“Featured Testimony: When the Fire Took Christmas — Read Michelle’s Story”

Honoring God in a Culture of Tradition 

Introduction

This series examines worship through the lens of Scripture and evaluates the traditions that have developed within Christian culture over time.
The purpose is not to condemn celebration, impose burdens, or create division among believers, but to provide clarity concerning what God has instructed and what has been shaped by human tradition.

Throughout Scripture, God repeatedly calls His people to worship Him according to His truth—not according to inherited customs, emotional attachment, or cultural influence.
The Bible presents a clear pattern: whenever the people of God adopted practices from surrounding nations, worship gradually shifted from obedience to tradition.

This pattern is seen in Israel’s history, in the warnings of the prophets, in the confrontations of Christ, and even in the early church.
It continues today, where many cultural practices have become normalized in Christian society without examination through Scripture.

This series returns to the biblical foundation of worship and examines the common traditions associated with the holiday season in light of the Word.

What This Series Explores

This series will examine the following subjects through Scripture and historical documentation:

1. The Biblical Definition of Worship

A study of what God declares worship to be, contrasted with modern cultural concepts.

2. The Distinction Between Praise and Worship

Praise is outward expression; worship is inward surrender. Scripture defines both clearly.

3. How Tradition Has Replaced Truth Throughout History

A biblical and historical timeline showing how sincere hearts have often adopted practices that did not originate from God.

4. The Development of Christmas in Roman Culture

An examination of December 25, Saturnalia, Sol Invictus, and the historical process of syncretism.

5. The Origins of Common Christmas Symbols

Each symbol will be addressed individually with historical sources and biblical comparison:

• The tree

• The lights

• The wreath

• The star

• Gift-giving

• Nativity blending

6. Honoring God During the Season Without Compromise

Guidance for believers seeking to walk in truth, holiness, and unity.

7. Scripture-Based Reflection and Study

Thoughtful questions and passages for personal examination.

Purpose of This Series

The purpose of this teaching series is:

• To establish worship according to Scripture

• To distinguish between biblical instruction and cultural practice

• To offer understanding without condemnation

• To call believers to examine traditions through truth

• To uphold unity within the Body of Christ

• To present history accurately and without bias

• To direct all honor toward God alone

All teachings in this series are grounded in Scripture and supported by historical documentation.
No personal opinion, denominational tradition, or cultural reinterpretation forms any part of the instruction.

A Return to Worship in Spirit and Truth

Jesus declared:

“Those who worship Him must worship in spirit and in truth.”
— John 4:24

This series seeks to restore that definition.

By examining the foundations of worship and the origins of tradition, this teaching invites all who seek truth to measure every practice according to Scripture.

This is not presented as judgment, but as clarity.

Not as condemnation, but as understanding.

Not as division, but as a call back to the standard God Himself established.

For extended background, historical documentation, and additional insight related to this teaching, access the full article linked below.