It’s written in the Bible that the stars were put there for signs, at least in part, so condemning every act that could be interpreted as astrology is apparently not correct. The Bible is full of signs in the sun, moon and stars as well as astrological symbols. I tend to think that the condemnation centers upon those who seek personal gain, like Herod, rather than those who seek God. Others will no doubt disagree, it’s a controversial topic.
I’d evaluate the question of whether you can have “Christian astrology” partly on how the people who observe it actually act. If they act like they are so smugly smart, it ain’t God behind it.
Absolutely.
Genesis 1:14-19 (KJV)
14 And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years: 15 And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so. 16 And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also. 17 And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth, 18 And to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good. 19 And the evening and the morning were the fourth day.
Psalm 19:1-6 (KJV)
1 The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. 2 Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. 3 There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard. 4 Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun, 5 Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race. 6 His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.
Before man had the written Word, God gave him the plan of redemption in the stars. This was passed down, but quickly devolved into pagan mythology after Babel. If you follow the star names far enough back, you can still see traces of God's Truth. You will also note that all ancient civilizations studied the stars and shared nearly identical concepts of the constellations - revealing a single original source. This is not astrology or any other demonic activity. Stars were created by God. The knowledge they reveal (Psalm 19:2) confirms God's plan.
I also believe the Magi were folks who were both familiar with the Jewish prophecies, and the messages God placed in the stars. And I agree with others who suggested that Daniel was probably a source. I can't imagine three people arriving in Jerusalem would create much of a stir. I suspect it was a very large entourage for both safety and the care of these very important men. This would get Herod's attention.
There are several good books on the subject of God's plan in the stars. One of my favorites is, The Witness of the Stars - E. W. Bullinger. Its in the public domain and probably available for free to read online. Same goes for, The Gospel in the Stars or Primeval Astronomy - Joseph A. Seiss. Both will make you appreciate God's creative perfection even more.
Thanks to you all for your replies. You have given me something to think about this Christmas season.
And a Merry Christmas to you all.