Does Keeping Christmas Matter? (December 2001)

December 2001
Volume 10, Number 10

Christmas is considered a ?Christian? holiday, even though its biblical connections are tenuous. Its customs have more in common with ancient European pagnism than Christianity. Does its supposed honoring of Christ make it a legitimate holiday for Christians to celebrate? (Holce)

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh
Christmas, Syncretism, and Presumption

Many who consider themselves Christians believe celebrating Christmas honors Jesus Christ, even though the holiday has no biblical support. While it is attractive and appealing, Christmas is actually a spiritual trap because it is not true. John Ritenbaugh explains that it is highly presumptuous to believe that such a syncretized holiday, blended liberally with heathen customs, could please God.

Ready Answer
The Whole Truth
by John O. Reid

Most of us have heard the courtroom mantra, "the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth." John Reid, however, applies these criteria to our behavior, showing that many of us shy away from "nothing but the truth"!

Prophecy Watch
Globalism (Part Six):
Tide and Countertide
by Charles Whitaker

Globalism has an equal and opposite counterpart: tribalism. Charles Whitaker explains what tribalism is and how it affects the world and the church.

Ingratitude
by Mark Schindler

Why do some people gripe, complain, and feel slighted even when others have jumped through hoops to smooth their way? The answer may be ingratitude. A reluctance to thank others - particularly God - for their help reveals a self-centered and inconsiderate attitude. In recounting a personal story, Mark Schindler shows how ingratitude can stifle and eventually derail our relationship with God if we let it.

WorldWatch
WorldWatch
by David C. Grabbe

A survey of news, events, and trends in relation to Bible prophecy for December 2001.

Bible Study
Tithing:
First Tithe
by Martin G. Collins

Many churches understand tithing but do not believe that God commands them for today. This Bible Study shows that tithing has always been God's way of financing His work on earth.