Scripture Reading: Romans 14
Should Christians celebrate Halloween? Some Christians celebrate Halloween simply by dressing up in a costume and having fun, seeing it as innocent and harmless. Other Christians are equally convinced that Halloween is a satanic holiday established to worship evil spirits and promote darkness and wickedness. Who is right? Is it possible for Christians to celebrate Halloween without compromising their faith?
Origins Of Halloween:
Halloween, although commercialized, has almost completely pagan origins. Traditionally, it was known as All Hallows’ Eve, when the dead were remembered. Over time, it became cultural. For Americans, it has become extremely commercialized. As innocent as it may seem, it is not something to be taken lightly. Christians tend to have various ways to celebrate or not to celebrate Halloween. Some, have an “alternative” Harvest Party, for others, it is staying away from the ghosts, witches, goblins, and wearing innocent costumes. Some choose not to do anything and hide at home. With our freedom as Christians, we are at liberty to decide how we celebrate and what to do.
What Does Scripture Say?
Scripture does not speak at all about Halloween, but it does give us some principles on which we can make a decision.
In Old Testament Israel, witchcraft was a crime punishable by death (Exodus 22:18; Leviticus 19:31; 20:6, 27).
The New Testament teaching about the occult is clear. (Acts 8:9-24) the story of Simon, shows that occultism and Christianity don't mix.
The account of Elymas a sorcerer in Acts 13:6-11 reveals that sorcery is violently opposed to Christianity. Paul called Elymas a child of the devil, an enemy of righteousness and a perverter of the ways of God.
In Acts 16 a fortune-telling girl lost her demon powers when the evil spirit was cast out by Paul. What's interesting here is that Paul refused to allow even good statements to come from a demon-influenced person.
In Acts 19 we see new converts who have abruptly broken with their former occultism by confessing, showing their evil deeds, bringing their magic paraphernalia, and burning it before everyone. (Vs.19) A number who had practiced sorcery brought their scrolls together and burned them publicly. When they calculated the value of the scrolls, the total came to fifty thousand drachmas.
Should a Christian celebrate Halloween?
Is there anything evil about a Christian dressing up as a princess or cowboy and going around the block asking for candy? No...
Are there things about Halloween that are anti-Christian and should be avoided? Absolutely! If parents are going to allow their children to participate in Halloween, they should make sure to keep them from getting involved in the darker aspects of the day.
If Christians are going to take part in Halloween, their attitude, dress, and most importantly, their behavior should still reflect a redeemed life.
(Philippians 1:27) Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel.
There are many churches that hold "harvest festivals" and incorporate costumes, but in a godly environment. Many hand out tracts and share the Gospel along with the Halloween candy. The decision is ultimately yours to make. But as with all things, we are to incorporate the principles of Romans 14. We can’t allow our own convictions about a holiday to cause division in the body of Christ, nor can we use our freedom to cause others to stumble in their faith. We are to do all things as to the Lord. Whatever you choose to do be safe and blessed...
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