Introduction

As materialism becomes more prevalent and spiritual values shift, it is important for the leadership of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Nigeria and Overseas to reconsider the practice of ostentatious birthday celebrations. This article highlights the need to reflect on biblical principles, the teachings of early church fathers, and the historical practices within CAC to uphold the church’s spiritual integrity. By avoiding extravagant celebrations, the church can focus on preserving its core values and enhancing its spiritual mission.

1. Biblical Perspective on Birthday Celebrations

The celebration of birthdays undeniably sparks a range of opinions and beliefs, especially when examined through a biblical lens. The Bible does not explicitly forbid or mandate birthday celebrations; however, it offers insights into the profound significance of life and the passage of time.

In biblical times, major events were marked by communal gatherings, feasting, and acts of remembrance, underscoring the inherent value of life and relationships. For instance, the Old Testament records the celebration of Pharaoh’s son’s birth with a grand feast (Genesis 40:20). Equally, the New Testament emphasizes the importance of commemorating significant milestones, such as coming of age or pivotal moments in one’s life journey.

From a faith-based standpoint, birthdays should be seen as an opportunity for reflection, gratitude, and recognition of God’s blessings in our lives. It is a moment to celebrate the journey that God has guided, to express heartfelt thanks for the gifts of life and love, and to reaffirm one’s commitment to living by biblical principles. By focusing on the deeper meaning behind the celebration, a simple birthday transforms into a moment of genuine spiritual significance.

Ultimately, while each individual or family may have their own approach to birthday celebrations, it is crucial to align these festivities with a sense of purpose and faith. Doing so not only enhances the experience but also deepens the connection to one’s beliefs and values.

Negative Examples in Scripture

The Bible presents two significant accounts of birthday celebrations that are notably associated with unjust rulers and tragic outcomes. The first instance occurs in the story of Pharaoh in Genesis 40:20-22. During a lavish celebration for his birthday, Pharaoh, driven by a whim, commanded the execution of his chief baker. This act of cruelty reveals the darker implications of celebrating one’s birthday in a context where power and justice are blatantly mismanaged.

The second notable example is found in the Gospel of Matthew, specifically in Matthew 14:6-10, where King Herod hosts a birthday feast. During this gathering, influenced by the dance of Herodias’s daughter, Herod rashly promises to grant her any wish. At her mother’s insistence, she requests the beheading of John the Baptist, a decision that Herod reluctantly carries out despite his moral hesitation. This tragic event underscores the perilous consequences tied to birthday celebrations in these biblical narratives.

Together, these accounts suggest that, within Scripture, birthday celebrations are often linked to moments of moral failing and violence rather than joy, righteousness, or spiritual elevation. The stories serve as cautionary tales reflecting the potential for festivities to accompany grave injustices and sorrow.

Absence of Righteous Celebrations

The lack of documented birthday celebrations among significant biblical figures indicates that the observance of such events was not ingrained in the spiritual culture of the righteous during that time. For instance, there are no recorded instances of Jesus celebrating his birthday or the birthdays of his Apostles. Similarly, prominent figures such as Moses, David, Paul, and John the Baptist also do not have any references to them marking their birth anniversaries. This absence suggests that birthday celebrations did not hold significance in the religious practices or traditions of these individuals and their communities. Instead, their lives were often celebrated through their contributions to faith, teachings, and the historical legacy they left behind, rather than by commemorating their entrance into the world.

2. Early Church Fathers’ Views

Origen (c. 185–254 AD)

Origen explicitly opposed birthday celebrations, stating:

“None of the saints is found to have celebrated a birthday. Only sinners like Pharaoh and Herod make great rejoicings over the day in which they were born into this world below.”

He viewed birthdays as worldly and self-centred, incompatible with Christian humility.

Origen was a notable figure who took a firm stand against the celebration of birthdays. He argued passionately that no saints in scripture participated in such festivities. For him, birthday celebrations were reserved for those he deemed sinful—like Pharaoh and Herod—who prided themselves on their day of birth. Origen viewed these celebrations as emblematic of a worldly and self-centred mindset, starkly contrasting with the humility that he believed was essential for Christians. In his eyes, indulging in such celebrations distracted from a more righteous path.

Other Church Fathers

Tertullian and Augustine, two pivotal figures in early Christian theology, placed significant emphasis on the concept of spiritual rebirth, viewing it as a far more significant event than mere physical birth. For them, the act of being spiritually reborn—typically signified through baptism—represented a transformative moment in one’s life, marking the beginning of a new existence in faith and communion with God.

In the context of the early church, this ideology translated into a cultural practice where the celebration of baptismal anniversaries eclipsed the recognition of natural birthdays. This shift not only underscored the theological importance of baptism as a rite of passage into the Christian community but also aligned with the early church’s overarching values of humility and spiritual focus.

The prioritisation of baptismal anniversaries reflects a profound commitment to recognising and celebrating the deeper, spiritual milestones of life. Rather than commemorating the day one entered the world through physical means, early Christians focused on the pivotal moment of rebirth in faith—a joyous recognition of the new life granted through divine grace. This cultural practice reveals a fascinating shift in societal values, emphasizing the importance of internal transformation and spiritual aspirations over the mere biological events that mark one’s physical existence.

3. CAC Historical Practice (1930s–1985)

The founding fathers of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), led by the inspiring Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, embodied a profound dedication to the principles of austerity and holiness. These visionary leaders understood that luxury and self-indulgence could lead individuals astray from their spiritual journey, detracting from the core values of their faith. In their unwavering commitment to spiritual integrity, they chose to forgo birthday celebrations, recognising these occasions as potential distractions that could nurture self-glorification and egoism.

Rather than concentrating on personal milestones, their collective efforts were passionately anchored in the revival, fervent prayer, and a commitment to living a life of holiness and evangelism. This dedication was evident in their relentless pursuit to spread the Gospel and inspire others to lead righteous lives. Their approach demonstrated a profound understanding of their spiritual mission and a genuine desire to prioritise communal worship and devotion over individual recognition. This focus on spiritual objectives over personal celebrations illuminated their unwavering commitment to the growth and flourishing of the Church and the well-being of its members.

4. Materialism and Modern Challenges

In today’s fast-paced world, materialism has become a dominating mindset that significantly influences individual behaviour and societal values. This concept firmly asserts that personal worth and social status stem primarily from the acquisition of material possessions—wealth, luxury goods, and outward appearances. As we confront the complexities of modern life, the challenges posed by materialism are not just significant; they demand our urgent attention, impacting our well-being, relationships, and the environment in profound ways.

Materialism fundamentally fosters a consumer-driven culture that prioritizes tangible assets over essential intangible qualities like character, kindness, and community engagement. This fixation on material wealth inevitably results in significant psychological issues, including anxiety, depression, and an overwhelming sense of dissatisfaction. Individuals find themselves in a relentless pursuit of more and better possessions, yet they never attain genuine fulfilment.

The emphasis on material wealth undeniably creates significant social disparities, fostering unhealthy competition rather than collaboration within communities. This divide leads to feelings of isolation and resentment among those who struggle to achieve the same level of material success, ultimately undermining communal bonds and societal cohesion.

Moreover, the environmental consequences of materialism are alarming. The relentless pursuit of new products drives unsustainable consumption patterns that deplete natural resources and exacerbate waste. The fashion industry, electronic devices, and fast food exemplify this cycle of overconsumption, prioritizing convenience and novelty at the expense of sustainability and ethical practices. It’s time to confront these issues head-on.

There is an increasing movement aimed at re-evaluating our connection with material possessions, emphasizing concepts like minimalism and mindful consumption. This shift encourages people to prioritize experiences over material belongings and promotes a lifestyle centred on sustainability and mindfulness. While materialism continues to play a significant role in contemporary life, it is important to recognize the challenges it presents. By redirecting our focus from accumulating wealth to pursuing richer, more meaningful experiences, we can foster healthier communities and support a more sustainable planet.

Concerns with Ostentatious Celebrations

Contemporary birthday celebrations among church leaders can result in several detrimental effects that may undermine the values of the church community. One significant concern is the promotion of materialism and vanity during these celebrations. When the focus shifts towards extravagant parties, lavish gifts, and ostentatious displays, it can create an environment that fosters class divisions among congregants.

Rather than emphasizing unity, love, and shared purpose, these celebrations may inadvertently encourage competition among leaders and members alike, pushing individuals to measure their worth through material possessions and social status. This shift has the potential to distract from the core mission of the church, which is spiritual growth and service to others.

In a church like the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), renowned for its deep-rooted values of simplicity, humility, and a strong dedication to spiritual depth, the trend of extravagant birthday celebrations is cause for concern. This church has a rich history of emphasizing selflessness and community service, and such celebrations can distract from these foundational principles. Rather than fostering an environment of generosity and collective purpose, the emphasis on personal glorification can encourage the adoption of worldly values that starkly contradict the church’s teachings. This shift away from core beliefs can significantly impact the church’s unity and mission moving forward.

5. Lessons and Solutions for CAC Leadership and Members

In the realm of leadership, it is essential to embrace humility that reflects the teachings and character of Christ, rather than seeking personal recognition or self-promotion. Effective leaders must prioritize the nurturing and celebration of spiritual milestones within their community. This includes emphasizing the significance of spiritual rebirth, recognizing ordination anniversaries, and highlighting the achievements of various missions that showcase their collective progress.

These moments are not just benchmarks; they are powerful opportunities to reaffirm the vital role of faith and commitment in our lives. Instilling the values of contentment and simplicity, as exemplified by the early fathers of the CAC (Christ Apostolic Church), is essential. By championing these values, leaders effectively guide individuals toward a more enriching and fulfilling spiritual journey, steering them away from the distractions of materialism and the relentless chase for worldly success. This approach cultivates a profound connection with God and fosters a vibrant community rooted in mutual support and shared faith.

Practical Solutions

The church has implemented specific guidelines that discourage extravagant birthday celebrations, advocating for a more humble and modest approach to marking this occasion. In lieu of opulent parties filled with excessive decorations and lavish gifts, members are encouraged to view birthdays as a meaningful opportunity to engage in charitable activities that benefit the community. This can include organizing food drives, volunteering at local shelters, or contributing to community projects that support those in need.

Furthermore, the church promotes the idea of gathering for prayer meetings or worship services on birthdays, allowing congregants to reflect on their lives, express gratitude, and seek spiritual growth. These gatherings can foster a sense of connection among members, as they come together to celebrate life in ways that align with their faith and values.

To ensure that everyone understands the reasoning behind these guidelines, the church also emphasises education. This includes discussions and teachings about the historical and theological foundations for such practices, offering insights into how modesty and service align with core Christian principles. Through this educational approach, members are encouraged to develop a deeper appreciation for the values of humility, gratitude, and community service that the church embodies. Such practices not only enrich individual lives but also strengthen the bonds within the church community, reflecting a shared commitment to living out their faith in a meaningful way.

Conclusion

Choosing to avoid extravagant birthday celebrations is a significant way to reflect one’s commitment to spiritual integrity rather than succumbing to the temptations of materialism. This perspective does not diminish the joy associated with such milestones; rather, it amplifies the importance of self-denial, humility, and a more profound spiritual focus.

Throughout history, the Bible and the writings of early church fathers have emphasized the value of prioritising spiritual growth over worldly possessions. They advocated for a lifestyle rooted in simplicity and devotion that aligns with the teachings of Christ. By forgoing lavish celebrations, individuals can foster an environment that nurtures deeper connections with God and fosters a sense of community built on shared values rather than material wealth.

This approach becomes especially relevant in today’s society, where materialism increasingly threatens to overshadow the fundamental messages of faith and devotion. It challenges believers to reflect on their priorities and encourages them to seek fulfilment beyond the superficial pleasures of this world. Embracing this mindset is a personal choice and a necessary and prophetic stance that resonates with the call to live out one’s faith authentically and intentionally. By emphasising spiritual wealth over material abundance, we nurture a deeper relationship with both God and one another.