Christians have differing views on a lot of issues. There seems to be a clear, correct biblical answer for some issues, while others seem to have more latitude and come down to a matter of conscience (1 Cor. 10:23-33). Whether or not to participate in Halloween seems to fall in the latter category.
Halloween has had a variety of influences throughout its history. While Halloween does have some religious origins, there is a lot of pagan influence, which reveals there is a darker side to Halloween, one that should not be taken lightly or overlooked.
As a Christian trying to be led by Scripture and the Holy Spirit, there are several approaches to Halloween. A few filters are helpful to decide what we receive, reject, or redeem about this time of the year. You can receive it by participating in it like the rest of society. You might claim that because Christ is victorious and has authority over sin, death, and Satan (Heb. 2:14, 1 Cor. 15:54-57), Halloween (and the things associated with it) should not be feared.
You can reject it by not participating in anything to do with Halloween. You might claim that Scripture speaks against sorcery and the occult (Acts 8:9-24 for example), and there is too much darkness surrounding Halloween and its history, and for these reasons, you want nothing to do with it.
Or you can redeem it by taking aspects of Halloween (candy, dressing up, and hanging out with neighbors) and leveraging those elements for kingdom purposes. Understanding the need to be cautious with certain aspects of Halloween, yet also realizing the opportunities to intentionally show generosity and hospitality on a day when your whole neighborhood will be out and about, might lead you to see the potential gospel impact that cautiously participating in this day can have.
Regardless, your approach to Halloween should be rooted in God’s Word, be Spirit-led, and be grounded in prayer. Your decision to receive, reject, or redeem Halloween shouldn’t be taken lightly. Whatever you decide, your attitude and behavior should reflect a life that has been changed by the power of the gospel (Phil. 1:27).
I know God-honoring people who choose to reject Halloween. They have a core conviction that participating in it is wrong. I know people who receive it and also others who redeem it. Scripture, the Spirit, and prayer influence their decisions to do so. I would challenge you to ask yourself, “What is my view on Halloween and why?” In the end, regardless of your level of participation, will others see your attitude and behavior on October 31 and see a life that has been changed by the gospel?
Recently, a few of our pastors discussed these views in more depth. CLICK HERE TO LISTEN.