Halloween is a controversial conversation amongst Christians. Some celebrate it and some do not. I've been seeing so many posts on social media about why we shouldn't be celebrating Halloween and a lot of Christians judging their Christian brothers and sisters for partaking. Which isn’t right.
“And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not perceive the plank in your own eye?” - Luke 6:41 NKJV
I'm in the camp that believes we can redeem Halloween. That we should be shining bright when darkness is it’s darkest. Plus October 31st is the day the Lord has made. I’m not giving any day over to the devil. As Christians we shouldn't be hiding away in our basements like we are afraid, because the one that is IN US, is stronger than he who is in the world (1 John 4:4).
"You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." - Matthew 5:14-16
Should Christians Celebrate Halloween?
Yay or nay? The topic sparks passionate debates within the Christian community. On one hand, Halloween is often associated with darkness, fear, and even occult imagery. On the other hand, it presents a unique opportunity to engage with neighbors, show kindness, and share the light of Christ. But how should Christians approach this?
As followers of Christ, we’re called to be the “light of the world” (Matthew 5:14-16), even on days that may seem spiritually “dark.” And it seems more now than ever that there are evil and dark things happening almost every single day.
In this blog post, I want to share why Christians should take back what Satan has stolen. We should redeem Halloween. I will share verses and more as we explore reasons Christians should choose to engage with Halloween, what the Bible says about judgment among believers, and why the enemy would prefer that we hide in our houses rather than share the gospel on this day.
1.Engaging as Light in the Darkness
When Jesus calls us “the light of the world,” He doesn’t make exceptions for certain days. Halloween, with its themes of darkness and fear, can be a powerful opportunity for Christians to shine a light. Imagine the difference we could make if, instead of hiding away, we actively participated by creating a warm, loving, and hopeful environment on Halloween. Spreading His light with others.
By simply being present, greeting neighbors, and perhaps handing out treats along with a message of hope, we can reflect God’s love and kindness in a memorable way. This presence alone can plant seeds for future gospel conversations. When I was young, my parents would take us and our friends trick or treating and all of our friends (some of who had parents that weren’t very present so since they went with us they had someone watching over them on Halloween. So if you have kids think about taking some of their friends with. Especially if they’d be running around town by themselves.)
2. Making the Most of Every Opportunity
Halloween provides a rare chance to meet people in our neighborhoods who might not otherwise be open to connecting. When else in the year, do you have your neighbors and community coming to your door? It's perfect timing to share the Light of Christ. Rather than withdrawing, we’re encouraged to reach out and make the most of the chance to meet and show Christ to others.
"Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." - Colossians 4:5-6
For some, this might mean creatively adding Scripture to treats or offering a friendly prayer for those who are open. However, we choose to participate, it’s an occasion to “make the most of every opportunity” to show others the grace of God.
3. Fear Not—Christ Has Overcome the Darkness
For many, Halloween may feel intimidating or even dark. Yet, as Christians, we know that Christ has already overcome the darkness. We don’t need to live in fear, even on a night that emphasizes fear for many people.
"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." - 2 Timothy 1:7
"The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." - John 1:5
Christ’s victory over fear and death means that no amount of darkness on Halloween can overshadow the power of God’s love, peace, and light. NO AMOUNT OF DARKNESS.
4. Overcome Evil with Good
We have the opportunity to transform Halloween into a night where good prevails. Redeem it. We need to show kindness, love, and generosity to others. It's a practical way to overcome darkness with light.
"Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." - Romans 12:21
By taking part with a loving heart, we make a stand against any association Halloween might have with evil, using it as an opportunity to share God’s goodness.
5. We Should Rebuke Judgment of Believer's Convictions.
I'm sure you've seen all the condemning posts on social media where Christians are calling out other Christians for partaking in Halloween (For those who are using it as a way to spread the light VS those who are partaking in the evil, tarot, satanic rituals, and more. The latter of the two is something that should be rebuked for sure. But the first, isn't. If Jesus isn't convicting you for partaking because you just take your kids throughout the neighborhood and hand out candy to the town kids who come to your house along with a tract sharing the love of Jesus. That’s totally innocent!
It’s essential for Christians to remember that not everyone will feel the same way about Halloween. Some are convicted to abstain completely, while others feel led to engage and be a light. Scripture warns us not to judge each other in matters of personal conviction. Because conviction comes straight from God. And we answer to God. We are each called to serve God according to our own understanding and to respect our brothers and sisters.
"One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind. Whoever regards one day as special does so to the Lord. Whoever eats meat does so to the Lord, for they give thanks to God; and whoever abstains does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God." - Romans 14:5-6
Instead of judging, let’s celebrate each other’s convictions. Some may feel led to abstain, while others might feel called to engage lovingly. As long as both are glorifying God in their actions, we are honoring Him.
Why Satan Wants Christians to Hide on Halloween
When Christians hide away on Halloween, Satan achieves several things:
- Lost Opportunity to Shine Light: By hiding, we lose the chance to be a light in a dark world (Matthew 5:14-16).
- Isolation from the Community: By withdrawing, we miss a unique chance to meet and connect with our neighbors (Colossians 4:5-6).
- Missed Evangelism Opportunity: Halloween offers a chance to spread the gospel to those who may otherwise never hear it (Matthew 28:19-20).
- Surrender of a Day that Belongs to God: Halloween, like every other day, is a day made by the Lord (Psalm 118:24). By hiding away, we miss the chance to redeem it for God’s purposes.
- Avoidance of the Spiritual Battle: Halloween stirs interest in the supernatural; it’s a chance to point others to the truth of Christ, who overcame the darkness (John 1:5, Ephesians 6:12).
Be Led by the Spirit and Walk in Love
Whether you feel convicted to abstain or to engage with Halloween, seek God’s wisdom. Pray about it and let the Spirit guide you. For some, Halloween can be a chance to shine brightly and share God’s love in a way that’s friendly, open, and non-judgmental.
"But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect." - 1 Peter 3:15
This is why my husband and I take part in Halloween, we wish to fill it with life, light, and love!
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