In this devotional, we’ll read some Bible Verses for Halloween that will shed some light on this burning question… What does the Bible say about Halloween?
The Autumn leaves are changing colors and the grocery store is filled with aisles of candy, so it must mean the Halloween season is in full swing. This holiday brings with it many traditions, including some that make Christians wonder about its appropriateness in a believer’s life. Is it harmless fun or should we approach it with caution? So, let’s set aside our reservations for a minute and explore some key Bible verses that will help us navigate this time of the year and consider how the Word of God provides guidance on such topics.
What Does the Bible Say About Halloween?
When considering Halloween, it’s important to seek the will of God in all that we do. While the Holy Bible doesn’t provide direct references to this holiday, it does give us many warnings against practices associated with darkness and deception.
As followers of Christ, we are called to live as members of the Kingdom of God, rejecting anything that leads us away from His truth. Instead of participating in activities that glorify darkness, we are encouraged to focus on what is pure, holy, and pleasing to God.
Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient.
Ephesians 5:6 NIV
The History of Halloween and Its Pagan Roots
Halloween has its origins in ancient Celtic festivals, particularly Samhain, where people believed the boundary between the physical world and the spirit world blurred. During this time, spirits were said to roam the earth. As the early church expanded into Celtic regions, some of these pagan practices were adapted into what became known as All Saints’ Day, or Saints’ Day, on November 1st. The evening of October 31st, Hallows’ Eve, eventually transformed into Halloween, over time becoming more secular and commercial focusing on carving pumpkins with the kids and taking them to trick or treat in the neighborhood.
However, even with its pagan roots, Christians today have various responses to Halloween. Some participate, seeing it as harmless fun for the kids, while others are concerned about its connections to evil spirits and works of the flesh. But how should we, as children of light, approach it?
Whether we choose to participate in this holiday or not, we can celebrate in the truth of this scripture for Halloween.
He has delivered us from the power of darkness and a]”>conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption b]”>through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.
Colossians 1:13-14 NKJV
Understanding Darkness: Unfruitful Works of Darkness vs. Fruit of the Spirit
Halloween often emphasizes darkness and fear, from haunted houses to imagery of black cats, ghosts, and skeletons. While some argue it’s just make-believe, it’s crucial to remember that we’re called to walk in the light of Christ and expose the worthless deeds of evil. Participating in activities that glorify fear or wicked things may not align with what Scripture encourages us to focus on love, peace, and joy, which are the fruit of the Spirit
Here are two of the most important verses to consider when we compare unfruitful works with the Fruit of the Spirit.
Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.
Ephesians 5:11 NIV
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.
Galatians 5:22-23 NKJV
Free Printable Bible Verses for Halloween Candy
Looking for a creative way to share your faith this Halloween? Download our Free Printable Halloween Bible verses to include with your candy, and spread God’s love to your neighborhood in a fun and meaningful way. These printable Halloween cards are perfect for adding an encouraging message to your treats and shining the light of Christ in your community. Click on the picture to get yours!
Spiritual Warfare: A Battle Against Evil Spirits
The Bible makes it clear that there’s a spiritual dimension to life that we should take seriously and warning us of the spiritual warfare that surrounds us in this unseen realm.
As believers, we must be aware of the reality of evil spirits and spiritual warfare. Halloween’s traditional association with the spirit world and familiar spirits should give us pause. The Word of the Lord encourages us to stand firm in our faith, resist the roaring lion, and avoid any involvement with practices that could invite spiritual harm, such as occult activities or engaging in pagan practices like fortune-telling or summoning the dead.
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.
Ephesians 6:12 NKJV
Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
1 Peter 5:8 NKJV
Avoiding Pagan Practices: The Abominations of Those Nations
The Bible warns us to avoid the customs of other nations, especially those that displease God.
When you come into the land that the LORD your God is giving you, you shall not learn to follow the abominable practices of those nations.
Deuteronomy 18:9-12 ESV
Halloween, with its origins in pagan festivals, can sometimes involve customs that parallel these ancient abominations, such as fortune-telling, communicating with familiar spirits, or celebrating unclean things. The wrath of God is spoken of in relation to those who engage in these practices. As temples of the Living God, Christians are called to be set apart, to follow the ways of the Lord, and to avoid participating in activities that might be seen as evil.
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The Call to Be Children of Light
As followers of Christ Jesus, we’re meant to reflect His light in a world that often celebrates darkness, especially during the Halloween season. Instead of focusing on the works of the flesh or the unfruitful works of darkness, we can use this time to share the good news of the gospel and be a light to those around us.
In this New Testament scripture, The Apostle Paul repeatedly encourages us to be children of light and to let our light shine in the world.
You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness.
1 Thessalonians 5:5 NIV
for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true),
Ephesians 5:8-9 ESV
You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.
Matthew 5:14 NKJV
The Temple of the Living God and the Table of the Lord
The Bible reminds us of our holy identity in Christ, and this holiday is the best time to meditate on these scriptures.
For we are the temple of the Living God. As God has said: ‘I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.
2 Corinthians 6:14-16 NIV
We’re not just ordinary people, we’re the temple of God, and we should be careful about what we expose ourselves to, especially during a time when many are celebrating Halloween in ways that do not honor God. This next Bible verse for Halloween tells us an interesting truth… The table of the Lord cannot be mixed with the cup of demons.
You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons too; you cannot have a part in both the Lord’s table and the table of demons.
1 Corinthians 10:21 NIV
Redeeming the Time: Make the Most of This Season for the Glory of God
While the modern celebration of Halloween may seem at odds with our Christian faith, this time of year also provides opportunities to reach out to our neighbors in a positive way. Some churches host events like “Trunk or Treat” or fall festivals as alternatives to traditional Halloween activities. This can be a chance to share the good things that come from knowing Jesus and to offer people the only way to eternal life.
This Halloween scripture tells us exactly what we should do, focus on Jesus and let Him change us from the inside, out.
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:2 NIV
Dealing with Different Opinions on Halloween
Some Christians may have differing opinions about Halloween. For some believers, Halloween may seem like a pagan holiday that celebrates darkness. Others may see it as a social event without any spiritual implications. Ultimately, it is important not to judge others, but rather encourage each other in love and wisdom. Because at the end of the day, we’re all accountable to our own master, Jesus Christ.
Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters…Who are you to pass judgment on someone else’s servant? To their own master, servants stand or fall.
Romans 14:1-4 NIV
Seeing God’s Hand During Halloween
As Christians, we’re always called to look for God’s hand at work in our lives, even in times that are challenging or uncertain, like Halloween. While the world may focus on fear and darkness, we can trust that God’s hand is guiding us toward truth and light. No matter the season, His presence is with us, offering us peace and wisdom. As we walk through the Halloween holiday, we can take comfort in knowing that God’s hand is leading us, protecting us, and helping us to walk as children of light. So, if this day makes you feel fearful, remember God’s hand is strengthening you and holding you up.
So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10 NIV
How to Celebrate Halloween as a Christian
While the pagan roots and practices associated with Halloween are clear, every Christian should make their own decision about how to celebrate Halloween by seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit and staying true to their faith in Christ. As we consider the origin of Halloween, the form of evil it sometimes represents, and the potential negative effects it can have, we’re called to reflect on what is truly important, living for Christ and sharing His love with everyone we meet.
While the Bible doesn’t officially have a mention of Halloween within its pages, as true worshipers of God, let’s celebrate by focusing on things that are pure, good, and uplifting. And always remember that we’re part of a holy nation, a chosen race, meant to proclaim the glory of our Lord Almighty. Whether or not we choose to participate in the Halloween, festivities this year, we can be mindful of our witness and let our lives be a beacon of light in a world that often embraces darkness.
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