HALLOWEEN IS EVIL

As you read those words, an emotion rises within you. Some feel a sense of righteous frustration as to why 'Christians' would celebrate a pagan holiday. But for others, another anger built up within you as you read the title of this blog. Halloween may be a holiday that you love. What is so evil about dressing up, getting candy, harmless fun, right? What if both are true and have legitimacy?

You cannot deny history. And history concerning Halloween has some 'dark' or evil rituals and connections. But do those historical actions condemn the use or act of the holiday today? For some, you may look at Halloween as innocent and a fun activity. Others have attempted to 'redeem' it with an alternative like a 'harvest party' or 'harvest festival,' but the actions appear to be the same? And for others still, you regard this entire day as evil, and something not to partake in.

So the question becomes, what does the Bible say about it? To be clear, the Bible does not speak directly to Halloween. But the Bible is full of principles that can aid in our decision-making. The Old Testament speaks of witchcraft and condemns and even makes it illegal (Exodus 22:18; Leviticus 19:31; 20:6, 27). And the New Testament talks about occultism, sorcery, and fortune-telling are directly opposed to Christianity (Acts 8:9-24, Acts 13:6-11, Acts 16).

So should Christians celebrate Halloween? Is there anything inherently evil about kids dressing up as princesses and cowboys? No, clearly not. But are there things within the Halloween tradition that are anti-christian and should be avoided? Yes. What is essential is how Christians approach and participate in Halloween, just like everything else.

Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ. Then, whether I come and see you again or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News. - Philippians 1:27

WE CANNOT ALLOW OUR OPINIONS TO CAUSE DIVISION

So, wherever you fall concerning Halloween, if it does not go against the Word of God, we must allow freedom. Romans 14 is a clear example of this for each to test and come to common ground on.

Accept other believers who are weak in faith, and don’t argue with them about what they think is right or wrong. 2 For instance, one person believes it’s all right to eat anything. But another believer with a sensitive conscience will eat only vegetables. 3 Those who feel free to eat anything must not look down on those who don’t. And those who don’t eat certain foods must not condemn those who do, for God has accepted them. - Romans 14:1-3

We can’t allow our convictions about a holiday to cause division in the body of Christ, nor can we use our freedom to force others to stumble in their faith. We are to do all things as to the Lord.