by Pastor Adam Sinnett

Given the context of the previous three posts, I submit to you the following seven ways, which are by no means exhaustive, by which to redeem the holiday for the glory of God:

First, Halloween provides an opportunity to be missional. (Mt 28:19-20; Acts 1:8; John 20:21; Mt 11:19) Our God is a sending God who sent his Son to live, die and rise again for the forgiveness of sin and redeemed life with God. As God’s people, we too are now sent. That means we should be where the community is, doing what the community is doing. This was Jesus’ model and he was called a glutton and drunkard because of it.

Second, Halloween reminds us that Jesus created candy and taste buds so that we could understand what it means to “Taste and see that the Lord is good”. (Ps 34:8; Ps 119:103; 1 Peter 2:3) Candy and taste buds exist so that verses like these make sense. Without taste buds we’d be completely unaware of what it means to taste. Without candy, we’d be unaware of how strong this metaphoric language is. What is more delicious than your favorite candy? The most delicious of candy should remind us, in a very tangible way, of how truly good Jesus is.

Third, Halloween reminds us that Jesus created creativity and humor. (Gen 1:1,27; Col 1:15) We are created in the imago dei – image of God. Just as God is a creative God that enjoys humor, so we are creative and enjoy humor. Just as God has created all things, we are a creative people and Halloween provides an opportunity to express that shared quality with God.

Fourth, Halloween provides an opportunity to provide hospitality. (Rom 12:13; Heb 13:2) Scripture encourages us to remember that all that we have and possess is ultimately from God. Thus, we should share that which God has given us with others, which includes opening our homes and welcoming strangers. Halloween provides an opportunity to love your neighbors and welcome them to your home.

Fifth, Halloween provides an opportunity to practice self-control. (Pr 25:28; Gal 5:22-23; 2 Peter 1:5-7) Scripture frequently lists self-control among the essential character qualities that Christians should possess and develop. To prove this is lacking in our culture, I submit to you the following statistics: the average American consumes 20 teaspoons of sugar per day (which is roughly 2-3 pounds of sugar per week, or 100 to 150 pounds per year). The average teenage male eats 34 teaspoons per day. America accounts for only 5% of world’s population but consumes 33% of world’s sugar. Halloween is a prime opportunity to exercise self-control in eating, in particular.

Sixth, Halloween reminds us that Satan and his servants also disguise themselves. (2 Cor 11:14-15; 1 Peter 5:8) Halloween may also serve as a reminder that our enemy rarely comes and knocks on our door dressed in a devil or witch costume. He is much more subtle than that. Thus, Halloween reminds us that our enemy also disguises himself and that we should be on the lookout for subtle ways in which he may be attempting to tempt or lure us to sin, which is his primary strategy.

Seventh, most importantly, Halloween reminds us that Jesus conquered Satan and demons. (John 12:31; Col 2:9-10; Col 2:15) God created two worlds, one visible and one invisible. Satan and demons are fallen angels that chose to follow their own pride instead of following God. They now stand accusing and condemning us, but they have been defeated. D-day has occurred, V-Day is ensured (i.e. the decisive battle has been won on the cross, victory is ensured upon Jesus return). The enemy knows this and attempts to take down as many with him as he can. However he has no power over those who are in Christ. Halloween is a great day on which to remember these central gospel truths.

So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
1 Cor 10:31

Part three Halloween: To Trick or Not to Treat?
Part two Halloween: The History
Part one Halloween: The Issue