We just wrapped up a thoughtful and encouraging conversation about if Christmas is pagan with Shea Houdmann, the founder of GotQuestions.org, a ministry that has been faithfully serving believers for 24 years and has now answered over 2.6 billion questions for Christians around the world. With Christmas here, there is hardly a better time to bring in someone whose entire ministry is built around clarity, biblical grounding, and helping believers navigate tough or confusing questions.

Shea walked us through the issues that many Christians wrestle with this time of year. Was Christmas borrowed from pagan traditions? Is Jeremiah 10 condemning Christmas trees? Should we avoid December 25 since Jesus may have been born in a different month? Shea addressed each question with Scripture, history, and common sense. Jeremiah 10 describes idol worship, not decorating a tree. Ancient festivals do not determine the meaning of a Christian’s celebration. And while Jesus may not have been born in December, Shea reminds us that the central truth remains untouched: the Son of God truly became flesh, was born of a woman, lived a sinless life, died for sinners, and rose again victorious over the grave. None of that could have happened if He had not first been born.

This stands in sharp contrast to voices like John Shelby Spong, who wrote on Belief.net that modern society must reject the Christmas accounts as “miracle and magic,” insisting that “no reputable biblical theologian today” defends their historical accuracy. Shea reminded us that claims like these are not new. They resurface every generation, but they collapse when tested against the combined weight of Scripture, history, archaeology, fulfilled prophecy, and the unbroken testimony of the church. The issue has never been a lack of evidence. It has always been a condition of the heart.

We also explored topics like Saturnalia, the origins of the Christmas tree, the role of St. Nicholas, and whether saying “Xmas” is wrong. Shea explained that the Greek letter Chi (X) has been used as shorthand for “Christ” for centuries. The real question is not what letters we use, but who we are honoring. Even the placement of the wise men in nativity scenes came up, and Shea pointed out that while they likely arrived later, they remain part of the beautiful story God is telling.

Most importantly, Shea reminded us that faith is not the absence of evidence. The birth of Jesus is supported by Scripture, history, archaeology, prophecy, and the testimony of countless believers throughout time. But ultimately, if someone’s heart is hardened, no amount of evidence will open their eyes. Only God can reveal truth to the seeking heart.

With 2.6 billion questions answered over 24 years, GotQuestions.org has become one of the most trusted resources for Christians worldwide. And this Christmas themed episode captures exactly why. It is biblical, balanced, and centered not on traditions or controversies, but on the miracle of God made flesh.

From all of us… Merry Christmas, and may Jesus be the focus of your celebration.

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