Halloween is now preferred by some children over Christmas. Rev Mark Weeden explains the dangers and suggests safer alternative events
by Rev Mark Weeden
We are living in days where words have been changing in their definitions and usages.
Words matter because they convey concepts so that hearers and readers may have clear understanding and guidance. Ultimately, definitions come from God.
There is a fascination with evil which has been increasing exponentially, and that has to do with the New Age movement and the occult. Many find all this interesting, exciting, spiritual and even real and powerful.
Halloween is coming up, which is marketed as fun, and harmless entertainment for children, especially when “sensible” parents accompany their children around neighbourhoods for Trick or Treating.
However, this too is called evil by Almighty God, who knows the effects and dangers behind the façade. There are subtle snares and dark activities behind the scenes, as testified by ex-occultists like Sam Goodchild, who become born-again Christians and warn us of the dangers.
God has said clearly in the Bible, “When you enter the land which the LORD your God gives you, you shall not learn to imitate the detestable things of those nations. There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, one who uses divination, one who practices witchcraft, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer, or one who casts a spell, or a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead. For whoever does these things is detestable to the LORD; and because of these detestable things the LORD your God will drive them out before you. You shall be blameless before the LORD your God. For those nations, which you shall dispossess, listen to those who practice witchcraft and to diviners, but as for you, the LORD your God has not allowed you to do so” (Deuteronomy 18:9-14 NASB).
Sam Goodchild’s testimony on these pages is a clear warning which corroborates the Bible’s stern words. The New Age and witchcraft may appear good, but as the Apostle Paul said, “Satan disguises himself as an angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14).
There is a fascination with evil which has been increasing exponentially
This is shown so clearly in Johanna Michaelsen’s personal testimony revealed in her book, ‘The Beautiful Side of Evil’. Likewise, Caryl Matrisciana’s ‘Out of India: a True Story about the New Age Movement’ is a sober warning of the evil behind what is portrayed as good.
With the peer pressure of Halloween being so great, parents may wonder what to do. Simply banning it may seem too difficult.
Arrange an alternative. Have a family film evening, or a fun day out instead. Many churches have held a “Light Party” (Jesus’ light, not New Age light!) with games, eats and sweets. That’s more wholesome than Trick or Treat!