Should Christains particate in Halloween activies?
We both grew up in Christian house holds but my husband's family did not participate in Halloween at all. My family participated in Halloween actives such as trick o treating and parties. Some Christian friends do not let their children participate at all and criticize those that do. Any thoughts on the matter?
Beth
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by James William Stickney on -
To celebrate or not to celebrate isn't the question. The question is: What's in your heart? We participate in halloween activities and when we do we take Jesus with us. Some of the people most in need of hearing about Christ are those that participate in halloween. What if they ran into Christians that didn't judge based on a stereotype. Halloweener's are some of the nicest people I have ever met. We discussed Christ with a family one year while trick or treating; that year the family wore demonic and satanic costumes. The next year their kids were dressed as disney character's. Who new?
As a Christian the worst thing that ever happened to me while participating was; I gained way too much weight from the candy!
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Permalink Reply by Tim and Beth on -
My childhood church has a Halloween party every year to witness to the community. Some of the people would never have stepped foot inside a church other wise. Should children be allowed to go to haunted houses, movies and secular parties?
Thank you for replying Beth
James William Stickney said:To celebrate or not to celebrate isn't the question. The question is: What's in your heart? We participate in halloween activities and when we do we take Jesus with us. Some of the people most in need of hearing about Christ are those that participate in halloween. What if they ran into Christians that didn't judge based on a stereotype. Halloweener's are some of the nicest people I have ever met. We discussed Christ with a family one year while trick or treating; that year the family wore demonic and satanic costumes. The next year their kids were dressed as disney character's. Who new?
As a Christian the worst thing that ever happened to me while participating was; I gained way too much weight from the candy!
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Permalink Reply by James William Stickney on
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I believe for most kids, halloween, is more about thrill seeking than it is satanic or demonic infatuation. If the activities; movies, haunted houses, and secular parties are done in a manner that promotes thrill seeking then I see know harm (age appropriate of course).
If we limit the thrill seeking nature of halloween; then shouldn't we ask amusement parks to close their doors because of the roller coasters? I rode thrill rides with names like; demon drop, and the red dragon. However, they didn't change my faith or how I felt about Jesus.
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Permalink Reply by Marya Rud on -
HIs parents where right . Do open a door to let satin in . Honor God and Jesus not satin.
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Permalink Reply by Marya Rud on
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Ten Reasons Christians Should Not Celebrate Halloween
by J. Kerby Anderson
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Many in our secular society believe Halloween is nothing more than a harmless festival that allows kids to collect candy. But is it? Its origins lie deeply rooted in the occult, and Christians should stay away. Here are ten reasons why.
1. October 31st has long been known as "The Festival of the Dead." The Celtic tribes and their priests the Druids celebrated this day as a marker for the change from life to death.
2. Halloween today is performed usually by adherents of witchcraft who use the night for their rituals. Witches celebrate Halloween as the "Feast of Samhain," the first feast of the witchcraft year. Being a festival of the dead, Halloween is a time when witches attempt to communicate with the dead through various forms of divination.
3. Christians should not be involved with occultic practice or divination. Note God's command against divination in Deuteronomy 18.
4. Occultists believe Halloween is a time of transition between life and death. Some occult practitioners practiced divination and believed you could learn the secrets of life and wisdom by Iying on a grave and listening to the messages from the long-departed.
5. Occultists also taught that spirits and ghosts left the grave during this night and would seek out warmth in their previous homes. Villagers, fearful of the possibility of being visited by the ghosts of past occupants, would dress up in costumes to scare the spirits on their way. They would also leave food and other treats at their door to appease the spirits so they would not destroy their homes or crops but instead move on down the road. That is the real reason why kids dress up in costumes today and go door-to-door seeking treats.
6. Occultists also would try to scare away the spirits by carving a scary face into a pumpkin. This horrible visage would hopefully move the spirit on to another home or village and spare that home from destruction. Sometimes the villagers would light a candle and place it within the pumpkin and use it as a lantern (hence the name, Jack-o-Lantern). This is the origin of carving pumpkins at Halloween.
7. In some witchcraft covens, the closing ritual includes eating an apple or engaging in fertility rites. In the Bible (Genesis 3), eating a piece of fruit brought sin and death into the world. In witchcraft, eating an apple is symbolic of bringing life. The practice of bobbing for apples brings together two pagan traditions: divination and the fertility ritual.
8. Schools are removing any religious significance from Christmas (often called winter break) and Easter (spring break). Isn't it ironic that most public schools still celebrate Halloween even though it has occultic origins?
9. Participating in Halloween gives sanction to a holiday that promotes witches, divination, haunted houses, and other occultic practices.
10. Christians should avoid Halloween and develop creative alternatives. Churches can hold a Fall Fun Festival and/or celebrate Reformation Day (also October 31). They should not endorse or promote Halloween.
Copyright © 2001 Probe Ministries
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Permalink Reply by Marya Rud on
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Should Christians participate in Halloween?
The October 31st holiday that we today know as Halloween has strong roots in paganism and is closely connected with worship of the Enemy of this world, Satan. It is a holiday that generally glorifies the dark things of this world, rather than the light of Jesus Christ, The Truth.
Have you noticed how costumes and masks are getting generally more bloody, gory, and depraved each year? Unfortunately, the gruesome and grotesque and the occult are increasingly glorified in American society, not only on Halloween, but throughout the year in frequent horror movies and television programs.
My family does not celebrate it or participate in it. We do not believe that our children are “missing out,” and neither do they. Other days are used for costumes and parties. Happily, all of our children have accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. We have found that Halloween provides an excellent time to remind our children that, as Christians, we are different, and not of this world (Heb. 11:13-16; 1 Pet. 2:11).
What about church “Harvest Festivals” held on October 31? Although we understand the rational and good intentions behind them, we don’t think they are the best approach. Our family tends to agree with the author of an article called “Are ‘Harvest Parties’ for Christians?” (written by a self-avowed former witch and now active Christian). Harvest parties on October 31 tend to assume that “our children need something to take the place of Halloween, since they won’t be participating in the secular and pagan celebrations. It suggests our kids are missing out on something. And indeed they are, if we allow them to spend Halloween in celebration.” There are better things to do on Halloween than partying.
Also, we need to teach our children that “the fight isn’t against occultists, non-Christians, Christians who feel differently than we about Halloween, or institutions that promote Halloween, but” “against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12, NKJV).
Relevant Scripture
1 Thessalonians 5:21-22—“Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil.”
Philippians 4:8—think about pure, lovely, noble things
James 1:27—“keep oneself from being polluted by the world”
3 John 1:11—“do not imitate what is evil”
Romans 12:9—“abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.”
Deuteronomy 18:9-14—do not learn to imitate detestable ways, including spiritists, sorcerers and witchcraft
Ephesians 5:11-12—“Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness” / “live as children of light”
1 Timothy 4:1—don’t ”follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons”
2 Corinthians 6:14-17—“what fellowship can light have with darkness?”
1 Corinthians 11:1—“follow the example of Christ”
1 Corinthians 10:31—“whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God”
James 4:7-8—submit yourselves to God, resist the devil, purify your hearts
Ezekiel 44:23—“…teach my people… to distinguish between the unclean and the clean.”
Proverbs 22:6—“train a child in the way he should go”
Matthew 18:6—“if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin…”
Hosea 4:6—“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”
John 3:19-20—fallen man loves darkness instead of light
Romans 13:12—“put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.”
Ephesians 6:11-18—“take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”
2 Chronicles 7:14—humble ourselves, pray, seek God’s face, and turn away from wicked ways—and God will heal our land
Are October 31 “Harvest Parties” the best alternative for Christians?
“What are you doing for Halloween?” Ask a Christian parent this question, and be prepared to hear an answer like, “Nothing! We don’t celebrate Halloween.“ Thunder crashes, and you creep away, embarassed for even asking.
“What are you doing ON Halloween?” Ask the same parent this slightly altered question, and their whole manner and response brightens. “Why,” they begin, as birds begin to sing and sunshine breaks through the cumulus clouds. “We’re all going to the Harvest Party at church!” A choir sings. A trumpet sounds. You feel privileged just knowing these saints.
Let’s take a look at the typical Harvest Party.
■It is a celebration.
■It is chaperoned (usually).
■It may have costumes.
■Games are played.
■Contests are held.
■Food abounds.
■Music blares.
■Everyone enjoys themselves.
Certainly, nothing to get concerned about, right? The problem, however, lies in the billing. The Harvest Party is usually referred to as the Christian alternative to traditional Halloween hijinx. Alternative, however, implies substitute. It assumes our children need something to take the place of Halloween, since they won’t be participating in the secular and pagan celebrations. It suggests our kids are missing out on something. And indeed they are, if we allow them to spend Halloween in celebration.
If we are to train our children to be soldiers in the army of Christ, why would we sign a pass for them to go on leave when the battle is escalating on the front lines?
As a child of four, I contacted the first of many spirit guides (read: demons) while playing with a Kindergarten classmates’ ouija board at a chaperoned Halloween party. This spiritual assault ignited an intrigue with the supernatural that culminated in my lifestyle as a practicing witch: divination, necromancy, channeling, astrology, psychic ability, and spell working. It wasn’t until I was twenty that I met the real Jesus Christ, and was released from the trap that Satan had set for this young prisoner of war sixteen years earlier.
There are too many casualities on Halloween and far too few troops fighing the enemy. Instead of partying on Halloween, teach your children how to fight. Keep them aware that the fight isn’t against occultists, non-Christians, Christians who feel differently than we about Halloween, or institutions that promote Halloween, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers or darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Ephesians 6:12).
How do we teach our children to wrestle spiritually?
■Discourage them from participating in traditional Halloween activities (2 Timothy 2:4). Then tell them why.
■Encourage them to pray on a regular, daily basis (Ephesians 6:18). Let them know first hand the power that we have in prayer. All Christians should know how to fight on their knees.
■Remind them to be alert and self-controlled (1 Corinthians 16:13; 1 Thessalonians 5:6). Give them the discipline of knowing it is their responsibility to keep watch. They, themselves, might also become casualties in the war.
■Make certain they are prepared for battle (Ephesians 6:11). Do they know the truth? Stand on the Word of God? Have faith? Know the gospel? Are they righteous? Are they saved?…
Instead of celebrating, what’s a Christian to do on Satan’s feast day? PRAY! Intercession and spiritual warfare should be the first item on our agenda. It is NOT a last resort!
■Join with other families in the church. Have the pastor announce a night of spiritual battle. Organize a group of Christians parents and students from your children’s school or homeschool group. As a family, designate the seven nights before October 31 as Family Prayer Outreach nights.
■Pray for protection. Pray over both those who engage in prayer warfare and over those who will be out trick-or-treating or at Halloween parties. October 31 is a prime recruiting time for witches and Satanists… and a time for interested kids to experiment. Pray that the Lord keeps our kids from falling prey to those who worship the enemy.
■Pray for discernment. Let the Holy Spirit direct you to specific prayer requests. Pray that the children who are “out there” will somehow “know” to keep away from certain activities.
■Pray that the Lord hinder the occult rituals. For four years, I lived in a building which over looked a cemetery where occult ceremonial markings were often found. On certain occult feast days, usually between midnight and 3 a.m., I would look down into the darkness and kneel at my window binding the demons that controlled the ceremonies. I’ll never know this side of heaven what effect my prayers had. Maybe a potential sacrifice escaped. Maybe the occultists weren’t successful in summoning their demon. Maybe a new, young recruit decided that this was not the lifestyle he thought he wanted.
■Pray for the salvation of the occultists. Jesus Christ died for those whom Satan holds captive and deceived, for those who mock Him, who deny His deity or His existence. He doesn’t want them to perish, but to come to Him calling Him Father, Lord. Pray the veil is lifted from their eyes, the Lord allows them to see clearly their spiritual condition and their only hope lies in Jesus Christ. Pray also, about whether the Lord would have you take a more active role in bringing the gospel to Satan’s servants.
■Let your children know that this is effective warfare. They must know their prayers are heard and acted on by our Father. Let them know they can make a difference. Come October 31, they’ll know they have a job to do.
originally published in the Colorado Christian News, October 1995, author’s name not published
Resources for learning more about the issues involved
On-site links on related issues
The Occult—What does the Bible say about it? Answer
What is the Occult? Answer
Is Satan a real person that influences our world today? Is he affecting you? Answer
Satan, devil and demons
MALEVOLENT SPIRITS—Where do these dangerous, hostile, and evil entities come from? Answer
Christian Books
The Facts on Halloween: What Christians Need to Know by John Ankerberg and John Weldon (Eugene, Oregon: Harvest House Publishers, 1996), 48 pp.
Mommy, Why Don’t We Celebrate Halloween by Linda Hacon Winwood (Shippensburg, Pennsylvania: Destiny Image Publishers, 1992), 17 pp.
Christian Motion Picture
Halloween: Trick or Treat , 56 minute documentary exposé.
Off-site links
“The Dark Side of Halloween” (Logos Communications) - Go… (off-site)
“Why do many churches oppose Halloween?” (Robbins) Go… (off-site)
“Halloween - Harmless Fun or Pagan Rituals?” Go… (off-site)
“Halloween: The Fantasy and Folklore of All Hallows” (Library of Congress article) - Go… (off-site)
“Happy Halloween? Is there any good reason for a Christian to celebrate it?” - Go… (off-site)
“Halloween! Harmless? or Hazardous?? The History of Halloween” - Go… (off-site)
“Halloween in Light of the Scriptures” - Go… (off-site)
“Halloween—a harmless ritual?” - Go… (off-site)
Author: Paul S. Taylor, Films for Christ.
This page is located at: http://www.christiananswers.net/q-eden/halloween.html
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Permalink Reply by Tim and Beth on
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Thank you for replying and I agree that Halloween is mostly for getting candy than satanic interests for most children. Our daughter is 21 months and is not quite at the" I want to dress up like a princess for Halloween" stage yet but We have been discussing the issue. I just wanted some feed back from other Christians on the subject.
Thank you,
Beth
James William Stickney said:I believe for most kids, halloween, is more about thrill seeking than it is satanic or demonic infatuation. If the activities; movies, haunted houses, and secular parties are done in a manner that promotes thrill seeking then I see know harm (age appropriate of course).
If we limit the thrill seeking nature of halloween; then shouldn't we ask amusement parks to close their doors because of the roller coasters? I rode thrill rides with names like; demon drop, and the red dragon. However, they didn't change my faith or how I felt about Jesus.
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Permalink Reply by Tim and Beth on
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I agree with you there is a dark side to Halloween, and as Christians we should be aware of that and be cautious. However I do not see how not letting my child tick or treat would encourage her to engage in demonic activities. Lots of churches have activities for children on October 31 and some call it a fall festival or other names to not promote Halloween. They all do basically the same thing as to have a safe fun environment for children. My mother's church has truck or treat and the local mall lets kids trick or treat inside so to provide a safe environment for children. Thank you for your comment and the information provided.
Beth
Marya Rud said:Should Christians participate in Halloween?
The October 31st holiday that we today know as Halloween has strong roots in paganism and is closely connected with worship of the Enemy of this world, Satan. It is a holiday that generally glorifies the dark things of this world, rather than the light of Jesus Christ, The Truth.
Have you noticed how costumes and masks are getting generally more bloody, gory, and depraved each year? Unfortunately, the gruesome and grotesque and the occult are increasingly glorified in American society, not only on Halloween, but throughout the year in frequent horror movies and television programs.
My family does not celebrate it or participate in it. We do not believe that our children are “missing out,” and neither do they. Other days are used for costumes and parties. Happily, all of our children have accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. We have found that Halloween provides an excellent time to remind our children that, as Christians, we are different, and not of this world (Heb. 11:13-16; 1 Pet. 2:11).
What about church “Harvest Festivals” held on October 31? Although we understand the rational and good intentions behind them, we don’t think they are the best approach. Our family tends to agree with the author of an article called “Are ‘Harvest Parties’ for Christians?” (written by a self-avowed former witch and now active Christian). Harvest parties on October 31 tend to assume that “our children need something to take the place of Halloween, since they won’t be participating in the secular and pagan celebrations. It suggests our kids are missing out on something. And indeed they are, if we allow them to spend Halloween in celebration.” There are better things to do on Halloween than partying.
Also, we need to teach our children that “the fight isn’t against occultists, non-Christians, Christians who feel differently than we about Halloween, or institutions that promote Halloween, but” “against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12, NKJV).
Relevant Scripture
1 Thessalonians 5:21-22—“Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil.”
Philippians 4:8—think about pure, lovely, noble things
James 1:27—“keep oneself from being polluted by the world”
3 John 1:11—“do not imitate what is evil”
Romans 12:9—“abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.”
Deuteronomy 18:9-14—do not learn to imitate detestable ways, including spiritists, sorcerers and witchcraft
Ephesians 5:11-12—“Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness” / “live as children of light”
1 Timothy 4:1—don’t ”follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons”
2 Corinthians 6:14-17—“what fellowship can light have with darkness?”
1 Corinthians 11:1—“follow the example of Christ”
1 Corinthians 10:31—“whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God”
James 4:7-8—submit yourselves to God, resist the devil, purify your hearts
Ezekiel 44:23—“…teach my people… to distinguish between the unclean and the clean.”
Proverbs 22:6—“train a child in the way he should go”
Matthew 18:6—“if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin…”
Hosea 4:6—“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”
John 3:19-20—fallen man loves darkness instead of light
Romans 13:12—“put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.”
Ephesians 6:11-18—“take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”
2 Chronicles 7:14—humble ourselves, pray, seek God’s face, and turn away from wicked ways—and God will heal our land
Are October 31 “Harvest Parties” the best alternative for Christians?
“What are you doing for Halloween?” Ask a Christian parent this question, and be prepared to hear an answer like, “Nothing! We don’t celebrate Halloween.“ Thunder crashes, and you creep away, embarassed for even asking.
“What are you doing ON Halloween?” Ask the same parent this slightly altered question, and their whole manner and response brightens. “Why,” they begin, as birds begin to sing and sunshine breaks through the cumulus clouds. “We’re all going to the Harvest Party at church!” A choir sings. A trumpet sounds. You feel privileged just knowing these saints.
Let’s take a look at the typical Harvest Party.
■It is a celebration.
■It is chaperoned (usually).
■It may have costumes.
■Games are played.
■Contests are held.
■Food abounds.
■Music blares.
■Everyone enjoys themselves.
Certainly, nothing to get concerned about, right? The problem, however, lies in the billing. The Harvest Party is usually referred to as the Christian alternative to traditional Halloween hijinx. Alternative, however, implies substitute. It assumes our children need something to take the place of Halloween, since they won’t be participating in the secular and pagan celebrations. It suggests our kids are missing out on something. And indeed they are, if we allow them to spend Halloween in celebration.
If we are to train our children to be soldiers in the army of Christ, why would we sign a pass for them to go on leave when the battle is escalating on the front lines?
As a child of four, I contacted the first of many spirit guides (read: demons) while playing with a Kindergarten classmates’ ouija board at a chaperoned Halloween party. This spiritual assault ignited an intrigue with the supernatural that culminated in my lifestyle as a practicing witch: divination, necromancy, channeling, astrology, psychic ability, and spell working. It wasn’t until I was twenty that I met the real Jesus Christ, and was released from the trap that Satan had set for this young prisoner of war sixteen years earlier.
There are too many casualities on Halloween and far too few troops fighing the enemy. Instead of partying on Halloween, teach your children how to fight. Keep them aware that the fight isn’t against occultists, non-Christians, Christians who feel differently than we about Halloween, or institutions that promote Halloween, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers or darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Ephesians 6:12).
How do we teach our children to wrestle spiritually?
■Discourage them from participating in traditional Halloween activities (2 Timothy 2:4). Then tell them why.
■Encourage them to pray on a regular, daily basis (Ephesians 6:18). Let them know first hand the power that we have in prayer. All Christians should know how to fight on their knees.
■Remind them to be alert and self-controlled (1 Corinthians 16:13; 1 Thessalonians 5:6). Give them the discipline of knowing it is their responsibility to keep watch. They, themselves, might also become casualties in the war.
■Make certain they are prepared for battle (Ephesians 6:11). Do they know the truth? Stand on the Word of God? Have faith? Know the gospel? Are they righteous? Are they saved?…
Instead of celebrating, what’s a Christian to do on Satan’s feast day? PRAY! Intercession and spiritual warfare should be the first item on our agenda. It is NOT a last resort!
■Join with other families in the church. Have the pastor announce a night of spiritual battle. Organize a group of Christians parents and students from your children’s school or homeschool group. As a family, designate the seven nights before October 31 as Family Prayer Outreach nights.
■Pray for protection. Pray over both those who engage in prayer warfare and over those who will be out trick-or-treating or at Halloween parties. October 31 is a prime recruiting time for witches and Satanists… and a time for interested kids to experiment. Pray that the Lord keeps our kids from falling prey to those who worship the enemy.
■Pray for discernment. Let the Holy Spirit direct you to specific prayer requests. Pray that the children who are “out there” will somehow “know” to keep away from certain activities.
■Pray that the Lord hinder the occult rituals. For four years, I lived in a building which over looked a cemetery where occult ceremonial markings were often found. On certain occult feast days, usually between midnight and 3 a.m., I would look down into the darkness and kneel at my window binding the demons that controlled the ceremonies. I’ll never know this side of heaven what effect my prayers had. Maybe a potential sacrifice escaped. Maybe the occultists weren’t successful in summoning their demon. Maybe a new, young recruit decided that this was not the lifestyle he thought he wanted.
■Pray for the salvation of the occultists. Jesus Christ died for those whom Satan holds captive and deceived, for those who mock Him, who deny His deity or His existence. He doesn’t want them to perish, but to come to Him calling Him Father, Lord. Pray the veil is lifted from their eyes, the Lord allows them to see clearly their spiritual condition and their only hope lies in Jesus Christ. Pray also, about whether the Lord would have you take a more active role in bringing the gospel to Satan’s servants.
■Let your children know that this is effective warfare. They must know their prayers are heard and acted on by our Father. Let them know they can make a difference. Come October 31, they’ll know they have a job to do.
originally published in the Colorado Christian News, October 1995, author’s name not published
Resources for learning more about the issues involved
On-site links on related issues
The Occult—What does the Bible say about it? Answer
What is the Occult? Answer
Is Satan a real person that influences our world today? Is he affecting you? Answer
Satan, devil and demons
MALEVOLENT SPIRITS—Where do these dangerous, hostile, and evil entities come from? Answer
Christian Books
The Facts on Halloween: What Christians Need to Know by John Ankerberg and John Weldon (Eugene, Oregon: Harvest House Publishers, 1996), 48 pp.
Mommy, Why Don’t We Celebrate Halloween by Linda Hacon Winwood (Shippensburg, Pennsylvania: Destiny Image Publishers, 1992), 17 pp.
Christian Motion Picture
Halloween: Trick or Treat , 56 minute documentary exposé.
Off-site links
“The Dark Side of Halloween” (Logos Communications) - Go… (off-site)
“Why do many churches oppose Halloween?” (Robbins) Go… (off-site)
“Halloween - Harmless Fun or Pagan Rituals?” Go… (off-site)
“Halloween: The Fantasy and Folklore of All Hallows” (Library of Congress article) - Go… (off-site)
“Happy Halloween? Is there any good reason for a Christian to celebrate it?” - Go… (off-site)
“Halloween! Harmless? or Hazardous?? The History of Halloween” - Go… (off-site)
“Halloween in Light of the Scriptures” - Go… (off-site)
“Halloween—a harmless ritual?” - Go… (off-site)
Author: Paul S. Taylor, Films for Christ.
This page is located at: http://www.christiananswers.net/q-eden/halloween.html
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Permalink Reply by Gaston2 on -
Tim and Beth,
Kudos for questioning, it shows that your heart is open! You know as a parent of 5 boys who dress up as some kind of warrior or other throughout the year, I would suggest that you follow HIS spirit. You and your husband seek HIM and know HIS heart. You can see by the replies here that if you go one way you are wrong and if you go the other way you are wrong.
I grew up in a home where we didn't celebrate this at all, I have taken my boys out for halloween, and I have taken them to the church functions as well. When I have taken them "trick or treating, " I have always said "I will not do this again." My boys are typical boys and love the candy, therefore on the 1st of November I buy tons of 1/2 price candy and the candy dishes stay full! They love this. Also I being creative love to come up with costumes and they boys have won money on their costumes. So the pull is all over the place! Follow HIS heart. The costume that the boys won on was a church shindig and the boys costume took all of 15 minutes to pull together. It was great!
I encourage you to seek HIM and be of one Mind!
G
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Permalink Reply by Jaren Hoffman on -
It's really up to you and your family. Holloween started out as a Christian night referred to as "hallowed evening". Personally, I would agree that Hollween in it's present form can be used as a witnessing tool. My parents, who are not Christians allowed my sister and me to make the call on whether or not to participate. Most of the time we elected not to. Mr. Stickney is right the question is one of the heart.
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Permalink Reply by Raus on
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As far as trick-or-treating goes, I'm okay with it as long as appropriate costumes are worn (cowboy, ball-player, princess, some kind of animal). Halloween is a great time to witness! What other day of the year to people keep coming to your door, and what day of the year do you go to other people's doors? I am goingto endorse another ministry here: Living Waters. They have AMAZING Gospel tracts, including tracts with children in mind. They have a tract that teaches children how to memorize the Ten Commandments; they have tracts for all ages and people, and they are really cool! Picture this: kids and parents coming to your door, and you are armed not just with the best candy on your block (word gets around as to who's giving out what), but Gospel tracts that go in the candy bag! No problem getting that done. If a parent is there, have a "big kids" tract for them, and as you hand it to them, ask, "Did you get one of these?" That makes someone think they are missing out on something, and you know what? They are!!! That leads to the springboard of witnessing. You'll go in to it feeling dragged down by fear and laziness, but you will end the evening feeling like you could fly! If you are out with your kids/grandkids, give out tracts! "Oh, check it out! Did you get one of these?!" And kids can give out the treat of a Gospel message! We should face it--Halloween and what goes with it is probably here to stay. But we can fight, and do it valiantly and victoriously, even if just one person is touched by the gentle carress of the Holy Spirit.
There's bad stuff about Halloween--we all know that. Stay away from it. Don't see how close to the line you can come without crossing it; see how far from the line you can safely stay but still retain engaging effectiveness!
So that's my take on it. And if you are inspired, go to www.livingwaters.com and not just check out their tracts, which are truly amazingly effective (and effectively amazing!), ORDER SOME! They'll get to you in plenty of time! And while you're there, listen to "Hell's Best Kept Secret" free of charge!
If I ruffled some feathers by mentioning another ministry, I offer no apology, and I welcome all replies.
God bless you!
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Permalink Reply by Tim and Beth on
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Thank you for replying to my discussion and we will consider you and your experiences and join hearts and minds to make a good decision.
Gaston2 said:Tim and Beth,
Kudos for questioning, it shows that your heart is open! You know as a parent of 5 boys who dress up as some kind of warrior or other throughout the year, I would suggest that you follow HIS spirit. You and your husband seek HIM and know HIS heart. You can see by the replies here that if you go one way you are wrong and if you go the other way you are wrong.
I grew up in a home where we didn't celebrate this at all, I have taken my boys out for halloween, and I have taken them to the church functions as well. When I have taken them "trick or treating, " I have always said "I will not do this again." My boys are typical boys and love the candy, therefore on the 1st of November I buy tons of 1/2 price candy and the candy dishes stay full! They love this. Also I being creative love to come up with costumes and they boys have won money on their costumes. So the pull is all over the place! Follow HIS heart. The costume that the boys won on was a church shindig and the boys costume took all of 15 minutes to pull together. It was great!
I encourage you to seek HIM and be of one Mind!
G
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