Halloween seems to be one of the most problematic times of the year for church. What are we supposed to do with this holiday? Some Christians choose to participate in the festivities of Halloween in some form or another. Still others who are concerned about the dark theme and demonic imagery that surrounds this holiday, not to mention its pagan origins, refuse to participate.
However, the question remains: “How should Christians respond to Halloween?”
Travis Allen, who is the Director of Internet Ministry for Grace To You, has written a very helpful article titled “Christians and Halloween” that I think lends us some wisdom for this conundrum.
First, as Christians we can respond to Halloween without superstition. Unbelievers are superstitious. But Christians have been enlightened by God’s Word (Ps. 119:105). Demons are no more vigorous and menacing on Halloween than any other day of the year (1 Pe. 5:8). But we have hope, first because we know that God is with us (1 Jn. 4:4) and second we rest in the fact that God is absolutely in control over all evil and even Satan and demons (1 Ch. 21:15, 27; Jg. 9:23; 1 Sam. 16:14; 1 Kg. 22:23; Mt. 8:28-34; Mt. 13:41; Mt 24:31; Mk 1:27; Ac. 12:11; Rev. 22:6; Ge. 50:20; Ac. 2:23; Ac. 4:27-28).
Second, as Christians we can respond to Halloween with caution and wisdom. Sinful behavior can make Halloween a dangerous time of year. We need to be wise in seeking to protect our families and steward our possessions. Make your children aware of the trouble that usually happens at secular Halloween parties (Prov. 1). See that your children are well-supervised, and restrict candy only to that which has been received from people you know and trust.
Third, we can respond to Halloween with gospel compassion. The thought of being terrorized by witches and ghosts can never compare to the wrath of God people will eternally suffer if they don’t repent of their sins and put their trust in the Savior. You can use Halloween as an opportunity to reach the lost without embracing what Halloween celebrates (i.e. death, horror, the ghoulish, occult, etc.).
I think in these ways Halloween can be adiaphoron (i.e. a matter that is neither right nor wrong but left to conscience). Some Christians will adapt a “No Participation” policy (as me and my family have) and some won’t, and that’s ok.
However, it must be said that without a shadow of doubt there is a very dark and demonic ideology about Halloween. There is an aspect to this holiday that tends to glorify things that God hates. Things like witchcraft and indecency are the things that Christians should be avoiding. We need to bear this in mind if we are going to let our families participate in trick-or-treating or attending Halloween activities.
Ultimately, a Christian’s participation in Halloween is a matter of conscience before God. There is nothing inherently evil about candy or costumes. Trick-or-treating is not forbidden to Christians. Whatever you decide to do this Halloween, strive for holiness. Don’t bash your brother if what they are doing isn’t evil. Yet also don’t endorse the occult, witchcraft or murder just because our culture is. Separate yourselves from that which is evil and cling to that which is good. Put some thought into this. See that your costumes are innocent and that your theology and behavior doesn’t dishonor Christ.
In Him,
Miles
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