The Christian Origins of Santa Claus

Christmastime is here, and that means the annual worldwide tour of Santa Claus is upon us! While Santa is a hallmark of the Christmas season, what many people might not know is that this mythical character is based on a real person—a Christian hero, in fact.

Saint Nicholas was an early church leader who served as a bishop during the third and fourth centuries. And he was actually around for some pretty significant moments in church history.

In this episode, we explore the history of Saint Nicholas and his contributions to church history. We also explain how it is that he came to be called Santa Claus and why he now makes annual appearances on our Coke cans and in our shopping malls.

More importantly, we discuss the lessons that Christians can take from the events of his legendary life that will help us to live more like Jesus this holiday season.

RELATED RESOURCES

READ: The Man Who Became Santa: Who Was Saint Nick and Why Should Christians Care?
READ: 10 Quotes From Basil the Great That Are, Well, Great
LISTEN: The Apostles’ Creed: The One Thing All Christians Agree On
LISTEN: How Your Nativity Decorations Are Biblically Inaccurate

 

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