Today's verses are from Romans 14:5–6, 1 Corinthians 10:31, and Deuteronomy 18:10–12.
“One person esteems one day above another; another esteems every day alike. Let each be fully convinced in his own mind. He who observes the day, observes it to the Lord...” — Romans 14:5–6 (NKJV)
“Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” — 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NKJV)
Deuteronomy 18:10–12 also gives us a clear warning against witchcraft, divination, sorcery, and other occult practices, which God calls an abomination.
As Halloween approaches, many Christian families face a familiar question: Should we participate, or should we abstain? Some see an opportunity for wholesome family fun and fellowship with neighbors, while others are deeply concerned about the holiday's association with darkness and evil.
So how should followers of Jesus Christ respond?
First, we must distinguish between what Scripture clearly forbids and what Scripture leaves to personal conviction.
In Deuteronomy 18, God explicitly forbids occult practices. These are not matters of personal preference or Christian liberty. As children of light, we must never celebrate or participate in what God condemns (Ephesians 5:8–11).
However, Scripture does not specifically prohibit children from wearing wholesome costumes, collecting candy, or enjoying fellowship with neighbors. In Romans 14, Paul teaches that believers may hold different convictions regarding the observance of certain days. His emphasis is not on everyone making the same decision, but on each believer seeking to honor the Lord with a clear conscience.
Christian liberty, however, is not permission to do whatever we please. Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 10:31 that everything we do should be for God's glory. Our intentions matter, but they must always be governed by the truth of God's Word.
This means one Christian family may prayerfully choose to abstain from Halloween, while another may participate in wholesome activities and use the occasion to show Christ's love to their neighbors. Neither should automatically judge the other where Scripture has not established a universal prohibition.
So, what does this mean for us this weekend?
Rather than asking only, "Is Halloween right or wrong?" perhaps we should ask a more important question: "How can my family best honor Jesus Christ in whatever we choose to do?"
Here's a personal question to consider for today:
Am I allowing God's Word to shape my convictions, or am I simply following the traditions, fears, and expectations of others?
May we be Christians who stand firmly where Scripture speaks clearly, exercise grace where Scripture allows liberty, and seek to glorify our Lord Jesus Christ in everything we do.
Truth without compromise. Grace without legalism. Liberty with responsibility. All for the glory of Christ.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the freedom we have in Christ and the truth of Your Word that guides our decisions. Give us wisdom to discern what is good, courage to reject what is evil, and grace toward those who hold different convictions. Help us lead our families in truth and love, and may everything we say and do bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
For more Christian Origins of Halloween see the link below:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B53F84IdUV1OMlF0ZXhXZGJrUkk/view?resourcekey=0-AWGuQctRWzc0zKfqskmL6w
Song of Reflection
Do Everything
By Steven Curtis Chapman
https://youtu.be/d3YLJCOKOzM?is=QrpyRjrNo40zYCMv
