2. Introduction Smashing icons a tradition for some… Trees and Carols Lights and Gifts Santa Claus? Feel uncomfortable about all this stuff?

3. Theme Christmas abounds with opportunity to tell the message of Jesus – especially with the story of Nicolas of Myra.

4. 1.The Scriptural Warning About Myths, 1 Tim. 4:6-11 6 You will be doing your duty as Christ’s minister if you remind your church members about false teachings. You will show yourself as one who owes his strength to the truth of the faith if you absorb the sound teachings of Jesus. 7 But steer clear of all these stupid Godless fictions. Take time and trouble to keep yourself spiritually fit.

5. 8 Bodily fitness has a certain value, but spiritual fitness is essential both for this present life and for the life to come. 9 There is no doubt about this at all, and Christians should remember it. 10 It is because we realize the paramount importance of the spiritual that we labor and struggle. 11 We place our whole confidence in the living God, the savior of all men, and particularly of those who believe in him. These convictions should be the basis of your instruction and teaching.

6. Summary of I Timothy 4:6-11 1.Don’t get preoccupied with myth chasing. 2.But do warn folks about error. 3.Get the truth right and teach and follow it. 4.Physical exercise is good but spiritual exercise is essential. 5.Spiritual health is a blessing now and in eternity. 6.We will perspire more with spiritual training than with anything else. 7.Jesus & His Faithful Followers help us get fit.

7. 2. Getting the Story Straight About “Santa Claus” The message of Nicholas of Myra is as useful today as ever. But it has been demeaned and corrupted. Here is the Real Story…

10. 3. Sorting Truth Out From Myth At Christmas

11. Santa gives on the condition of being good – Jesus gives on the condition of adoption

12. Santa gives gifts that wear out, break, lose value – Jesus’ gifts are eternal and constantly renewed

13. Santa gives toys and stuff – Jesus gives forgiveness, grace, peace and hope

14. Santa gives conditionally – Jesus loves unconditionally

15. Santa is known for his red suit – Jesus is known for His cross

16. Santa visits the house once a year – Jesus lives in the heart 24/7

17. Santa checks if you are for naughty or nice – Jesus is the standard for naughty or nice

18. Santa died long ago and others pretend to be him – Jesus lives still and we have the power to imitate Him.

19. Santa enters the house through the chimney then leaves – Jesus enters our heart and stays forever.

20. Santa merely does his duty – Jesus loves us and died for us. Santa has become a legend, a myth – Jesus is the way, the truth & the life.

21. Santa is just a man – Jesus is the Son of God

22. Our Challenge Christmas abounds with opportunity to tell the message of Jesus – especially with the story of Nicolas of Myra. Tell His story!