Every February 14th, the world turns its focus toward love and friendship. Flowers, chocolates, and heartfelt gestures become the norm as people celebrate what is widely known as Valentine’s Day. But among Christians, this day often sparks a debate: Should Christians celebrate Valentine’s Day? Does God disapprove? Are we more righteous if we choose not to acknowledge it?
This piece came to mind while studying Galatians this morning—the same seeks to explore the historical, biblical, and theological perspectives surrounding this topic—providing clarity while removing unnecessary condemnation.
The History of Valentine’s Day: Pagan or Christian?
One common argument against celebrating Valentine’s Day is that it has pagan origins. Some claim that it stems from the Roman festival Lupercalia, a fertility festival held in mid-February, which involved rituals to ward off evil spirits and encourage fertility. However, others trace Valentine’s Day to Saint Valentine, a Christian martyr from the third century. Historical accounts vary, but one legend suggests that Valentine was a priest who secretly performed Christian marriages when Emperor Claudius II had forbidden them. He was later executed for his faith, and over time, his name became associated with expressions of love.
While some aspects of the day may have historical ties to pagan customs, this alone does not make the celebration inherently sinful. Many aspects of modern life—including the names of the days of the week (e.g., Thursday, named after Thor)—have pagan roots, yet Christians use them without issue. The key question is: Does the way we celebrate align with biblical principles?
What Does the Bible Say About Celebrating Love and Friendship?
The Bible does not mention Valentine’s Day specifically, but it has plenty to say about love:
1. God is love – “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” (1 John 4:8)
2. Romantic love is a gift from God – “Enjoy life with the wife whom you love, all the days of your vain life that he has given you under the sun.” (Ecclesiastes 9:9)
3. Friendship and brotherly love are biblical – “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” (Proverbs 17:17)
4. Christians are called to love daily, not just one day a year – “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:35)
There is nothing inherently sinful about setting aside a special day to express love, appreciation, and kindness—whether to a spouse, family member, or friend. The world has chosen February 14, just as the world has chosen December 25th as the birth of Jesus. Many are against it, and call it pagan—but ultimately we are celebrating love, and life. The key is to ensure that our actions honor God and align with His commandments.
Does God Get Angry If We Celebrate Love on February 14?
Nowhere in Scripture does God condemn setting aside a specific day for love and friendship. What does concern God is:
• Idolatry: If we elevate any holiday above our devotion to Him (Exodus 20:3-5). Then we may have a very sadden heart of Christ.
• Sexual immorality: If celebrations lead to sinful behavior (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5).
• Hypocrisy: If we claim righteousness by abstaining from a holiday but still engage in its practices privately (Matthew 23:27-28).
Simply put, if your observance of Valentine’s Day aligns with godly principles—expressing pure love, gratitude, and kindness—there is no biblical reason to assume God is angry with you.
Are We More Righteous for Avoiding Valentine’s Day?
Some Christians choose to avoid Valentine’s Day entirely, either renaming it (e.g., “Love and Friendship Day”) or ignoring it altogether. But does this make them more righteous?
Jesus warned against legalism—placing unnecessary burdens on others while missing the heart of God’s commands (Matthew 23:23-24). Paul also addressed this issue in Colossians 2:16-17:
“Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.”
If a believer chooses not to celebrate Valentine’s Day out of personal conviction, that’s their right (Romans 14:5-6). However, it does not make them more spiritually mature than those who choose to acknowledge the day in a way that honors God. Righteousness comes from faith in Christ, not from avoiding specific dates.
Do Some Christians Secretly Celebrate Valentine’s Day?
It’s interesting that some Christians who publicly condemn Valentine’s Day still exchange gifts or spend time with their loved ones in private. This raises the question: If celebrating is truly wrong, why participate in it at all?
This echoes what Jesus rebuked in the Pharisees—outward appearances of righteousness while privately engaging in the same practices they condemned (Matthew 6:1-4). If a person believes celebrating is wrong, they should remain consistent rather than secretly participating while judging others who do.
Final Thoughts: Removing Condemnation
Rather than debating whether Valentine’s Day is “right” or “wrong,” Christians should ask themselves:
1. Does my celebration honor God and reflect biblical love?
2. Am I acting in love and not judgment toward others who choose differently?
3. Am I being consistent in my beliefs and actions?
Ultimately, God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). If we choose to express love and appreciation on February 14th, we should do so with a pure heart, free from idolatry, immorality, or hypocrisy. If we choose not to celebrate, we should avoid self-righteousness and judgment toward those who do.
As Christians, our love—whether Eros (romantic love), Philia (brotherly love and deep friendship), Storge (familial love), or Agape (unconditional, godly love)—should not be confined to a single day. While Valentine’s Day may provide an opportunity to express love in a special way, love itself is meant to be a daily lifestyle.
The greatest example of love is found in Agape, the sacrificial love of Christ. Jesus demonstrated this ultimate love when He laid down His life for us (John 15:13). Whether we choose to celebrate Valentine’s Day or not, our goal should be to reflect Agape—a love that is pure, selfless, and rooted in Christ—every day of the year.
“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:13)
Praying that love never lacks in your heart, and is always present in everything you do.
©️2025 Denise Kilby New Hope MHCLC. All rights reserved.
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