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To: dangus; Mr. Mulliner
Why do people who call themselves Christians seem so fixated on negating Christian pieties? ... or do you harbor resentment of Christian holidays?

Because for some the notion of Christian "holidays" constituties a form of will worship.

"I know how difficult it is to persuade the world that God disapproves of all modes of worship not expressly sanctioned by his word. The opposite persuasion which cleaves to them, being seated, as it were, in their very bones and marrow, is, that whatever they do has in itself a sufficient sanction, provided it exhibits some kind of zeal for the honor of God. But since God not only regards as fruitless, but also plainly abominates, whatever we undertake from zeal to his worship, if at variance with his command, what do we gain by a contrary course? The words of God are clear and distinct, "Obedience is better than sacrifice." "In vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men," (1 Sam. 15:22; Matt. 15:9). Every addition to his word, especially in this matter, is a lie. Mere "will worship" (ethelothreeskeia) is vanity. This is the decision, and when once the judge has decided, it is no longer time to debate." (John Calvin, The Necessity of Reforming the Church)

7 posted on 12/20/2004 7:12:47 AM PST by topcat54
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To: topcat54

Well that's the point; asserting that Christmas is not Christian in origin is to assert that Christians should not participate in Christmas. An inoccuous-seeming message about curiosities becomes a challenge to the piety of Christmas, if it argues that Christmas is not a Godly celebration.


8 posted on 12/20/2004 8:48:05 AM PST by dangus
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