Should Christians Participate in Halloween?

Beware the dreaded All Hallows' Eve, or as we've come to know it, Halloween, a subject of much controversy among Christians.

Some participate with costumes and trick -or -treating like anyone else. Others try to redeem the holiday by calling it a fall festival or doing a trunk -or -treat.

Some do Reformation Day parties. Since October 31st is the anniversary of the Protestant Reformation. Personally, I like that one.

Then there are those who choose to abstain entirely, shutting off the lights and locking everything down until the zombie apocalypse is over.

Is there anything evil about dressing like Batman or Batgirl and going door -to -door asking for candy? No, there's really not.

However, the origins of Halloween are unmistakably pagan, with things a Christian should not participate in, like death and the occult.

But Halloween is impossible to get away from. Once October rolls around, it's everywhere. Parents should always teach their children what is acceptable and what's not.

In our hearts, we need to revere Christ as holy and honor God in all that we do. It's hard to deny door -to -door visitors make for a great opportunity to hand out tracts and share the gospel.

As for whether or not to go trick -or -treating, the Christian is free to make that decision on their own. But don't quarrel over opinions.

One person thinks of a day one way while another thinks all days alike. Don't pass judgment on the one who abstains or on the one who eats

Halloween candy. Know the origins of Halloween and study Romans 14 to help you come to an informed and biblical decision.

In the process, avoid guilting others into why they should or should not participate. Everyone is to be fully convinced in their own mind when we understand the text.