“You observe days and months and seasons and years! 11 I am afraid I may have labored over you in vain.” — Galatians 4:10–11 (ESV)

Galatians 4:10–11 has absolutely nothing to do with holidays observed by the world today, in my understanding of the Scripture.

The Bridgeway Bible Commentary explains:

“Now that the Galatians have come to know the true God, they are foolish to get into bondage again by trying to keep the Jewish law. By doing so they are not going forward in their Christian lives; they are going backwards (8-11). The Galatians should live as those free from the law, just as Paul does.”

— Bridgeway Bible Commentary, Galatians 4:8–11

The King James Study Bible, Full Color Edition, provides additional context.

Verse 4:10: The Galatians were beginning to observe that part of the law least repugnant to them—the calendar: days (Sabbath, fast, and feast days), months (new moons or feast days beginning with each month), times (Passover, Pentecost, and the Feast of Tabernacles), and years (sabbatical years and the Year of Jubilee).

Verse 4:11: The phrase “in vain” means “without saving result.” Should the Galatians completely embrace the law and the Judaizers’ message of salvation by works, it would show their profession of faith in Paul’s gospel to have been merely outward and not real.

— King James Study Bible, Full Color Edition, notes on Galatians 4:10–11

Why Studying the Bible for Yourself Is Important

Acts 17:11 — the Bereans examined the Scriptures daily to determine whether what they were being taught was true.

I discovered something very valuable in the study of God’s Word: study Bibles!

I own several. Study Bibles can give you a clearer understanding of Scripture while studying. You can learn about the historical context, definitions, and so much more.

I have several because some are on point and detailed, while others are short and brief. So, I like to look at more than one and lean on the Holy Spirit to guide me.

I was taught that Galatians 4:10–11 included all current holidays.

However, after actually having the time to study for myself, rather than focusing my energy on prepared lessons with prepared Scriptures, I have found a greater understanding of the Scriptures. So much more understanding has been opened up to me.

Many questions that I always had but was afraid to ask have been answered. I can now study on my own and have a greater understanding.

I have found that much of what I’ve been taught in the past was erroneous.

Ceremonial Laws and Christians Under the New Covenant

Ceremonial laws—Christians are not obligated to follow these. I believe Jesus’ death fulfilled the requirements of these rituals.

Related Scriptures: Colossians 2:16; Hebrews 8:4–6, 13.

From what I believe to be the false doctrine of tithes (which is under the law and was not money), to the celebration of holidays, and so much more!

I’m just not into holidays, so I don’t really celebrate them. I’d rather spend my money on necessities or savings.

I thank God for each year I live to see another birthday, but who am I to have a big party to celebrate me? If I must do something a simple dinner would more than suffice.

I celebrate Jesus Christ, my Lord and King, the Savior of the world.

I will not celebrate Easter or Christmas. I believe these holidays have pagan influences and include traditions that are not based on the truth of God’s Word.

Let No One Disqualify You: Colossians 2:16

“Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath.”

— Colossians 2:16 (ESV)

“In speaking of a new covenant, he makes the first one obsolete. And what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away.”

— Hebrews 8:13 (ESV)

Is Celebrating Holidays, Anniversaries, or Birthdays a Sin?

But is acknowledging every holiday, anniversary, or birthday a sin?

I have not found Scripture to support this teaching. Yet, this is what I was taught.

Besides, saints of God don’t party like the world parties. We fellowship or have a meal together; we do not party hard like the world.

We don’t indulge in alcoholic beverages or mind-altering substances. We remain sober in body and mind always!

Why Christians Should Study the Scriptures for Themselves

I encourage the followers of Jesus Christ to study for yourselves to gain understanding.

Challenge what you’re being taught by these spiritual leaders. Study the Scriptures to see if it is so.

Some will burden you down with their lessons and supporting Scriptures that require you to study with the little free time you have.

This, in my opinion, is a bullying and control tactic.

They teach by asking questions during the Bible study service and intimidating those who don’t know the answers to questions in reference to their lessons.

It’s sad but true.

Governing the people by fear and intimidation.

When will you actually have the time to search and study the Scriptures for yourself?

You more than likely won’t.

That’s the whole point of this type of leadership.

A Final Encouragement to My Brothers and Sisters in Christ

I pray for my brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus.

That as we learn better, we will do better and be better!

Peace!!

sister Brenda