30 Powerful bible verses to read at christmas (Full Commentary)

Pastor David

bible study for you

Today we will talk about bible verses to read at Christmas. Christmas is a special season filled with joy, love, and the spirit of giving. It’s a time when we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, our Savior, and reflect on the blessings we have received. Reading scripture during this season helps anchor us in the true meaning of Christmas. These verses not only inspire us but also remind us of the hope, love, and peace that came into the world through Christ’s birth. As we gather with family and friends, let’s take a moment to meditate on these Bible verses that can guide our hearts toward a deeper understanding and appreciation of this glorious time of year.

bible verses to read at christmas

The Promise of Christ

As we celebrate Christmas, it’s essential to remember the beautiful promise that God made to us: the gift of Jesus. We can find comfort and joy in knowing that God was anticipating our needs long before we were born. This season serves as a reminder that God is faithful to His promises. These scriptures emphasize how we can find hope in Christ, reassuring us that His birth was not just an event but the fulfillment of a divine promise that brings salvation to all of humanity.

Isaiah 9:6

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” – Isaiah 9:6

Luke 2:11

“For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” – Luke 2:11

John 3:16

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16

Matthew 1:21

“She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” – Matthew 1:21

Galatians 4:4-5

“But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.” – Galatians 4:4-5

The Joy of the Season

Christmas is known as the season of joy, and it is when we reflect on the happiness that the birth of Jesus brings to our lives. This joy is not merely temporary; it’s an everlasting joy rooted in our relationship with Christ. As we read these verses about joy, we’re encouraged to share that happiness with those around us. Let’s spread the truth that Jesus came to bring joy not only to our hearts but to the entire world.

Luke 2:10

“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.'” – Luke 2:10

John 15:11

“I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” – John 15:11

Philippians 4:4

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” – Philippians 4:4

Psalm 118:24

“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” – Psalm 118:24

Nehemiah 8:10

“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” – Nehemiah 8:10

The Gift of Love

At Christmas, we are reminded of the greatest gift of all: love. The love of God is seen in Jesus’ humble birth and His sacrifice for us. As we read these verses about love, we are inspired to not only receive God’s love but also to reflect it in our lives toward others. Love has the power to change hearts and bring people closer together, making this season even more special.

1 John 4:9

“This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.” – 1 John 4:9

Romans 5:8

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8

John 15:13

“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” – John 15:13

1 John 4:19

“We love because he first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19

1 Corinthians 13:13

“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” – 1 Corinthians 13:13

Peace on Earth

This Christmas, we are encouraged to embrace the peace that comes from knowing Christ. The birth of Jesus signifies a new beginning and a peace that surpasses all understanding. As we celebrate, we should also strive to share that peace with others, recognizing that it’s a gift we can give freely. Let’s remind ourselves with these verses that our hearts can be calm and tranquil even amidst the busyness of the season.

Luke 2:14

“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” – Luke 2:14

Philippians 4:7

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:7

John 14:27

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” – John 14:27

Isaiah 26:3

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” – Isaiah 26:3

Romans 15:13

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13

Hope for the Future

Christmas is a time to reflect on hope—the hope that started all with Jesus’ birth. Amidst the challenges of life, these verses provide reassurance that God has a plan and a purpose for us. We are reminded that Christmas represents the dawn of new possibilities and an eternal promise of life. Let’s hold on to the hope that Jesus brings this season and carry it with us into the New Year.

Jeremiah 29:11

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

Romans 5:2

“Through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand, and we boast in the hope of the glory of God.” – Romans 5:2

1 Peter 1:3

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy, he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” – 1 Peter 1:3

Hebrews 6:19

“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain.” – Hebrews 6:19

Romans 15:4

“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.” – Romans 15:4

Gratitude and Thanks

This Christmas season serves as an opportunity for us to express gratitude for the blessings we have received, most importantly for the gift of Jesus. These verses encourage us to give thanks for the goodness of God in our lives. Gratitude helps us to be mindful of all that God has done for us, reinforcing our faith and reminding us to appreciate every moment. Let’s remember to cultivate an attitude of thankfulness, reflecting on how God’s grace continues to enrich our lives.

1 Thessalonians 5:18

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Psalm 136:1

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.” – Psalm 136:1

Colossians 3:15

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” – Colossians 3:15

Philippians 4:6

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6

Ephesians 5:20

“Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” – Ephesians 5:20

Family and Togetherness

Christmas is a time for families to gather, share love, and create lasting memories. The scriptures emphasize the importance of family and community, reminding us that God designed us for relationships. These verses encourage us to cherish our loved ones and build unity in our homes. As we celebrate with family, let’s embrace one another and show kindness, creating an atmosphere filled with warmth and togetherness.

Philippians 1:3

“I thank my God every time I remember you.” – Philippians 1:3

Colossians 3:14

“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” – Colossians 3:14

Proverbs 17:17

“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” – Proverbs 17:17

1 Timothy 5:8

“Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” – 1 Timothy 5:8

Psalm 133:1

“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” – Psalm 133:1

The Light of the World

During Christmas, we celebrate Jesus as the light of the world, illuminating our paths and dispelling darkness. John 8:12 reminds us that whoever follows Him will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life. These verses encourage us to let our lights shine before others, sharing the hope and joy that Christ brings to our lives. Let’s make the commitment to reflect that light in our communities during this beautiful season.

John 8:12

“When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'” – John 8:12

Matthew 5:16

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16

Isaiah 60:1

“Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.” – Isaiah 60:1

John 12:46

“I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.” – John 12:46

2 Corinthians 4:6

“For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.” – 2 Corinthians 4:6

Embracing Forgiveness

As we gather this Christmas, we should remember the importance of forgiveness, echoing the heart of Christ’s mission on Earth. Jesus came to mend hearts and reconcile relationships. The act of forgiving others is an essential part of our faith journey. These verses call us to embrace and extend forgiveness, freeing ourselves from past burdens and embodying the spirit of Christmas. Let’s come together with open hearts, ready to forgive and heal.

Colossians 3:13

“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13

Ephesians 4:32

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32

Matthew 6:14-15

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” – Matthew 6:14-15

Luke 6:37

“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” – Luke 6:37

Matthew 18:21-22

“Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, ‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times!'” – Matthew 18:21-22

Final Thoughts

As we reflect on the wonderful Bible verses to read at Christmas, we are reminded of the incredible gift God has given us in Jesus. Christmas encompasses hope, love, joy, and peace, which resonate throughout the scriptures. Each verse invites us to experience these blessings in our hearts, helping us to cultivate a spirit of gratitude, forgiveness, and togetherness.

Let’s carry the message of Jesus into our lives, illuminating the world around us. As we build relationships and share the joy of the season, we can trust that God’s promises are everlasting. May we continue to look to Scripture as our guide, nurturing the light of Christ in our hearts and sharing it with others.

This Christmas, let’s not forget to embrace the true meaning of the season—God’s love for us manifested through the gift of His Son. Together, let’s celebrate this beautiful message, pouring out His joy, love, and peace into the lives of everyone we encounter.

Further Reading

30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)

30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)

30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)

30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)

4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4

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