidence from Scripture points to the new year beginning in spring, not on January 1st as it does on the modern Gregorian calendar. The Hebrew calendar laid out in the Old Testament has the first month (Nisan) in the spring.
“This month shall be for you the beginning of months. It shall be the first month of the year for you.” (Exodus 12:2 ESV)
God declared this first month to be in the spring season around the time of Passover.
“Observe the month of Abib and keep the Passover to the Lord your God, for in the month of Abib the Lord your God brought you out of Egypt by night.” (Deuteronomy 16:1 ESV)
The month of Abib later became known as Nisan (Esther 3:7). It is the first month of the sacred year for the Hebrew calendar. Nisan corresponds to March/April on the modern calendar. New Year’s Day in the Hebrew calendar is referred to as “Rosh Hashanah” which means “head of the year” (Ezekiel 40:1). Rosh Hashanah occurs on the first of Nisan.
So according to the Hebrew calendar given by God in Scripture, the new year starts in the spring during the month of Nisan, not January 1st. The current Jewish calendar that some follow today sets Rosh Hashanah in the fall, but the original calendar in the Torah established the first month in the spring.
Feasts of the Lord Point to Spring
The Lord’s appointed times give insight into the beginning of the year. God instituted annual feasts for the Israelites to observe.
“These are the appointed feasts of the Lord, the holy convocations, which you shall proclaim at the time appointed for them.” (Leviticus 23:4 ESV)
The feasts were tied to the agricultural harvests in the land. Passover and Unleavened Bread occurred at the time of the barley harvest. Pentecost marked the wheat harvest. And the Fall feasts coincided with the fruit harvest.
Scripture specifically says Passover took place at the start of the new year:
“In the first month, on the fourteenth day of the month at twilight, is the Lord’s Passover.” (Leviticus 23:5 ESV)
The Feast of Trumpets in the fall speaks of the turning of the year, but the first month is clearly Passover in the spring:
“Speak to the people of Israel, saying, In the seventh month, on the first day of the month, you shall observe a day of solemn rest, a memorial proclaimed with blast of trumpets, a holy convocation.” (Leviticus 23:24 ESV)
The Feasts show evidence that God’s calendar resets in the spring, not the middle of winter. If the real new year was January 1st, we would expect Passover to be at the start of the year, not in the middle. The Feasts God instituted fit with a new year starting in the spring with Passover, not a winter new year on January 1st.
Astronomical Events Point to Spring
A key principle with God’s calendar is using the sun, moon, and stars for signs, seasons, days, and years.
“And God said, “Let there be lights in the expanse of the heavens to separate the day from the night. And let them be for signs and for seasons, and for days and years.” (Genesis 1:14 ESV)
The spring equinox occurs around March 20th-21st each year. The spring equinox is when day and night are equal length. It is an astronomical event that lines up with Passover and signals the turning of winter to spring.
In contrast, January 1st has no astronomical significance. It is not connected to any motions of the sun, moon, or stars. Setting the new year in winter goes against the biblical principle of using the heavens for appointed times and seasons.
Additional evidence comes from Revelation 12 which describes a sign in heaven:
“And a great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars. She was pregnant and was crying out in birth pains and the agony of giving birth.” (Revelation 12:1-2 ESV)
This astronomical alignment is believed to have occurred in 3 BCE between the Feast of Trumpets and the Feast of Tabernacles. Again, we see an alignment with the biblical Fall feasts, pointing to a spring new year.
No Command About January 1st
Nowhere in Scripture do we find a command to celebrate January 1st as the start of the new year. It was not a date recognized or celebrated in biblical times. Unlike Passover, Rosh Hashanah, and the Feasts, January 1st has no significance in the Bible. It only became New Year’s Day during the Middle Ages when the Gregorian calendar was instituted by Pope Gregory XIII.
For centuries Christianity did not celebrate January 1st as New Year’s, and the date was even banned at certain points due to its pagan roots. The practice gradually became more accepted over time, but Scripture itself does not give January 1st any significance or associate it with the new year. The absence of biblical support for making January 1st the start of the year points to looking elsewhere in Scripture for when the true new year begins.
Spring Aligns With Redemption
Not only does the Hebrew calendar, Feasts, and astronomy point to the spring, the new year lines up with redemption events in Scripture:
- New Creation – God sets the year to begin around the time of Passover and resurrection. Springtime is when new life buds, aligning with new creation themes.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” (2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV)
- New Covenant – Jesus initiated the New Covenant at the Passover feast before His crucifixion and resurrection. Spring marks the redemption of God’s people and the turning of the ages.
“And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.” (Luke 22:19-20 ESV)
- Exodus Redemption – God led Israel out of Egypt in the spring as Scripture records Passover took place at this time. The Exodus shows God powerfully redeeming and delivering His people.
Spring as the start of the year connects to redemption themes in Scripture. In contrast, January 1st has no theological significance and is not tied to any acts of God’s redemption. The biblical evidence for a spring new year better fulfills the redemptive patterns found in Scripture.
Differing Views Among Christians
While biblical evidence favors the spring as the time for the new year, there is still debate among Christians. Here are some alternate views:
- Fall View – Some believe Rosh Hashanah marks the new year based on references to the “Feast of Trumpets” as the turning of the year (Exodus 23:16, 34:22). But Passover is specifically called the first month which indicates the year starts in spring.
- Dual Calendar View – Another perspective is God established both a spiritual new year in the spring and a civil new year in the fall. But Scripture does not explicitly command two different new year dates.
- January 1st Tradition View – Some Christians recognize biblical evidence for a spring new year, but still honor January 1st as the traditional civil new year celebration day. However, Scripture warns about following man-made tradition over God’s commands (Matthew 15:3,9).
While the preponderance of biblical evidence indicates a spring new year, there are still differing opinions within Christianity. This demonstrates the need for wisdom and continued study regarding God’s intended calendar.
More Study Required
The full picture of God’s calendar is complex with room for debate and discussion within orthodox biblical Christianity. Scripture does not command a dogmatic position but provides wisdom for study.
Further study could consider the changes of calendars throughout history, the debate around lunar versus solar years, influences from Babylonian culture, and the current reconciliation of solar and lunar cycles. There are also typological and prophetic patterns to explore regarding appointed times.
As Christians seek to walk in greater light and understanding of God’s intended times and seasons, there is value in discussion and continued biblical learning regarding calendars. But the core biblical evidence favors the spring as the new year according to Scripture.
Conclusion
The strong weight of biblical evidence points to a spring new year, not January 1st. While the modern civil calendar begins on January 1st, Scripture indicates God originally started the year in the spring month of Nisan. The Hebrew calendar, Feasts of the Lord, astronomical events, patterns of redemption, and absence of January 1st in Scripture all support the spring as the biblical new year. However, there is still healthy debate within Christianity on the issue that calls for ongoing study. In the end, God’s people aim to walk in the light of His truth regarding appointed times. Moving forward, may we listen to the full counsel of God’s Word to gain understanding of His calendar.
Key Takeaways:
- Pharaoh of Egypt celebrated his birthday with a lavish banquet
- The wicked King Herod celebrated his birthday with a banquet and had John the Baptist beheaded
- Job’s children held feasts on their birthdays and Job regularly made sacrifices for them
- Nowhere does the Bible explicitly condemn the celebration of birthdays
- Biblical examples show birthdays as times of feasting and rejoicing, but also as potential occasions of sin and pride
The Pharaoh of Egypt
The first biblical mention of a birthday celebration is in Genesis 40, regarding the Pharaoh of Egypt. When the Pharaoh’s cupbearer and baker offended him, he had them imprisoned. While in prison, both the cupbearer and baker had mysterious dreams on the same night. Joseph, with God’s help, interpreted their dreams – the cupbearer would be restored to his position, while the baker would be executed.
Genesis 40:20-22 then states:
Now it came to pass on the third day, which was Pharaoh’s birthday, that he made a feast for all his servants; and he lifted up the head of the chief butler and of the chief baker among his servants. Then he restored the chief butler to his butlership again, and he placed the cup in Pharaoh’s hand. But he hanged the chief baker, as Joseph had interpreted to them.
Here we see the first mention of a birthday celebration, as Pharaoh holds a lavish feast for all his servants on his birthday. As part of the birthday feast, Pharaoh restores his chief butler as Joseph had foretold, but also orders the execution of his chief baker, again fulfilling Joseph’s interpretation.
This account presents the Egyptian Pharaoh’s birthday as an occasion for both feasting and displaying his power and authority. The executions of the baker on Pharaoh’s birthday illustrates how birthdays could also potentially be times of injustice and arbitrary abuse of power.
The Wicked King Herod
Another infamous biblical birthday celebration is that of King Herod in Matthew 14 and Mark 6. As Herod the tetrarch was celebrating his birthday, his daughter Herodias’ daughter (also called Herodias or Salome) danced before him and his guests. Herod was so pleased that he offered her whatever she asked for, up to half his kingdom. After consulting with her mother, Herodias told her daughter to ask for the head of John the Baptist on a platter.
Although King Herod did not want to execute John, he gave in to his foolish oath and had John beheaded in prison. John’s head was brought on a platter to the birthday banquet, to the great sorrow of John’s disciples:
But when Herod’s birthday was celebrated, the daughter of Herodias danced before them and pleased Herod. Therefore he promised with an oath to give her whatever she might ask. So she, having been prompted by her mother, said, “Give me John the Baptist’s head here on a platter.” And the king was sorry; nevertheless, because of the oaths and because of those who sat with him, he commanded it to be given to her. So he sent and had John beheaded in prison. And his head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, and she brought it to her mother. (Matthew 14:6-11)
This grisly account shows how the celebration of Herod’s birthday led to drunkenness, foolish promises, immorality (through Salome’s seductive dancing), pride and ultimately murder. While Scripture does not explicitly condemn the celebration of birthdays, this incident serves as a stark warning against such potential vices associated with birthday festivities and the abuse of power.
Job’s Birthday Feasts
The next mention of birthdays is in Job 1:4-5, regarding the celebration of Job’s children’s birthdays:
And his sons would go and feast in their houses, each on his appointed day, and would send and invite their three sisters to eat and drink with them. So it was, when the days of feasting had run their course, that Job would send and sanctify them, and he would rise early in the morning and offer burnt offerings according to the number of them all. For Job said, “It may be that my sons have sinned and cursed God in their hearts.” Thus Job did regularly.
Here we see that Job’s sons celebrated their birthdays by hosting feasts in their respective houses. Job’s daughters were also invited to these birthday celebrations and feasts.
Interestingly, the passage presents these birthday feasts as part of the regular cultural and religious practices of Job’s family. Job saw these feasts also as occasions where his children may have sinned or “cursed God in their hearts”, so he regularly made burnt offerings and consecrated them after their birthdays, indicating his priestly role as intercessor and atonement for any sins committed.
Some key things to note:
- Job’s sons hosted birthday feasts in their own homes, suggesting these were significant events warranting special celebrations
- The whole family, including Job’s daughters, participated in these birthday feasts
- Job was concerned about the potential for sin and cursing God during these birthday celebrations
- To rectify this, Job regularly made sacrifices on their behalf after their birthdays
So while Job permitted the celebration of birthdays, he also took spiritual precautions and performing religious rituals to sanctify his children and atone for any sins committed during these times of feasting and revelry. This shows how birthdays could be both times of rejoicing, but also potential occasions of sin.
Principles We Can Learn
While Scripture does not explicitly prohibit the celebration of birthdays, these passages give us some principles that can guide how believers approach birthdays:
- Birthdays should be centered on thanking and honoring God, not self-glorification or pride (Romans 14:6-8; 1 Corinthians 10:31). The focus should be on God’s grace and sovereignty in bringing us through another year.
- Birthday celebrations should be characterized by joy and celebration, not wild partying, drunkenness or immorality (Galatians 5:19-21; 1 Peter 4:3-5). Moderation and self-control should be exercised.
- Birthday celebrations should promote love and community, inviting others to rejoice with us (Romans 12:10; Hebrews 10:24-25). Special attention should be given to include family members, as in Job’s case.
- While birthdays can be times of feasting, be careful of excess and overindulgence (Proverbs 23:20-21; Philippians 3:19). Practice wisdom and temperance.
- Be aware that birthdays can also unfortunately be occasions for sin, pride and abuse of power. Make it a priority to honor Christ (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Application for Christians Today
Based on these biblical principles, here are some practical suggestions for how Christians can celebrate birthdays in a God-honoring way:
- Make it a day of thanksgiving and praise to God for His sovereignty, grace and faithfulness in bringing you through another year. Reflect on how He has worked in your life over the past year.
- Spend time in prayer, asking God to search your heart and rid you of any sin or pride related to celebrating your birthday. Repent of specific ways you may have failed to honor Him this past year.
- Celebrate God’s love and mercy by doing acts of charity or kindness to help those in need on your birthday. Use it as a special day to be a blessing.
- Bring Christ into the center of your birthday celebration by singing worship songs, reading Scripture, and sharing testimonies over a meal with loved ones.
- Be careful to exercise self-control over your passions. Enjoy celebratory food and fun but be on guard against overindulgence, drunkenness or lust. Keep Christ at the center.
- Make special efforts to connect with and honor family on your birthday. Celebrate relationships God has given you.
- Consider using your birthday as a special day of fasting and prayer for God’s work locally and globally. Intercede for others.
Birthdays are a gift from God, marking the beginning of another year He has granted us by His grace. By celebrating Christian birthdays in a way that honors Christ, gives thanks to God, connects us in love to others and remembers those less fortunate, we can truly make them joyful occasions that glorify God. Our prayer should be that God is pleased with how we acknowledge and celebrate the gift of life and time He has given us.
Bible says in Isaiah 9:6, “”For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.”
This was a prophecy fulfilled in the incarnation of Christ Jesus along with more than other 300 hundred prophecies from the Old Testament, regarding the coming of the Messiah/savior of mankind into the world. Did you notice the verse above said, “a child will be born to us, a Son will be given to us.” Father God gave His eternal Son to us for our salvation. Keep in mind, Christ’s beginning did not start at his incarnation. He became a man in His incarnation.
This is what theologians call, “Hypostatic union.” It explains how God, the Son of God, took human nature but He remained God at the same time. Jesus is called God-man. Jesus Christ was fully God and fully man in his incarnation. He came to earth and became a man but kept fully the divine nature in Himself. This full divine and human nature of Jesus is clearly evident in the Gospels in the Bible. Jesus wept at the tomb of Lazarus like a man but in next few moments, you ordered Jesus to come out the grace and Lazarus, the dead one for three days, came out of the tomb. (John 11:38 and 43). He was sleeping in a boat showing his full humanity and yet woke up and rebuked the wind and waves and all stopped and the sea became perfectly calm. (Mark 4:39). Jesus healed the sick with His word, controlled the nature with His word, resurrected people with His word, released the people from demon possession with His word. It was due to the fact of the hypostatic union, He was able to pay for humanity’s sin by His sinless and perfect blood on the cross. Jesus Christ can save anyone from their sins and grant eternity in heaven with God based on His death, burial, and resurrection on our behalf if one comes to Jesus in prayer and ask for forgiveness and salvation.
In short, Christ does not need to celebrate His birthday during his lifetime on this earth, simply because He does not have a beginning or the end. After all, what is the birthday of the eternal God? He is eternal Son of God. Jesus says, “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” Revelation 22:13. In another occasion Jesus said to the disciples, “Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.” John 8:48. Bible says also this about Jesus Christ as the eternal word of God in John 1 “In the beginning was the Word (Jesus), and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He (Jesus) was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made…..The Word (Jesus) became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:1-3 and verse 14). The Word, Christ, the Son of God, was given to us. He pre-existed before all things, and hence for Him, there was no need to celebrate birthday being the eternal and everlasting God. In addition, there is no reference in the Bible that says Jesus celebrated His birthday. His humanity had a beginning point at the time of His birth but He was divine and God always and will always be.
Now people all over the world celebrate Christmas every year not to remember Christ’s birthday (I hope) but to remember and acknowledge the Son of God became a man for their sake to reconcile them to God the Father. In fact, Christmas is not viewed as a birthday celebration of Christ. On the contrary, on Christmas day, people of all continents, remember Christ, the Son of God, became a man and came to this earth to pay for our sins on the cross of Calvery to get us back to a loving fellowship and friendship with God. In this way, people celebrate His incarnation (that Jesus took the human nature along with His divine nature) and not His B-day per say.
Alternatively, we should remember Christ, His incarnation, His death, burial and resurrection as a ransom (price) for our sin each and every day of our lives. We should give thanks and praises to Him and to God the Father who sent Jesus to this earth on an ongoing basis. Bible, in fact, asks us to be thankful always. It says, “Always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father.” (Ephesians 5:20).
The Bible notes only two birthday celebrations, one in the Old Testament, one in the New. It should be instructive to review them because the way the Bible colors events indicates God's thoughts on a matter. Though the subject of birthday celebrations is never broached directly, it is mentioned as a detail in two negative vignettes (a third also negative possibility might be found in Job 1). We find the first occurrence in Genesis 40, in the account of the dreams of Pharaoh's butler and baker. After hearing these men's dreams, Joseph tells them that within three days the king will restore the butler to his office but hang the baker (Genesis 40:9-13, 16-19). "On the third day, which was Pharaoh's birthday" (Genesis 40:20), the king did just as Joseph had predicted. The day ended badly, not only with the death of the baker, but also with Joseph having to languish in prison for another "two full years" (Genesis 40:22—41:1). The New Testament occurrence appears in both Matthew 14:1-12 and Mark 6:14-29. Herod holds a feast on his birthday and is so pleased by the dancing of his step-daughter that he promises to give her anything she desires. Her mother, Herodias, instructs her to demand the head of John the Baptist, as revenge for his condemnation of her marriage to Herod. Though regretful, Herod orders the execution, feeling bound by his oaths and pressured by his guests (Mark 6:26-27). One birthday celebration ends with a hanging and a servant of God locked in prison, and the other with the corruption of a young girl and the death of one of God's greatest prophets, the Elijah to come (see Matthew 11:11, 14). The major lesson in each of these events is certainly not about birthdays per se, but we cannot escape the fact that God puts birthday celebrations in an evil light through the details of these stories. A spiritual lesson that can be drawn here is that, when seen in a larger context, birthday celebrations in no way enhance the purpose God is working out and may even play a role in hindering the salvation He is bringing to mankind (Psalm 74:12; see John 6:29). Some might argue that birthday celebrations are only cultural affairs. But knowing that Satan is the god of this world (II Corinthians 4:4), and the whole world lies under his sway (I John 5:19), should we not at least examine their appropriateness to a Christian's life? At the very least, these biblical examples show that birthday celebrations seem to bring out and reinforce the darker side of human nature. Obviously, the people of the Bible at least marked their birthdays because Scripture often records their ages. However, there is a wide gulf between marking a day and celebrating it. One acknowledges its passing while the other honors it. The biblical record shows no man or woman of God celebrating a birthday. Thus, birthday celebrations do not have a God-ordained origin. One could even say a birthday celebration goes against God's instruction in Ecclesiastes 7:1, where Solomon writes, "The day of death [is better] than the day of one's birth." God's perspective on this matter, as in all things, is far higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). He has more joy when we leave this world, having overcome it, than when we enter it (see Isaiah 57:1-2; Philippians 1:21-23). God's perspective seems to be, "Why celebrate the day all your troubles began? Far better to celebrate the day they ended in victory!" An air of excited expectation hovers in the room. A dozen or more guests, replete with party hats and favors, sit around a long dining-room table laden with gift-wrapped presents and a decorated cake. Six shining candles—five and one to grow on—await the extinguishing breath of the young child seated at the place of honor. The now-five-year-old Mary takes a huge breath, silently makes her wish and blows for all she's worth until only little streams of smoke arise from the candle wicks. Everyone claps and sounds their noisemakers. In seconds, the children are screaming for cake and ice cream, while their parents smile and say how cute the birthday girl is in her new outfit. After wolfing down their dessert, the guests exclaim, "Cool!" and "Awesome!" as Mary opens her many gifts. Soon, they are all distracted by the arrival of Bertram the Clown and his trick dog, Winfred. The children sit mesmerized by their performance. Bertram is not only funny, but he also sings silly songs and makes balloon animals. Winfred can jump through a hoop and stand on both his front legs and his back legs. He even does math, barking the answers! The pair is a hit with the kids. The party is all over in an hour or two, except for the clean up. What a wonderful day it has been for Mary! Really? Are birthday celebrations as harmless as they seem? Certainly, they are fun, but what are we teaching our children by throwing birthday parties for them? Are the long-term effects good or evil? Do they help or hinder the growth of a child's character? What implications do birthday celebrations have on their relationship with God? Biblical Examples The Bible notes only two birthday celebrations, one in the Old Testament, one in the New. It should be instructive to review them because the way the Bible colors events indicates God's thoughts on a matter. Though the subject of birthday celebrations is never broached directly, it is mentioned as a detail in two negative vignettes. We find the first occurrence in Genesis 40, in the account of the dreams of Pharaoh's butler and baker. After hearing these men's dreams, Joseph tells them that within three days the king will restore the butler to his office but hang the baker (Genesis 40:9-13, 16-19). "On the third day, which was Pharaoh's birthday" (Genesis 40:20), the king did just as Joseph had predicted. The day ended badly, not only with the death of the baker, but also with Joseph having to languish in prison for another "two full years" (Genesis 40:22-41:1). The New Testament occurrence appears in Matthew 14:1-12 and Mark 6:14-29. Herod holds a feast on his birthday and is so pleased by the dancing of his step-daughter that he promises to give her anything she desires. Her mother, Herodias, instructs her to demand the head of John the Baptist, as revenge for his condemnation of her marriage to Herod. Though regretful, Herod orders the execution, feeling bound by his oaths and pressured by his guests (Mark 6:26-27). One birthday celebration ends with a hanging and a servant of God locked in prison, and the other with the corruption of a young girl and the death of one of God's greatest prophets, the Elijah to come (see Matthew 11:11, 14). The major lesson in each of these events is certainly not about birthdays per se, but we cannot escape the fact that God puts birthday celebrations in an evil light through the details of these stories. A spiritual lesson that can be drawn here is that, when seen in a larger context, birthday celebrations in no way enhance the purpose God is working out and may even play a role in hindering the salvation He is bringing to mankind (Psalm 74:12; see John 6:29). Some might argue that birthday celebrations are only cultural affairs. But knowing that Satan is the god of this world (II Corinthians 4:4), and the whole world lies under his sway (I John 5:19), should we not at least examine their appropriateness to a Christian's life? At the very least, these biblical examples show that birthday celebrations seem to bring out and reinforce the darker side of human nature. Obviously, the people of the Bible at least marked their birthdays because Scripture often records their ages. However, there is a wide gulf between marking a day and celebrating it. One acknowledges its passing while the other honors it. The biblical record shows no man or woman of God celebrating a birthday. Thus, birthday celebrations do not have a God-ordained origin. One could even say a birthday celebration goes against God's instruction in Ecclesiastes 7:1, where Solomon writes, "The day of death [is better] than the day of one's birth." God's perspective on this matter, as in all things, is far higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). He has more joy when we leave this world, having overcome it, than when we enter it (see Isaiah 57:1-2; Philippians 1:21-23). God's perspective seems to be, "Why celebrate the day all your troubles began? Far better to celebrate the day they ended in victory!" A Spiritual Principle Let's look at this subject from another angle. A basic spiritual principle answers any questions regarding the celebration of birthdays. Paul states it very simply in I Corinthians 10:31:
In all our activities, our emphasis should be on honoring God, rather than ourselves. Since birthday celebrations encourage the glorification of the self and promote "self-centeredness" rather than "God-centeredness," birthday celebrations transgress this principle. If we are truly striving to instill godly character into our children, birthday parties are not a good option. In a radio interview with a former Satan worshipper, the interviewer asked, "What is the most important day after Halloween to a Satan worshipper?" The answer is eye-opening! He said, "Your own birthday!" We know that everything Satan does is contrary to God's way. Satan opposes God in every thought and despises all godly things. If he initiates something, the result is wickedness. By promoting birthday celebrations, Satan, the Great Deceiver (Revelation 12:9), deceives people into exalting themselves so he can de-emphasize the great God. Birthdays promote the idea that we have achieved something worthwhile, when in fact life is a gift from God. King Solomon, speaking of man in general, writes of "the days of his life which God gives him under the sun" (Ecclesiastes 8:15). A birthday celebration takes credit away from God, redirecting it to a physical human being. Birthday celebrations rob God of the honor and glory He is due as Creator and Sustainer of life. Moses records:
Man made no effort in his creation; he is the creation. Nevertheless, human beings redirect the credit and glory to themselves, which is simply a form of idolatry. We have been called and set apart to worship the Creator, but those who are still carnal worship the creation (Romans 1:25). Gift-Giving At birthday parties, gift-giving is usually a central part of the celebration. Guests give gifts to the creation instead of the Creator, showing honor to an undeserving recipient. What have humans ever done to merit such rewards, honor and praise? Surely, attaining one more year of age is not such an achievement! Spiritual gifts such as praise and thankfulness should go to God for all of His wonderful creations, as well as for the many gifts He gives. Satan uses this common practice to de-emphasize God's greatness and worthiness. Jesus gives us the proper perspective:
In the end, only the honor and praise that God gives us are of any eternal importance. Generally, though, giving gifts is not wrong. James describes God the Father as the Giver of "every good gift and every perfect gift" (James 1:17), and He gives His children many gifts and talents throughout their lives. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus commends parents for giving good gifts to their children (Matthew 7:11). In many places the Bible instructs us to imitate and grow in the character traits of God. The context of Jesus' remarks in Matthew 7, however, hints at providing for their needs, not fulfilling their lusts or lavishing them with undeserved "loot." As Herbert Armstrong would say, doing so only teaches and reinforces the "get" way that Satan promotes. Knowing when and why to give a gift to another is the key. A gift should always serve to edify the recipient and should never perpetuate an existing problem like greed, covetousness, envy or self-pity. Giving a gift simply because time has passed is not among the best of reasons. Celebrating birthdays with parties and gifts emphasizes the "selfish" way of life. However, acknowledging a loved one's birthday and letting him know that he was remembered can be a "thinking of you" type of warm gesture that can be encouraging if done properly. Sending an uplifting card, calling on the telephone or a personal visit would not be inappropriate, especially to those who are elderly, live alone or reside far away. But God's spiritual principles should not be compromised. If we feel that a wrong spirit pervades any kind of celebration, we should not be part of it or condone it by our presence and participation. Wrong Attitudes The apostle Paul writes in Galatians 6:3, "For if anyone thinks himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself." The word "deceives" in this verse is the Greek word phrenapateo, meaning "to mislead after having been misled by a seducer." Satan, the seducer, misleads man in any way he can, and one of his subtle methods is the pride and selfishness that birthday celebrations promote. Once a man is misled by Satan, he becomes a misleader himself, leading others down the road to destruction. Celebrating birthdays at first glance may look like a harmless, innocent celebration, but it still promotes wrong attitudes. Along with self-centeredness, it also encourages self-exaltation or pride. Jesus Christ said, "And whoever exalts himself will be abased [humiliated], and he who humbles himself will be exalted" (Matthew 23:12). Satan uses pride to combat humility because he knows that pride and humility cannot co-exist. Pride replaces humility unless we actively fight against it. The apostle Paul says:
Here, he admonishes us not to esteem ourselves too much, an attitude that leads to vanity and arrogance. Yet, is that not what is being pushed in our society today? A central premise in education and childrearing is instilling self-esteem in our youth, supposedly to give them confidence and motivation to succeed in life. There is no surer method to produce competition and strife! The Word of God, on the other hand, teaches us:
This latter attitude produces peace, cooperation and unity. A birthday party places all the attention on one individual, upon whom is bestowed attention, praise, honor and gifts. What a boost to the self-esteem! A young child, without wisdom and maturity, might come to expect—even demand—such attention, which could evolve into self-centeredness. Obviously, this could lead to grave, eternal consequences. A true Christian is God-centered rather than self-centered and gives honor to Him rather than himself. We look forward to a new birth as spirit members of the Kingdom of God rather than back at an imperfect physical life. Why would we want to celebrate an inferior physical birth? We will not even celebrate our "birth" as spirit beings at the resurrection. We (as the bride) will attend the marriage supper with Jesus Christ, the Bridegroom. We will not be celebrating our birth as spirit beings but our union with our God, Elder Brother and King. God does not even ask us to celebrate the birth of His own Son but rather His death! We do this each year at Passover (I Corinthians 11:26). As quoted earlier, Paul's words sum up our approach to our every action: "Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God" (I Corinthians 10:31). Everything we do should bring dignity, honor, glory, praise, and worship to the great and almighty God of the universe! If what we do fails this test, avoid it.
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