25 Religious Christian Christmas Songs About Jesus and the Nativity Story

This is the ultimate list of 25 Christian Christmas songs so you can worship each and every day of December leading up to Christmas Day with Christian Christmas music! Enjoy and Merry Christmas!

I know you love Christmas music. Because everyone loves Christmas music.

And I also know you roll your eyes when your favorite music station starts blasting out Christmas tunes in mid-November, but you also secretly love it.

However, there are some Christmas songs I could definitely do without. Come mid-December, I am so sick of hearing, “Frosty the Snowman”, “Dominick The Italian Christmas Donkey”, and “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” that I end up turning off the radio and listening to the same Christmas playlists from last year.

I am a Christian, and I want to listen to Christian Christmas songs. Not songs about Santa. Not songs about Rudolph. And not songs about wanting a hippopotamus for Christmas or your two front teeth.

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If you’re looking for some great Christian Christmas music that will help keep you in the holiday mood, you’ve come to the right place.

I’ve compiled a list of 25 Christian Christmas songs for you to sing and/or listen to during the Christmas season.

All of these songs focus on Christ and the Nativity story. A lot of the songs listed are traditional Christmas hymns, but some are unique and less-popular Christian Christmas songs that you may not have heard before.

RELATED: 25+ Best Kid Nativity Sets

I’ve done all the work for you!

If you want to get a group together and go Christmas caroling at a nursing home, I’ve provided all the information on where to find the sheet music for the song, most of which you can pick up from places like Sheet Music Plus. I’ve also listed the lyrics, where you can listen to it, watch it, and the history and backstory of each song.

Listening to Christmas Christian songs is a great way to countdown to Christmas and help teach your kids the true reason for the season!

Christian Christmas Songs

1. Silent Night

Lyrics for this song from genius.com. Who doesn’t love the simple Christmas song, “Silent Night”?

Silent night, holy night!
All is calm, all is bright
Round yon Virgin, Mother and Child
Holy Infant so tender and mild
Sleep in heavenly peace
Sleep in heavenly peace

[Verse 2]
Silent night, holy night!
Shepherds quake at the sight
Glories stream from heaven afar
Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia!
Christ the Savior is born
Christ the Savior is born

[Verse 3]
Silent night, holy night!
Son of God, love’s pure light
Radiant beams from Thy holy face
With the dawn of redeeming grace
Jesus Lord, at Thy birth
Jesus Lord, at Thy birth

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

There are over 700 versions of Silent Night! So it really depends on what kind of singer you like. The two most popular renditions of Silent Night on iTunes are from Kelly Clarkson’s Christmas album “Wrapped in Red” and the version by Pentatonix. 

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music:

If you’re looking for a very simple, straightforward free piano sheet music, then this one from 8notes is your best bet. Otherwise, visit SheetMusicPlus.com.

History and backstory:

The song “Silent Night” was originally written in German and titled, “Stille Nacht”. My sister sang the original German version at a choir concert once, and it was fantastic! Such a beautiful song.

There’s a great video of The King’s Singers performing the song on YouTube.  Joseph Mohr wrote the lyrics and Franz Gruber set it to music. It was performed for the first time in 1818 at St. Nicholas Church.

2. O Holy Night

Most of the time the first and third verses are the ones that are sung in a pop version or radio version of “O Holy Night”.

Lyrics for this song found on carols.org.

O Holy Night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of the dear Saviour’s birth.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining.
Till He appeared and the Spirit felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angel voices!
O night divine, the night when Christ was born;
O night, O Holy Night , O night divine!
O night, O Holy Night , O night divine!

Led by the light of faith serenely beaming,
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.
O’er the world a star is sweetly gleaming,
Now come the wise men from out of the Orient land.
The King of kings lay thus lowly manger;
In all our trials born to be our friends.
He knows our need, our weakness is no stranger,
Behold your King! Before him lowly bend!
Behold your King! Before him lowly bend!

Truly He taught us to love one another,
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains he shall break, for the slave is our brother.
And in his name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
With all our hearts we praise His holy name.
Christ is the Lord! Then ever, ever praise we,
His power and glory ever more proclaim!
His power and glory ever more proclaim!

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

You can totally go with the popular Mariah Carey version of this song if you want, but I personally like the Christian singer Kerrie Roberts’ version on YouTube. Roberts’ voice is so beautiful and it’s a really nice arrangement of the song.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music:

Free Sacred Sheet Music has a bunch of different arrangements, depending on how you want to perform it. You can find all sorts of arrangements on SheetMusicPlus.com.

History and backstory:

“O Holy Night” has been around a long time.”O Holy Night” was composed by Adolphe Adam in 1847 to the French poem “Minuit, chrétiens” (Midnight, Christians) written by a wine merchant and poet, Placide Cappeau (1808–1877). . . . The song was premiered in Roquemaure in 1847 by the opera singer Emily Laurey.

Unitarian minister John Sullivan Dwight, editor of Dwight’s Journal of Music, translated the song into English lyrics in 1855.

RELATED: 12 FREE Printable Nativity Coloring Pages for Kids

3. Joy to the World

Lyrics for this song found on genius.com.

There are a lot of variations on the lyrics for “Joy to the World”. I know in my church we always sing, “And saints and angels sing” instead of “And heaven and nature sing” so I just picked a generic version for simplicity’s sake.

[Verse 1]
Joy to the world, the Lord has come!
Let earth receive her King
Let every heart prepare Him room
And Heaven and nature sing
And Heaven and nature sing
And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing

[Verse 2]
Joy to the World, the Savior reigns!
Let men their songs employ
While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains
Repeat the sounding joy
Repeat the sounding joy
Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy

[Verse 3]
No more let sins and sorrows grow
Nor thorns infest the ground
He comes to make His blessings flow
Far as the curse is found
Far as the curse is found
Far as, far as, the curse is found

[Verse 4]
He rules the world with truth and grace
And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness
And wonders of His love
And wonders of His love
And wonders, wonders, of His love

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

I really like the version by David Archuleta. It’s from his album “Christmas From the Heart”.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music:

You can get the sheet music for “Joy to the World” from 8notes.com if you want all 4 verses. You can find all sorts of arrangements on SheetMusicPlus.com.

History and backstory:

The words of the hymn are based on actual scriptures: Psalm 98, 96:11-12, and Genesis 3:17-18. They were compiled by English writer Isaac Watts, who wrote 750 hymns during his lifetime! The song was first published in 1719 in Watts’ collection The Psalms of David: Imitated in the language of the New Testament, and applied to the Christian state and worship.

4. Oh, Come, All Ye Faithful

Lyrics for this song found on churchofjesuschrist.org

Verse 1

O come, all ye faithful,
Joyful and triumphant,
O come ye,
O come ye to Bethlehem;
Come and behold Him
Born the King of angels;
O come, let us adore Him,
O come, let us adore Him,
O come, let us adore Him,
Christ, the Lord.

Verse 2
Sing, choirs of angels,
Sing in exultation,
Sing, all ye citizens
Of heaven above;
Glory to God,
Glory in the highest;
O come, let us adore Him,
O come, let us adore Him,
O come, let us adore Him,
Christ, the Lord.

Verse 3
Yea, Lord, we greet Thee,
Born this happy morning,
Jesus, to Thee be
All glory given;
Son of the Father,
Now in flesh appearing;
O come, let us adore Him,
O come, let us adore Him,
O come, let us adore Him,
Christ, the Lord.

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

Martina McBride’s version is really pretty! It’s from her album “White Christmas”. It’s not over-the-top or super “poppy” either, which is nice.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music: You can find the sheet music at hymnary.org for free! You can find all sorts of arrangements on SheetMusicPlus.com.

History and backstory:

“O Come, All Ye Faithful” was originally written in Latin as “Adeste Fideles”.  The song is attributed to various authors, including John Francis Wade (1711–1786), John Reading (1645–1692) and King John IV of Portugal (1604–1656). The English translation of “O Come, All Ye Faithful” was by the English Catholic priest Frederick Oakeley, written in 1841.

5. Angels We Have Heard on High

Lyrics for this song found on genius.com

[Verse 1]
Angels we have heard on high
Sweetly swinging o’er the plains
And the mountains in reply
Echoing their joyous strains

[Chorus]
Gloria In Excelsis Deo
Gloria In Excelsis Deo

[Verse 2]
Shepherds why this jubilee?
Why your joyous strains prolong?
Say what may the tidings be
Which inspire your heavenly song?

[Chorus]
Gloria In Excelsis Deo
Gloria In Excelsis Deo

[Verse 3]
Come to Bethlehem and see
Him Whose birth the angels sing;
Come, adore on bended knee
Christ the Lord, the newborn King

[Chorus]
Gloria In Excelsis Deo
Gloria In Excelsis Deo

[Verse 4]
See within in a manger laid
Jesus Lord of heav’n and earth
Mary, Joseph lend your aid
With us sing our Savior’s birth

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

The Piano Guys, Peter Hollens, David Archuleta, and The Mormon Tabernacle Choir sang a beautiful arrangement of “Angels We Have Heard On High” that you can watch here. It’s a little different than the original, straightforward version, so if you’re looking for that, then you might want to check out Josh Groban’s album Noel where he sings it with Brian McKnight.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music: 

Hymnary comes through again with free sheet music for “Angels We Have Heard on High”. You can find all sorts of arrangements on SheetMusicPlus.com.

History and backstory:

The lyrics to “Angels We Have Heard on High” were written by James Chadwick, Bishop of Hexham and Newcastle, to the music from a French song called Les Anges Dans Nos Campagnes. The music is the same, but the lyrics are considered a loose translation from French.

The song is based on the Gospel of Luke, specifically the scene in which shepherds outside Bethlehem encounter a multitude of angels singing and praising the newborn child.

6. Once in Royal David’s City

Lyrics for this song come from churchofjesuschrist.org

1. Once in royal David’s city
Stood a lowly cattle shed,
Where a mother laid her baby
In a manger for his bed:
Mary was that mother mild,
Jesus Christ her little child.

2. He came down to earth from heaven,
Who is God and Lord of all,
And his shelter was a stable,
And his cradle was a stall;
With the poor, and mean, and lowly,
Lived on earth our Savior holy.

3. And our eyes at last shall see him,
Through his own redeeming love;
For that child so dear and gentle
Is our Lord in heav’n above,
And he leads his children on
To the place where he is gone.

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

This song is usually sung by a choir, and in 2010 King’s College Cambridge sang it so beautifully. If you want a more up-tempo and poppy song, then Sufjan Stevens sang it on his album “Songs for Christmas”.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music:

You can find the sheet music for “Once in Royal David’s City” on hymnary.org. You can find all sorts of arrangements on SheetMusicPlus.com.

History and backstory:

“Once in Royal David’s City” was originally written as a poem by Cecil Frances Alexander. The carol was first published in 1848 in Miss Cecil Humphreys’ (her maiden name) hymnbook Hymns for little Children. A year later, English organist Henry John Gauntlett discovered the poem and put it to music. Cecil Alexander is also remembered for her hymn “All Things Bright and Beautiful”.

7. Away in a Manger

Lyrics for this song from churchofjesuschrist.org

1. Away in a manger, no crib for his bed,
The little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head;
The stars in the heavens looked down where he lay,
The little Lord Jesus, asleep on the hay.

2. The cattle are lowing; the poor baby wakes,
But little Lord Jesus, no crying he makes.
I love thee, Lord Jesus; look down from the sky
And stay by my cradle till morning is nigh.

3. Be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask thee to stay
Close by me forever, and love me, I pray.
Bless all the dear children in thy tender care,
And fit us for heaven to live with thee there.

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

I really enjoyed listening to Martina McBride’s version of “Away in a Manger” from her album “White Christmas”.  If you want something more upbeat, the a cappella group Pentatonix has a cool arrangement of the song on their album, “A Pentatonix Christmas (Deluxe)”.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music:

For the traditional version of “Away in a Manger”, you can get the sheet music on hymnary. You can find all sorts of arrangements on SheetMusicPlus.com.

History and backstory:

“Away in a Manger” was first published in the late nineteenth century. Many people thought German religious reformer Martin Luther wrote the lyrics, but it is now thought to be wholly American in origin. The two most-common musical settings are by William J. Kirkpatrick (1895) and James Ramsey Murray (1887). Researchers have not yet confirmed the original lyricist(s).

8. It Came Upon the Midnight Clear

Lyrics for this song from carols.org.

Verse 1

It came upon the midnight clear,
That glorious song of old,
From angels bending near the earth,
To touch their harps of gold:
“Peace on the earth, goodwill to men
From heavens all gracious King!”
The world in solemn stillness lay
To hear the angels sing.

Verse 2

Still through the cloven skies they come,
With peaceful wings unfurled;
And still their heavenly music floats
O’er all the weary world:
Above its sad and lowly plains
They bend on hovering wing,
And ever o’er its Babel sounds
The blessed angels sing.

Verse 3

O ye beneath life’s crushing load,
Whose forms are bending low,
Who toil along the climbing way
With painful steps and slow;
Look now, for glad and golden hours
Come swiftly on the wing;
Oh rest beside the weary road
And hear the angels sing.

Verse 4

For lo! the days are hastening on,
By prophets seen of old,
When with the ever-circling years
Shall come the time foretold,
When the new heaven and earth shall own
The Prince of Peace, their King,
And the whole world send back the song
Which now the angels sing.

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square has an amazing rendition of this song that you can watch on YouTube. There’s also a pretty version by pop/soul artist Norah Jones.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music:

You can get the sheet music from Hymnary.org. You can find all sorts of arrangements on SheetMusicPlus.com.

History and backstory:

“It Came Upon the Midnight Clear” (1849), or “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear”, is a poem and Christmas carol written by Edmund Sears, pastor of the Unitarian Church in Wayland, Massachusetts. Sears’ lyrics are most commonly set to “Noel,” adapted by Arthur Sullivan from an English melody (in Commonwealth countries), or to “Carol,” composed by Richard Storrs Willis (in the United States).

RELATED: Where to Find Nativity Costumes for Your Christmas Play

9. We Three Kings

Lyrics for this song from genius.com.

[Verse 1: All]
We three kings of orient are
Bearing gifts we traverse afar
Field and fountain
Moor and mountain
Following yonder star

[Chorus: All]
O star of wonder, star of night
Star with royal beauty bright
Westward leading, still proceeding
Guide us to thy perfect light

[Verse 2]
Born a King on Bethlehem’s plain
Gold I bring to crown Him again
King for ever, ceasing never
Over us all to reign

[Chorus: All]

[Verse 3]
Frankincense to offer have I
Incense owns a Deity nigh
Prayer and praising, all men raising
Worship Him, God most high

[Chorus: All]

[Verse 4]
Myrrh is mine
Its bitter perfume breathes
A life of gathering gloom
Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying
Sealed in the stone cold tomb

[Chorus: All]

[Verse 5: All]
Glorious now behold Him arise
King and God and Sacrifice!
Al-le-lu-ia, al-le-lu-ia
Heaven to earth replies

[Chorus: All]
O star of wonder, star of night
Star with royal beauty bright
Westward leading, still proceeding
Guide us to thy perfect light

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

There’s a great version of “We Three Kings” sung by The Barenaked Ladies featuring Sarah McLachlan, which is actually a mash-up of “We Three Kings” and, “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen”. You can also watch a fun instrumental version on YouTube of The Piano Guys playing the song at an ice skating rink.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music:

You can get the sheet music for “We Three Kings” on 8notes.com. You can find all sorts of arrangements on SheetMusicPlus.com.

History and backstory:

“We Three Kings”, is also known as “We Three Kings of Orient Are” or “The Quest of the Magi”. It was written in 1857 by John Henry Hopkins Jr. When he wrote the song, Hopkins served as the rector of Christ Episcopal Church in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, and he wrote the carol for a Christmas pageant in New York City.

10. O Little Town of Bethlehem

Lyrics for this song from churchofjesuschrist.org

1. O little town of Bethlehem,
How still we see thee lie.
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep
The silent stars go by;
Yet in thy dark streets shineth
The everlasting Light.
The hopes and fears of all the years
Are met in thee tonight.

2. For Christ is born of Mary,
And, gathered all above
While mortals sleep, the angels keep
Their watch of wond’ring love.
O morning stars, together
Proclaim the holy birth,
And praises sing to God the King,
And peace to men on earth.

3. How silently, how silently
The wondrous gift is giv’n!
So God imparts to human hearts
The blessings of his heav’n.
No ear may hear his coming;
But in this world of sin,
Where meek souls will receive him, still
The dear Christ enters in.

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

Pop artist Jewel sings this song on her album “Joy: A Holiday Collection”. It’s a pretty rendition of the song, as is the old-timey Nat King Cole version here.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music:

You can get the sheet music from hymnary.org. You can find other arrangements for various instruments at Sheet Music Plus.

History and backstory:

The words were written by Phillips Brooks (1835–1893), an Episcopal priest. His lyrics were inspired after he visited the village of Bethlehem in 1865. Three years later, he wrote the poem for his church, and his organist Lewis Redner (1831-1908) added the music.

11. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

Lyrics for this song come from genius.com.

Verse 1

Hark! the herald angels sing:
“Glory to the newborn King!
Peace on earth and mercy mild
God and sinners reconciled”
Joyful, all ye nations rise
Join the triumph of the skies
With angelic hosts proclaim:
“Christ is born in Bethlehem”
Hark! the herald angels sing:
“Glory to the newborn King!”

Verse 2

Christ by highest heav’n adored
Christ the everlasting Lord!
Late in time behold Him come
Offspring of a Virgin’s womb
Veiled in flesh the Godhead see;
Hail the incarnate Deity
Pleased as man with man to dwell
Jesus, our Emmanuel
Hark! the herald angels sing:
“Glory to the newborn King!”

Verse 3

Hail the heav’n-born Prince of Peace!
Hail the Son of Righteousness!
Light and life to all He brings
Ris’n with healing in His wings
Mild He lays His glory by
Born that man no more may die
Born to raise the sons of earth
Born to give them second birth
Hark! the herald angels sing:
“Glory to the newborn King!”

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

I am a huge fan of Carrie Underwood, and I love pretty much anything she sings. Her version of this song is really pretty! I also can’t help but think of A Charlie Brown Christmas when I hear this song.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music:  You can get the sheet music from hymnary.org or from Sheet Music Plus.

History and backstory:

The lyrics to this song were originally written by Charles Wesley and appeared in a 1739 collection of songs called Hymns and Sacred Poems. Wesley’s co-worker George Whitefield changed the opening couplet to the familiar one, and Felix Mendelssohn’s melody was used for the lyrics.

12. With Wondering Awe

Lyrics for this song come from churchofjesuschrist.org

1. With wond’ring awe the wisemen saw
The star in heaven springing,
And with delight, in peaceful night,
They heard the angels singing:
Hosanna, hosanna, hosanna to his name!

2. By light of star they traveled far
To seek the lowly manger,
A humble bed wherein was laid
The wondrous little Stranger.
Hosanna, hosanna, hosanna to his name!

3. And still is found, the world around,
The old and hallowed story,
And still is sung in ev’ry tongue
The angels’ song of glory:
Hosanna, hosanna, hosanna to his name!

4. The heav’nly star its rays afar
On ev’ry land is throwing,
And shall not cease till holy peace
In all the earth is growing.

Hosanna, hosanna, hosanna to his name!

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

Since this song is less well-known than others, there are not many versions out there! I liked this one from The Debra Fotheringham Band.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music:  You can get the sheet music from Free LDS sheet music.org. 

History and backstory:

You may not be super familiar with this hymn if you’re not a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It’s been in the LDS hymnbook for as long as I can remember. From Deseret News:

“Of all of the Christmas hymns in the LDS hymnbook, this one has perhaps the most ambiguous origins. “Laudis Corona” is the name of a Boston hymn collection that was published in 1885. Text and music: Anonymous (Laudis Corona, 1885).”

13. While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks

Lyrics for this song from churchofjesuschrist.org

1. While shepherds watch’d their flocks by night,
All seated on the ground,
The angel of the Lord came down,
And glory shone around.
“Fear not,” said he, for mighty dread
Had seized their troubled mind;
“Glad tidings of great joy I bring
To you and all mankind.”

2. “To you, in David’s town this day,
Is born of David’s line
The Savior who is Christ the Lord,
And this shall be the sign:
The heav’nly Babe you there shall find
To human view displayed,
All meanly wrapped in swathing bands,
And in a manger laid.”

3. Thus spake the seraph, and forthwith
Appeared a shining throng
Of angels praising God, who thus
Addressed their joyful song:
“All glory be to God on high
And on the earth be peace.
Goodwill henceforth from heav’n to men
Begin and never cease.”

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

This is another song that isn’t performed by your usual pop artists. There is a simple, beautiful version of it on YouTube by Sally DeFord and Heather Prusse.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music: You can get this sheet music from lds.org or hymnary.org.

History and backstory: 

English Poet-laureate Nahum Tate teamed up with his friend Nicholas Brady to publish collections of hymns based on Psalms. One volume, published in 1700, included 16 hymns based on other scriptural passages, including this hymn, which is based on Luke 2:8-14. This song can be sung to a few different tunes, but the “Yorkshire Melody” is one of the most common.

14. Far, Far Away on Judea’s Plains

Lyrics for this song from churchofjesuschrist.org

1. Far, far away on Judea’s plains,
Shepherds of old heard the joyous strains:
Glory to God,
Glory to God,
Glory to God in the highest;
Peace on earth, goodwill to men;
Peace on earth, goodwill to men!

2. Sweet are these strains of redeeming love,
Message of mercy from heav’n above:
Glory to God,
Glory to God,
Glory to God in the highest;
Peace on earth, goodwill to men;
Peace on earth, goodwill to men!

3. Lord, with the angels we too would rejoice;
Help us to sing with the heart and voice:
Glory to God,
Glory to God,
Glory to God in the highest;
Peace on earth, goodwill to men;
Peace on earth, goodwill to men!

4. Hasten the time when, from ev’ry clime,
Men shall unite in the strains sublime:
Glory to God,
Glory to God,
Glory to God in the highest;
Peace on earth, goodwill to men;
Peace on earth, goodwill to men!

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

Nancy Hanson has a nice country-style version of this song here. If you’re looking for a choir version of this song, then here’s a video of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir singing it.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music:

You can get the sheet music from Free LDS Sheet Music.org.

History and backstory:

The text and music for this song are by LDS choir director John Menzies Macfarlane who lived in St. George. In 1869, he decided his choir needed a new Christmas song. The words and music came to Macfarlane in the middle of the night.

15. The First Noel

Lyrics for this song come from carols.org.

The First Noel, the Angels did say
Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay
In fields where they lay keeping their sheep
On a cold winter’s night that was so deep.
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel
Born is the King of Israel!

They looked up and saw a star
Shining in the East beyond them far
And to the earth it gave great light
And so it continued both day and night.
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel
Born is the King of Israel!

And by the light of that same star
Three Wise men came from country far
To seek for a King was their intent
And to follow the star wherever it went.
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel
Born is the King of Israel!

This star drew nigh to the northwest
O’er Bethlehem it took its rest
And there it did both Pause and stay
Right o’er the place where Jesus lay.
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel
Born is the King of Israel!

Then entered in those Wise men three
Full reverently upon their knee
And offered there in His presence
Their gold and myrrh and frankincense.
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel
Born is the King of Israel!

Then let us all with one accord
Sing praises to our heavenly Lord
That hath made Heaven and earth of nought
And with his blood mankind has bought.
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel
Born is the King of Israel!

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

I like Lady Antebellum’s rendition of this song the most! Josh Groban and Faith Hill also sing it beautifully. They’ve got a choir in the background that makes the ending really awesome.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music:  Hymnary.org has the sheet music for free. You can find a ton of other compositions at Sheet Music Plus.

History and backstory:

“The First Noel” is a traditional classical English Christmas carol, of Cornish origin. The version we know today was first published in Carols Ancient and Modern (1823) and Gilbert and Sandys Carols (1833), both of which were edited by William Sandys and arranged, edited and with extra lyrics written by Davies Gilbert for Hymns and Carols of God. Today, it is usually performed in a four-part hymn arrangement by the English composer John Stainer, first published in his Carols, New and Old in 1871.

16. O Come, O Come Emmanuel

Lyrics for this song from genius.com.

There are 7 verses of this song, but I only listed the first three here.

[Verse 1]
O come, O come, Emmanuel
And ransom captive Israel
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear

[Refrain]
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel

[Verse 2]
O come, O come, Thou Lord of might
Who to Thy tribes, on Sinai’s height
In ancient times didst give the law
In cloud, and majesty and awe

[Refrain]
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel

[Verse 3]
O come, Thou Rod of Jesse, free
Thine own from Satan’s tyranny
From depths of hell Thy people save
And give them victory o’er the grave

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

Enya’s rendition of this song is beautifully haunting and she sings it in both English and Latin. If you haven’t heard it before, you can listen to it here or here.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music: You can get the sheet music from 8notes.com. You can find additional versions at Sheet Music Plus.

RELATED: 40+ Nativity Advent Calendars to Help You Focus on the Savior All December

History and backstory:

“O come, O come, Emmanuel” is a Christian hymn for Advent and Christmas. It is a translation of a Latin hymn, “Veni, veni, Emmanuel”. The 1861 translation from Hymns Ancient and Modern is the most prominent by far in the English-speaking world, but other English translations also exist.

17. Mary, Did You Know?

Lyrics for this song from google.com

Mary did you know that your baby boy would one day walk on water?
Mary did you know that your baby boy would save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that your baby boy has come to make you new?
This child that you’ve delivered, will soon deliver you

Mary did you know that your baby boy will give sight to a blind man?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will calm a storm with his hand?
Did you know that your baby boy has walked where angels trod?
When you kiss your little baby, you kiss the face of God

Mary did you know? Mary did you know? Mary did you know?
Mary did you know? Mary did you know? Mary did you know?
The blind will see, the deaf will hear, the dead will live again
The lame will leap, the dumb will speak, the praises of the lamb

Mary did you know that your baby boy is Lord of all creation?
Mary did you know that your baby boy would one day rule the nations?
Did you know that your baby boy is heaven’s perfect lamb?
That sleeping child you’re holding is the great I am

Mary did you know? Mary did you know? Mary did you know?
Mary did you know? Mary did you know? Mary did you know? Mary did you know?

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

On the album, ‘That’s Christmas to Me” a cappella group Pentatonix sings, “Mary, Did You Know?” and it’s the most popular version of the song right now on both iTunes and YouTube.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music:

I couldn’t find the sheet music for free, but you can buy it off of musicnotes.com for about $5. You can find other arrangements on Sheet Music Plus as well.

History and backstory:

Lyrics for “Mary, Did You Know? were written by Mark Lowry and the music was written by Buddy Greene. It was originally recorded by Christian recording artist Michael English on his self-titled debut solo album in 1991. The song has since been recorded by many artists over the years across multiple genres.

18. Breath of Heaven (Mary’s Song)

Lyrics for this song from google.com.

I have traveled many moonless nights
Cold and weary with a babe inside
And I wonder what I’ve done
Holy father you have come
And chosen me now to carry your son
I am waiting in a silent prayer
I am frightened by the load I bear
In a world as cold as stone
Must I walk this path alone?

Be with me now
Be with me now
Breath of heaven
Hold me together
Be forever near me
Breath of heaven
Breath of heaven
Lighten my darkness
Pour over me your holiness
For you are holy
Breath of heaven

Do you wonder as you watch my face
If a wiser one should have had my place
But I offer all I am
For the mercy of your plan
Help me be strong
Help me be
Help me

Breath of heaven
Hold me together
Be forever near me
Breath of heaven
Breath of heaven
Lighten my darkness
Pour over me your holiness
For you are holy
Breath of heaven
Hold me together
Be forever near me
Breath of heaven
Breath of heaven
Lighten my darkness
Pour over me your holiness
For you are holy
Breath of heaven
Breath of heaven
Breath of heaven

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

I grew up listening to Amy Grant. My parents absolutely loved her. We had her Christmas album “Home for Christmas” on repeat every Christmas season. I love this song because it’s a Christmas song from Mary’s perspective. You can listen to “Breath of Heaven” here.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music:

I couldn’t find this anywhere for free, but you can buy the sheet music from musicnotes.com. This is more of a solo for a woman to sing in church instead of a group number. You can find other arrangements on Sheet Music Plus.

History and backstory: Chris Eaton and Christian singer/songwriter Amy Grant wrote this song. Eaton was a member of Amy Grant’s touring band and also her good friend. Amy Grant took the lyrics that Eaton had written and changed them to fit Mary’s perspective and made it a Christmas song that has now been recorded by various artists.

19. What Child is This?

Lyrics for this song from google.com

There are many versions of this song, but the lyrics below are from the Josh Groban rendition.

What Child is this
Who laid to rest
On Mary’s lap is sleeping?
Whom Angels greet with anthems sweet,
While shepherds watch are keeping?
So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh,
Come Peasant, King to own Him
The King of Kings salvation brings,
Let loving hearts enthrone Him.

This, this is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and Angels sing
Haste, haste, to bring Him laud,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.

Oh, raise, raise a song on high,
His mother sings her lullaby.
Joy, oh joy for Christ is born,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.
This, this is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and Angels sing
Haste, haste, to bring Him laud,
The Babe,
The Son,
Of Mary.

What Child
Is this
Who laid
To rest
On Mary’s lap
On Mary’s lap
He is sleeping
This, this is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and Angels sing

Haste, haste, to bring Him laud,
The Babe,
The Son,
Of Mary
The Babe, the Son of Mary
The Son of Mary

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

This is such a beautiful song! I like so many different versions of this song. You can listen to Josh Groban sing it here. Or Carrie Underwood here. Or if you want an instrumental version, watch/listen to this one by Lindsey Stirling.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music:

You can get the sheet music on SacredSheetMusic.org. Also, if you didn’t know, the song “What Child is This?” is sung to the tune of “Greensleeves”, so you could also get sheet music for that song. Find other versions on Sheet Music Plus too.

History and backstory:

The lyrics for “What Child is This?” were written by William Chatterton Dix, in 1865. At the time of composing the carol, Dix was recovering from a severe illness. He underwent a spiritual renewal that led him to write several hymns, including these lyrics. Although it was written in Great Britain, the carol is more popular in the United States.

20. Do You Hear What I Hear?

Lyrics for this song from lyricsmode.com.

Said the night wind to the little lamb,
Do you see what I see
Way up in the sky, little lamb,
Do you see what I see
A star, a star, dancing in the night
With a tail as big as a kite
With a tail as big as a kite

Said the little lamb to the shepherd boy,
Do you hear what I hear
Ringing through the sky, shepherd boy,
Do you hear what I hear
A song, a song, high above the trees
With a voice as big as the sea
With a voice as big as the sea

Said the shepherd boy to the mighty king,
Do you know what I know
In your palace warm, mighty king,
Do you know what I know
A Child, a Child shivers in the cold
Let us bring Him silver and gold
Let us bring Him silver and gold

Said the king to the people everywhere,
Listen to what I say
Pray for peace, people everywhere!
Listen to what I say
The Child, the Child, sleeping in the night
He will bring us goodness and light
He will bring us goodness and light

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

The Bing Crosby version is played on the radio a lot. You can listen to it here. I also like when Carrie Underwood sings it! In case you can’t tell, I’m a huge Carrie fan. You can listen to her sing it here.
Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music: 

You can buy the sheet music for about $5 from musicnotes.com or SheetMusicPlus.com.

History and backstory:

This song was written in October 1962, with lyrics by Noël Regney and music by Gloria Shayne Baker. Regney was invited by a record producer to write a Christmas song. Bing Crosby recorded his own version of the song on October 21, 1963, which made the song into a hit.

21. A Christmas Alleluia (Chris Tomlin (feat. Lauren Daigle & Leslie Jordan))

Lyrics for this song from azlyrics.com.

Alleluia, alleluia
Christ, the Savior of the world
He has come!
Alleluia, alleluia
Alleluia, alleluia
Christ, the Savior of the world
He has come!
Alleluia, alleluia

The heavens roar, the angels sing
All glory to our God and King!
O night divine forever more
The heavens roar, the angels sing
All glory to our God and King!
O night divine forever more

Alleluia, alleluia
Christ, the Savior of the world
He has come!
Alleluia, alleluia
To the highest name of all
Alleluia!

You’re the Highest name of all
Alleluia!

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

This song is from Chris Tomlin’s album “Adore: Christmas Songs Of Worship”. You can watch it on YouTube here or listen on iTunes here.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music:

You can find the sheet music for this song on praisecharts.com.

History and backstory:

“A Christmas Alleluia” is an original song written for Chris Tomlin’s album “Adore: Christmas Songs Of Worship” that was released in October 2015. The song was written by Jonas Myrin and Chris Tomlin.

22. “Born Is the King (It’s Christmas)” by Hillsong Worship

Lyrics for this song from azlyrics.com.

Born unto us this day a Saviour
Gifted from heaven to a manger
The hope of the world
A light for all mankind
All of the earth rejoice
It’s Christmas time

So lift up your voice and sing out His praise
It’s Christmas
Born is the King, rejoice in the day
It’s Christmas
Make a joyful sound
It’s Christmas
Let His praise resound
It’s Christmas

Goodwill to all the earth
And peace divine
All of the earth rejoice
It’s Christmas time
It’s Christmas time

So lift up your voice and sing out His praise
It’s Christmas
Born is the King, rejoice in the day
It’s Christmas
Make a joyful sound
It’s Christmas
Let His praise resound
It’s Christmas

So lift up your voice and sing out His praise
It’s Christmas
Born is the King, rejoice in the day
It’s Christmas
Make a joyful sound
It’s Christmas
Let His praise resound
It’s Christmas

So lift up your voice and sing out His praise
It’s Christmas
Born is the King, rejoice in the day
It’s Christmas
Make a joyful sound
It’s Christmas
Let His praise resound
It’s Christmas

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

This song is super up-tempo for a Christmas carol, which makes it fun and unique. You can buy it on iTunes here or on YouTube here. You can also get it on Amazon music here.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music:

You can buy the sheet music from praisecharts.com.

History and backstory:

“Born is the King (It’s Christmas)” is an original song by the Australian Christian group Hillsong Worship. It was on their album “Born is the King” released in 2011. The words and music are by Matt Crocker and Scott Ligertwood.

23. Go Tell It On The Mountain

Lyrics for this song from genius.com

Go, tell it on the mountain
Over the hills and everywhere
Go, tell it on the mountain
That Jesus Christ is born!

While shepherds kept their watching
O’er their silent flocks night
Behold throughout the heavens
There shone a holy light

Go, tell it on the mountain
Over the hills and everywhere
Go, tell it on the mountain
That Jesus Christ is born!

The shepherds feared and trembled
When lo! Above the Earth
Rang out the angel chorus
That hailed our Savior’s birth

Go, tell it on the mountain
Over the hills and everywhere
Go, tell it on the mountain
That Jesus Christ is born!

Down in a lowly manger
Our humble Christ was born
And God sent us salvation
That blessed Christmas morn

Go, tell it on the mountain
Over the hills and everywhere
Go, tell it on the mountain
That Jesus Christ is born!

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

I like the way country music artist Sara Evans sings this song, but there are a lot of different recordings by various artists if you don’t like her version!

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music: 

You can get the sheet music for free from hymnary.org and other arrangements on SheetMusicPlus.com.

RELATED: The Most Beautiful Nativity Ornaments You Can Buy or Make

History and backstory:

“Go Tell It on the Mountain” is an African-American spiritual song.  John Wesley Work, Jr. compiled this song, and it dates back to at least 1865. This song has been sung and recorded by many gospel and secular performers.

24. All is Well (Michael W. Smith feat. Carrie Underwood)

Lyrics for this song from google.com.

All is well all is well
Angels and men rejoice
For tonight darkness fell
Into the dawn of love’s light
Sing Ale
Sing Alleluia
All is well all is well

Let there be peace on earth
Christ’s come go and tell
That He is in the manger
Sing Ale
Sing Alleluia
All is well all is well

Lift up your voices and sing
Born is now Emmanuel
Born is our Lord and Savior
Sing Alleluia
Sing Alleluia
All is well

Born is now Emmanuel
Born is our Lord and Savior
Sing Alleluia
Sing Alleluia
All is well

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

You can buy this beautiful Christmas song from iTunes here. You can also listen to it or watch the lyric video on YouTube here.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music:

You can buy the sheet music from SheetMusicPlus.com.

History and backstory of each song:

This is an original song written by Michael W. Smith and Wayne Kirkpatrick. It is from the album “Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas”, which is a duet Christmas album by Christian recording artist Michael W. Smith, released on September 30, 2014.

25. Noel (Chris Tomlin ft. Lauren Daigle)

Lyrics for this song from google.com.

Love incarnate, love divine
Star and angels gave the sign
Bow to babe on bended knee
The Savior of humanity
Unto us a Child is born
He shall reign forevermore

Noel, Noel
Come and see what God has done
Noel, Noel
The story of amazing love!
The light of the world, given for us
Noel

Son of God and Son of man
There before the world began
Born to suffer, born to save
Born to raise us from the grave
Christ the everlasting Lord
He shall reign forevermore

Noel, Noel
Come and see what God has done
Noel, Noel
The story of amazing love!
The light of the world, given for us
Noel
Noel, Noel

Come and see what God has done
Noel, Noel
The story of amazing love!
The light of the world, given for us
Noel, Noel

Where to Download, Listen, or Watch:

After I watched this video on YouTube of Lauren Daigle singing this song, I knew I had to include it on this list of Christian Christmas songs. The melody and lyrics are truly enchanting and slightly haunting. This song will really stay with you. You can listen on iTunes too.

Where to buy this Christian Christmas sheet music:

You can get the sheet music from SheetMusicPlus.com.

History and backstory:

“Noel” is from Chris Tomlin’s album “Adore: Christmas Songs of Worship”. When talking about the album to Billboard, Tomlin said he had Lauren Daigle in mind when writing the tune. “It’s probably the first song that I have ever written where that happened, but writing this track, I just envisioned Lauren singing it all-along,” he said. “I’m thankful she agreed to record it.”

The song was written by Chris Tomlin with his producer Ed Cash and English worship singer-songwriter Matt Redman.

Other Christian Christmas songs that didn’t make the list, but you should check out!

• Little Drummer Boy sang by Pentatonix
• God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen sang by The Glee Cast
• Hallelujah (Light Has Come) sung by BarlowGirl
• Joseph’s Lullaby sang by MercyMe
• Light of the World sang by Lauren Daigle

I hope this list of Christian Christmas music makes your holiday season spiritual and special! Merry Christmas!