The Bible and Halloween

     While Halloween has seemingly evolved into a commercialized holiday that boosts sales for retailers and gives everyone a good excuse to do something fun, Christians should continue to go to scripture to understand what may or may not be acceptable to the Lord.

     Paul focused in areas where we have liberty; “One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it….” (Rom 14:5-6).  He told those in Colosse, “Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days” (Col 2:16). Presumably Christians do not celebrate Halloween to honor pagan deities, departed spirits, etc., although many aren’t comfortable participating because of this concern.  Clearly idolatry in any form, including covetousness, is not acceptable to God. (Col 3:5, Gal 5:20) Personally, I don’t think God is pleased by His people dressing up or emulating witches, sorcerers, wizards, etc. given that His judgment in the OT was they should be put to death (Ex 22:18, Deu 18:10-12).

     But Paul also warned those in Colosse, “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ” (Col 2:8).  Many churches use Halloween to host “Trunk or Treat” activities to provide a safe and fun Christian atmosphere for which to celebrate Halloween as a work of the church. It’s a personal view that more and more churches are using worldly based traditions as the basis for fellowship, using popular TV shows to title youth retreats, and other commercialized slogans to headline various activities while trying to link them to a biblical theme.  While judgment is involved, let’s be reminded that the works of the church and the various positions are for three purposes, “For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ” (Eph 4:12). 

     But however we define the activities that fit the above criteria, they are for an ultimate objective, “Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ” (Eph 4:11-12).  Yes, evangelism is part of this but maturing and growing spiritually through edification, study, and fellowship is also critical.  Perhaps Fall Festivals, Trunk or Treats, ornament exchanges, etc. contribute broadly to edification and fellowship, but if Christians need a worldly wrapper to get engaged and involved with each other, but aren’t enthused about bible study, worship, and the message of repentance, then we have been forewarned.

     Jesus did not chide Martha for serving, but reminded her that Mary chose the ‘good’ part. (Lk 10:38-42) Let us please Him in all things, desire the good part, and have wisdom to encourage others to do the same.  –Matthew Johnson