Tis the Season for Trick-Or-Treat (Part 3)
If we apply Scripture consistently, we have three general rules:
- In private or without information, do what you want (whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
- In public or knowing other peoples’ sensibilities, do not offend. (Give no offense to the Jew or to Greeks or to the church of God, just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved.)
- If you are unsure, go with your conscience. (The faith that you have, keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who has no reason to pass judgment on himself for what he approves. But whoever does doubt is condemned if he eats… Romans 14:22-23)
Note: See Romans 14 for a slightly different angle on this and other similar issues with the same outcome.
A CHRISTIAN RESPONSE TO HALLOWEEN
- We cannot condemn it because of pagan associations, otherwise we must do the same to Christmas and Easter.
- You should not participate in costumes that represent evil or costumes that are provocative and/or perverted.
- You must respect the views and sensibilities of those around you. Your fun is simply not worth more than their faith.
- Rule of Thumb #1: If you ever find yourself saying, “They simply need to get over-it,” then chances are that you have a sinful attitude and used your freedom in Christ for sin.
- Rule of Thumb #2: If you feel bad or uncomfortable participating, then don’t! But don’t condemn those who do.