The Christian faith and adherents consider Christmas as very important for several reasons. It is widely regarded as the biggest and most globally-celebrated festivity. This is because people from greater number of countries celebrate it than any other festival.
Christmas is officially or culturally observed in over 160 countries across all continents—North and South America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Oceania. No other religious or cultural festival has this level of geographical spread.
Also, despite being a Christian celebration, non-Christians join in the commemoration of Christmas as a cultural, family, or commercial holiday.
Below are ten most important facts about Christmas.
1. Christmas Celebrates the Birth of Jesus Christ: Christmas marks the birth of Jesus, the central figure of Christianity, believed to be the Son of God and the Savior of humanity. Luke 2:11 — “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.”
2. Jesus Was Born as the Promised Messiah: Jesus’ birth fulfilled Old Testament prophecies about a coming Messiah who would deliver God’s people. Isaiah 9:6 — “For unto us a child is born… and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God…”
3. Jesus Was Born of a Virgin: The virgin birth shows that Jesus’ birth was a divine act, emphasizing His unique identity as both fully human and fully divine. Matthew 1:23 — “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel.”
Jesus’ humble birth
4. Jesus Was Born in Bethlehem: Bethlehem, though a small town, was chosen by God as the birthplace of the Messiah, fulfilling prophecy. Micah 5:2 — “But you, Bethlehem… out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel.”
5. Jesus Was Born in Humble Conditions: Jesus was laid in a manger, showing humility and identifying with the poor and ordinary people. Luke 2:7 — “She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available.”
6. Angels Announced His Birth: Angels proclaimed Jesus’ birth as good news for all people, showing its global and spiritual importance. Luke 2:10–11 — “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people…”
7. Shepherds Were the First to Hear the News: God chose shepherds—ordinary and socially humble people—to first receive the announcement, highlighting God’s inclusive love. Luke 2:16 — “So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.”
8. Wise Men Recognized Jesus as King: The visit of the Wise Men (Magi) shows that Jesus came not only for Jews but for all nations. Matthew 2:11 — “They bowed down and worshiped him… and presented him with gifts.”
9. Jesus Came to Bring Salvation: The purpose of Jesus’ birth was to save humanity from sin and restore relationship with God. Matthew 1:21 — “He will save his people from their sins.”
10. Christmas Is About God’s Love for Humanity: Christmas reflects God’s love in sending His Son to live among humans and bring redemption. John 3:16 — “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son…”
