Some parents tell their kids that Santa Claus is God to explain how he does the things he does. How does Santa come down the chimney? How does he know if you are bad or good? How does he make his rounds to every kid in one night? Why can’t I see him on Christmas Eve? These are just a few questions kids ask, leading parents to say that Santa is God. But Santa Claus is not God, and saying so can be harmful to faith.
Children notice that Santa sometimes doesn’t meet their desires, but God always provides for true needs. Kids also see that Santa varies from culture to culture. But God is no respecter of persons, regardless of gender, nationality, or circumstances (Galatians 3:28). Kids need to understand that Santa doesn’t create anything. The gifts they receive are made in workshops (factories) by elves (workers) and have brand names. God creates everything we see and are. Santa may bring toy animals, but God is the creator of all real animals.
Kids can learn that myths are a fun part of life. They eventually realize that Santa Claus is a fun myth, but they should be taught that God’s existence is factual and supported by scientific evidence. The Easter Bunny is a myth. Charlie Brown’s Great Pumpkin is a myth. What they see on TV, at Disney World, and in their video games are all myths. The Santa myth is enjoyable, but we must remember it is not real. It is vital that children know Santa Claus is not God.
Parents should not lie to their children, but sadly, lying has become common in America in advertising, politics, and relationships. Jesus never lied, and He used evidence to support His teachings. The miracles of Jesus were meant to prove who He was. He showed doubters like Thomas the evidence to support what they were asked to believe. Christianity is truth in a world that has very little of that commodity.
— John N. Clayton © 2025
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