Apostolics and Halloween

[Esphes45]

Could you see Jesus walking around saying "trick or treat"?

Then there is your answer.

[Esphes45]

Originally Posted by FlamingZword

you might not do it, but how do you prevent young people from sneaking out and going out there trick or treating?

I prefer to know that the church people are actually in a harvest festival enjoying themselves rather than being depressed about not being able to go out there and have some fun.

Lots of churches in my area understand what I am saying, or think along the same lines, that is why they prefer to hold harvest festivals.

I would consider that caving in to the world.

[n david]

'Tis the season! About this time I start reading comments from friends and acquaintances who are against Halloween because "it's pagan." The majority of these same people, however, continue to celebrate Christmas and Easter.

I'll be taking my 5 year old daughter around the neighborhood, where families sit in driveways and hang out for hours with each other. After which, we'll go to our church for a kids "Superbook" movie night.

Honestly, this is the only holiday where I see this many neighbors out enjoying the evening together, and taking time to visit one another. It's quite enjoyable, really.

[Aquila]

Here's a little article I wrote a few years ago. Please share your thoughts.

Halloween: Curse the darkness or light your world?

I've got mixed feelings about Halloween. I definitely don't really relish the idea of allowing my child to dress up like something evil and pretend to scare treats out of people. The demonic origins of many things associated with Halloween also cause me to say, "Nope. Not my home."

However, I am thankful for it. It provides an excellent opportunity to teach about several things we often avoid. We can address death, the nature and origin of evil, and Christian history.

There just may be something to redeem here if we look into it. So if you're one of the few who do participate in Halloween on some level here are some considerations. First, here's some history on Halloween...

Originally the Celts celebrated their new year on November 1st. The night before, October 31st, was believed to be an evening when ghosts and spirits returned from the netherworld to bring bad omens for the coming year. So the Celts wore masks and lit bonfires to chase these spirits away. This was the festival of Samhain, Lord of the Dead. When the Romans conquered the Celts they brought with them fall traditions we might find familiar such as bobbing for apples etc. In 835, Pope Gregory IV moved the celebration for all the martyrs (later All Saints) from May 13 to November 1. The night before became known as "All Hallow’s Even" or “holy evening.” Eventually the name was shortened to "Halloween". All Saints was a day set aside by then church authorities to remember Christian martyrs.

What does all this mean for us?

Here are some ideas. If your kids are old enough, it's a good time to teach your children about death and the origins of evil according to the Bible. Give a Bible study on the origin of Satan and warn of what awaits those who refuse to obey the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

It's also an excellent time to remember and teach about those who perished for their faith in Christ. Men like William Tyndale and John Huss immediately come to mind. This would be a wonderful time to teach your kids about the price men paid just to make sure we had the Bible in English. Yes, we can actually turn the tables on Satan and use the day to glorify God's Word. A good idea could be sitting down with your kids and reading a few stories about these men who gave all so we could read the Holy Bible. Maybe review the lives of these martyrs with the youth group as everyone sits around a bonfire. If your church or organization is able, a hayride through history may be an idea. The hayride can carry the riders through various scenes from Christian history. Start with a stop where the ghost of John Wycliffe talks about his life's work, the English Bible. Briefly have him explain the opposition he faced and how his bones were dug up and burned. Visit with William Tyndale as he teaches about his life's work, the persecution he suffered, and his martyr's death. Next stop...John Huss. You are only limited by your imagination. Some may disagree with this idea...but you can make it interesting. Make it a theatrical hayride with the "ghosts" of the martyrs telling their stories at each brief stop, all in the style of Charles Dickens. You can present vivid reenactments or just present the creative story telling of each martyr's surrender to the flames...illustrating their love of God and His Word. This could ignite a fire in the hearts of those attending, not to mention build an appreciation for the Bible and Christian history.

If you're creative, add to the mix fall festivities like bobbing for apples, apple cider, carving pumpkins (actually an interesting Irish tradition), pumpkin pie, or a costume party. Light a bonfire and roast hotdogs. Have LOTS OF CANDY. Let me repeat...GIVE LOTS OF CANDY! Make the unsaved kids in the neighborhood wish they came to your house or your church on Halloween instead of marching all over the neighborhood dressed like spooks and begging for candy in the cold. Do this and you have a celebration grounding your family in the Christian faith, and an excellent opportunity to witness to others.

Our previous church normally had a "Fall Family Night" with a costume theme, festivities, and lots of candy. I think last year we had a Country or Hill Billy theme. There are other possibilities. For example there may be an International theme where people dress in ethnic dress and/or costumes. Or perhaps a History theme where people dress as their favorite men or women in history. One could envision a Wild West theme, a Medieval Europe theme, Super Hero theme, Christian History theme, Bible Characters theme, and the list could go on and on. Nothing demonic should be allowed. Kids enjoy dressing up. Kids love to pretend they are somebody else and it's actually a normal part of their development. Let the kids have fun and enjoy themselves. At the same time you can spend some enjoyable time with them.

The point is that we can move from being on the defensive and get ourselves on the OFFENSIVE. Yes, we can TAKE DOMINION over Halloween! Don't tolerate it. Don't compromise with it. Don't ignore it. Don't fear it. Like good Christian soldiers...TAKE IT. Yes, take back what the Devil has stolen and use it to give God glory! News flash...October 31st doesn't belong to Satan. It belongs to the LORD! EVERY day belongs to the Lord.

The Devil plans on using this day to glorify evil. I say...turn the tables on him. Use it to light your world. You might have a little fun, make some friends from your neighborhood, and...you might win a soul for Jesus.

Take Dominion. You can have an enjoyable "Holy Evening"...you can scare the Hell out of Halloween.

God bless.

P.S.
Family or Church centered activities are desperately needed in many communities. Many parents are concerned about their children's safety or their kids getting into trouble on Halloween. By being pro-active the Church can offer a safe and wholesome alternative to Halloween as part of our ministry in many neighborhoods and communities.

If you want a revolution...you have to think like a revolutionary. Simply ask yourself this one question,

"What would I do for God if I were NOT afraid?"

Then DO IT.

Sincerely,
CH

[Esphes45]

Originally Posted by Aquila

Here's a little article I wrote a few years ago. Please share your thoughts.

Halloween: Curse the darkness or light your world?

I've got mixed feelings about Halloween. I definitely don't really relish the idea of allowing my child to dress up like something evil and pretend to scare treats out of people. The demonic origins of many things associated with Halloween also cause me to say, "Nope. Not my home."

However, I am thankful for it. It provides an excellent opportunity to teach about several things we often avoid. We can address death, the nature and origin of evil, and Christian history.

There just may be something to redeem here if we look into it. So if you're one of the few who do participate in Halloween on some level here are some considerations. First, here's some history on Halloween...

Originally the Celts celebrated their new year on November 1st. The night before, October 31st, was believed to be an evening when ghosts and spirits returned from the netherworld to bring bad omens for the coming year. So the Celts wore masks and lit bonfires to chase these spirits away. This was the festival of Samhain, Lord of the Dead. When the Romans conquered the Celts they brought with them fall traditions we might find familiar such as bobbing for apples etc. In 835, Pope Gregory IV moved the celebration for all the martyrs (later All Saints) from May 13 to November 1. The night before became known as "All Hallow’s Even" or “holy evening.” Eventually the name was shortened to "Halloween". All Saints was a day set aside by then church authorities to remember Christian martyrs.

What does all this mean for us?

Here are some ideas. If your kids are old enough, it's a good time to teach your children about death and the origins of evil according to the Bible. Give a Bible study on the origin of Satan and warn of what awaits those who refuse to obey the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

It's also an excellent time to remember and teach about those who perished for their faith in Christ. Men like William Tyndale and John Huss immediately come to mind. This would be a wonderful time to teach your kids about the price men paid just to make sure we had the Bible in English. Yes, we can actually turn the tables on Satan and use the day to glorify God's Word. A good idea could be sitting down with your kids and reading a few stories about these men who gave all so we could read the Holy Bible. Maybe review the lives of these martyrs with the youth group as everyone sits around a bonfire. If your church or organization is able, a hayride through history may be an idea. The hayride can carry the riders through various scenes from Christian history. Start with a stop where the ghost of John Wycliffe talks about his life's work, the English Bible. Briefly have him explain the opposition he faced and how his bones were dug up and burned. Visit with William Tyndale as he teaches about his life's work, the persecution he suffered, and his martyr's death. Next stop...John Huss. You are only limited by your imagination. Some may disagree with this idea...but you can make it interesting. Make it a theatrical hayride with the "ghosts" of the martyrs telling their stories at each brief stop, all in the style of Charles Dickens. You can present vivid reenactments or just present the creative story telling of each martyr's surrender to the flames...illustrating their love of God and His Word. This could ignite a fire in the hearts of those attending, not to mention build an appreciation for the Bible and Christian history.

If you're creative, add to the mix fall festivities like bobbing for apples, apple cider, carving pumpkins (actually an interesting Irish tradition), pumpkin pie, or a costume party. Light a bonfire and roast hotdogs. Have LOTS OF CANDY. Let me repeat...GIVE LOTS OF CANDY! Make the unsaved kids in the neighborhood wish they came to your house or your church on Halloween instead of marching all over the neighborhood dressed like spooks and begging for candy in the cold. Do this and you have a celebration grounding your family in the Christian faith, and an excellent opportunity to witness to others.

Our previous church normally had a "Fall Family Night" with a costume theme, festivities, and lots of candy. I think last year we had a Country or Hill Billy theme. There are other possibilities. For example there may be an International theme where people dress in ethnic dress and/or costumes. Or perhaps a History theme where people dress as their favorite men or women in history. One could envision a Wild West theme, a Medieval Europe theme, Super Hero theme, Christian History theme, Bible Characters theme, and the list could go on and on. Nothing demonic should be allowed. Kids enjoy dressing up. Kids love to pretend they are somebody else and it's actually a normal part of their development. Let the kids have fun and enjoy themselves. At the same time you can spend some enjoyable time with them.

The point is that we can move from being on the defensive and get ourselves on the OFFENSIVE. Yes, we can TAKE DOMINION over Halloween! Don't tolerate it. Don't compromise with it. Don't ignore it. Don't fear it. Like good Christian soldiers...TAKE IT. Yes, take back what the Devil has stolen and use it to give God glory! News flash...October 31st doesn't belong to Satan. It belongs to the LORD! EVERY day belongs to the Lord.

The Devil plans on using this day to glorify evil. I say...turn the tables on him. Use it to light your world. You might have a little fun, make some friends from your neighborhood, and...you might win a soul for Jesus.

Take Dominion. You can have an enjoyable "Holy Evening"...you can scare the Hell out of Halloween.

God bless.

P.S.
Family or Church centered activities are desperately needed in many communities. Many parents are concerned about their children's safety or their kids getting into trouble on Halloween. By being pro-active the Church can offer a safe and wholesome alternative to Halloween as part of our ministry in many neighborhoods and communities.

If you want a revolution...you have to think like a revolutionary. Simply ask yourself this one question,

"What would I do for God if I were NOT afraid?"

Then DO IT.

Sincerely,
CH

I actually get your point but the bible says don't let your good be evil spoken of. That being said I would like it better if whatever Christians did was not on Oct. 31. Having it on the 31st would make me think that they were never convinced in there heart about what is wrong with it and just wanted something to replace it that is not directly associated with it.

10/31 is not the only day you don't have eat candy, play with fallen leaves and fellowship with believers.

[FlamingZword]

Originally Posted by Aquila

Here's a little article I wrote a few years ago. Please share your thoughts.

Halloween: Curse the darkness or light your world?

I've got mixed feelings about Halloween. I definitely don't really relish the idea of allowing my child to dress up like something evil and pretend to scare treats out of people. The demonic origins of many things associated with Halloween also cause me to say, "Nope. Not my home."

However, I am thankful for it. It provides an excellent opportunity to teach about several things we often avoid. We can address death, the nature and origin of evil, and Christian history.

There just may be something to redeem here if we look into it. So if you're one of the few who do participate in Halloween on some level here are some considerations. First, here's some history on Halloween...

Originally the Celts celebrated their new year on November 1st. The night before, October 31st, was believed to be an evening when ghosts and spirits returned from the netherworld to bring bad omens for the coming year. So the Celts wore masks and lit bonfires to chase these spirits away. This was the festival of Samhain, Lord of the Dead. When the Romans conquered the Celts they brought with them fall traditions we might find familiar such as bobbing for apples etc. In 835, Pope Gregory IV moved the celebration for all the martyrs (later All Saints) from May 13 to November 1. The night before became known as "All Hallow’s Even" or “holy evening.” Eventually the name was shortened to "Halloween". All Saints was a day set aside by then church authorities to remember Christian martyrs.

What does all this mean for us?

Here are some ideas. If your kids are old enough, it's a good time to teach your children about death and the origins of evil according to the Bible. Give a Bible study on the origin of Satan and warn of what awaits those who refuse to obey the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

It's also an excellent time to remember and teach about those who perished for their faith in Christ. Men like William Tyndale and John Huss immediately come to mind. This would be a wonderful time to teach your kids about the price men paid just to make sure we had the Bible in English. Yes, we can actually turn the tables on Satan and use the day to glorify God's Word. A good idea could be sitting down with your kids and reading a few stories about these men who gave all so we could read the Holy Bible. Maybe review the lives of these martyrs with the youth group as everyone sits around a bonfire. If your church or organization is able, a hayride through history may be an idea. The hayride can carry the riders through various scenes from Christian history. Start with a stop where the ghost of John Wycliffe talks about his life's work, the English Bible. Briefly have him explain the opposition he faced and how his bones were dug up and burned. Visit with William Tyndale as he teaches about his life's work, the persecution he suffered, and his martyr's death. Next stop...John Huss. You are only limited by your imagination. Some may disagree with this idea...but you can make it interesting. Make it a theatrical hayride with the "ghosts" of the martyrs telling their stories at each brief stop, all in the style of Charles Dickens. You can present vivid reenactments or just present the creative story telling of each martyr's surrender to the flames...illustrating their love of God and His Word. This could ignite a fire in the hearts of those attending, not to mention build an appreciation for the Bible and Christian history.

If you're creative, add to the mix fall festivities like bobbing for apples, apple cider, carving pumpkins (actually an interesting Irish tradition), pumpkin pie, or a costume party. Light a bonfire and roast hotdogs. Have LOTS OF CANDY. Let me repeat...GIVE LOTS OF CANDY! Make the unsaved kids in the neighborhood wish they came to your house or your church on Halloween instead of marching all over the neighborhood dressed like spooks and begging for candy in the cold. Do this and you have a celebration grounding your family in the Christian faith, and an excellent opportunity to witness to others.

Our previous church normally had a "Fall Family Night" with a costume theme, festivities, and lots of candy. I think last year we had a Country or Hill Billy theme. There are other possibilities. For example there may be an International theme where people dress in ethnic dress and/or costumes. Or perhaps a History theme where people dress as their favorite men or women in history. One could envision a Wild West theme, a Medieval Europe theme, Super Hero theme, Christian History theme, Bible Characters theme, and the list could go on and on. Nothing demonic should be allowed. Kids enjoy dressing up. Kids love to pretend they are somebody else and it's actually a normal part of their development. Let the kids have fun and enjoy themselves. At the same time you can spend some enjoyable time with them.

The point is that we can move from being on the defensive and get ourselves on the OFFENSIVE. Yes, we can TAKE DOMINION over Halloween! Don't tolerate it. Don't compromise with it. Don't ignore it. Don't fear it. Like good Christian soldiers...TAKE IT. Yes, take back what the Devil has stolen and use it to give God glory! News flash...October 31st doesn't belong to Satan. It belongs to the LORD! EVERY day belongs to the Lord.

The Devil plans on using this day to glorify evil. I say...turn the tables on him. Use it to light your world. You might have a little fun, make some friends from your neighborhood, and...you might win a soul for Jesus.

Take Dominion. You can have an enjoyable "Holy Evening"...you can scare the Hell out of Halloween.

God bless.

P.S.
Family or Church centered activities are desperately needed in many communities. Many parents are concerned about their children's safety or their kids getting into trouble on Halloween. By being pro-active the Church can offer a safe and wholesome alternative to Halloween as part of our ministry in many neighborhoods and communities.

If you want a revolution...you have to think like a revolutionary. Simply ask yourself this one question,

"What would I do for God if I were NOT afraid?"

Then DO IT.

Sincerely,
CH

I like your approach to Halloween how to turn the tables on Satan.

you have great ideas

A lady in our church would have pumpkins carved with Christian symbols and pass out Christian tracks along with every bag of candy. She considered Halloween a great day to witness to little children, she would dress like an angel. I wish more Christians were like her, that turned around a day of darkness into a day of light.

[Aquila]

Originally Posted by Esphes45

I actually get your point but the bible says don't let your good be evil spoken of. That being said I would like it better if whatever Christians did was not on Oct. 31. Having it on the 31st would make me think that they were never convinced in there heart about what is wrong with it and just wanted something to replace it that is not directly associated with it.

10/31 is not the only day you don't have eat candy, play with fallen leaves and fellowship with believers.

It's not a dishonorable thing to deny one thing and replace it with something more healthy. In fact, it highlights the effort to do right in light of what we denounce.

[Aquila]

Originally Posted by FlamingZword

I like your approach to Halloween how to turn the tables on Satan.

you have great ideas

A lady in our church would have pumpkins carved with Christian symbols and pass out Christian tracks along with every bag of candy. She considered Halloween a great day to witness to little children, she would dress like an angel. I wish more Christians were like her, that turned around a day of darkness into a day of light.

We are only limited by our fears. Why give the day over to Satan? Why cause our kids to become filled with frustration and curiosity about what the world is doing? Why not offer Christian alternatives? Take dominion. Don't fear the darkness... light your world.

[FlamingZword]

Originally Posted by Aquila

We are only limited by our fears. Why give the day over to Satan? Why cause our kids to become filled with frustration and curiosity about what the world is doing? Why not offer Christian alternatives? Take dominion. Don't fear the darkness... light your world.

[aaronliford07]

Originally Posted by KeptByTheWord

Where do you think celebrating birthdays came from? Is there a birthday celebration anywhere in scripture?

Just pointing this out as you said you don't celebrate Halloween because it originates from pagan traditions. You need to think about how many other things you may do that also originate through pagan traditions.

To answer the question about celebrating Halloween - absolutely we do not.

I wasn't ask if we celebrate it. I was asking why don't you celebrate it. Thanks.