How Martin Luther Connected Christmas to Creation

Here are some quotes by Martin Luther showing the connection of Christmas to creation.

Traditions say that Martin Luther, the great Reformer of the church and liberator of individual conscience (see 29 Oct 2017), was the composer of “Away in a Manger” and was the first to put lights on a Christmas tree. Whether or not those anecdotes are historically accurate, we can tell from some of his statements that he regarded the birth of the baby Jesus as a monumental event that was profoundly connected with the Biblical doctrine of creation. We offer these quotes* for your enjoyment and appreciation this Christmas Eve.

The Meaning of Christmas

That the Creator himself comes to us and becomes our ransom – this is the reason for our rejoicing.

The Reason for Christmas

We are beginning to regain a knowledge of Creation, a knowledge forfeited by the fall of Adam. By God’s mercy we can begin to recognize His Wonderful works and wonders also in flowers when we ponder his might and goodness. Therefore we laud, magnify and thank Him.

The Result of Christmas

Now if I believe in God’s Son and remember that He became man, all creatures will appear a hundred times more beautiful to me than before. Then I will properly appreciate the sun, the moon, the stars, trees, apples, as I reflect that he is Lord over all things. …God writes the Gospel, not in the Bible alone, but also on trees, and in the flowers and clouds and stars.

God’s Care in Christmas

For God is wholly present in all creation, in every corner, he is behind you and before you. Do you think he is sleeping on a pillow in heaven? He is watching over you and protecting you.

The Joy of Christmas Music

A person who does not regard music as a marvelous creation of God, must be a clodhopper indeed and does not deserve to be called a human being; he should be permitted to hear nothing but the braying of asses and the grunting of hogs.

Happy New Year!

Glory to God in highest heaven, Who unto man His Son hath given; While angels sing with tender mirth, A glad new year to all the earth.

A sermon Martin Luther gave on Christmas day in 1530 has been posted online by Dan Eppley, PhD at McMurry University.

Note: Reporting will be sparse between Christmas and New Years. Regular posts will return after January 1, 2020.

*Quotes subject to accuracy of the translation and the context of the statements.