A Pastor Shares His Thoughts on Halloween

[@lisa942]

I struggled with this for many years. One Sunday our pastor was preaching in Ezekiel “o dry bones….” I was not sitting there wondering what I would do for Halloween that year, but it was as close to a “light bulb” moment that I can recall. I went home, got out my craft paint and made a banner with that verse on it along with a couple of skeletons from a store. Then I’d think of another verse that I could use. We would get between 3-400 kids each Halloween so I began sitting out on my porch with Christian music playing, handing out candy and the pumpkin analogy printed on a piece of orange paper. My house became the favorite house on the block. Beating out all the scary decorations of my neighbors. When we put our house on the market, I literally had people ask if the new owners would continue my tradition and how much it had meant to them and their families to see God’s words used in a way that had not been before. You can see my interview with Allie Beth Stuckey on the subject if you search her name and Halloween on KZbin.

[@anonymouslifehacking]

Thank you so much for this comment Lisa! I was praying and trying to come up with some ideas for ways to allow my boys to enjoy what they just see as an opportunity to dress up and go around to the neighbours for a chat and some sweets/candy. We live in Ireland and in our neighbourhood and social group, there is no talk of the occult, only of costumes/dressing up and a chance to visit neighbours and friends. My husband's family have a very light-hearted attitude to the decorations and celebrations. We've talked with the boys about how we celebrate life rather than death, and they've explained this to their friends who asked why we didn't have any decorations up. However, asking them not to participate in their own way (just for fun) didn't feel right either, as there is no talk about anything related to the occult or such. I also didn't want to be seeing darkness in something that doesn't feel dark for them, which I felt would lead them to feel misunderstood and that I wasn't able to relate to their experience of the dressing up and "trick or treating". So thank you for this wonderful way to point to scripture and Christ, (our light and life!) in a way that would open conversations rather than shutting them down.

[@lesyaklein9788]

because I'm so visual the evil decorations hurt my eyes and was a hard month for guarding my eyes from the yucky death/fear decoration, the Lord helped me by telling me to make it death to life. all month the verse highlighted to me was John 11:44the man who had died (Lazarus) came out, his hands and feet bound with linen strips, and his face wrapped with cloth. Jesus said to them "Unbind him and let him go." it helped me

[@sgshaday]

Okay this is brilliant! It is said that Ezekiel was very theatrical and creative in the way he preached so there's that too :D

[@graftedbyYahshua]

What is the pumpkin analogy?

[@lisa942]

There are several versions online. It’s small enough to print 4 x on a letter size paper and then cut so that you aren’t using a ton of paper and it’s small enough to fit in the trick or treat bags. Just search Christian pumpkin analogy

[@SolaScriptura-n-cats]

I was a practicing pagan/Wiccan for 30 years. I know everything there is to know about “Halloween.” I am a faithful and devoted follower of Christ Jesus now, praise God. For me personally, I stay far away from anything that has to do with the occult. I love your videos, Pastor Mike. Thank you for speaking on this subject. You hit it spot on!

[@arcanum3882]

Depends on how you celebrate it, there’s two sides to the same coin. Hallow’s Eve is also Reformation Day

[@benequinones8653]

John Ramirez an ex Satanist is totally against halloween, check out his videos on Halloween. I a totally against halloween.

[@Rude_Boi]

@@arcanum3882 There is no "depends how you celebrate it." If you follow Jesus Christ, don't celebrate it period. The founder of the church of Satan, Anton Levey, said that he "Wanted to thank all Christian parents for allowing their children to celebrate Halloween, the devil's holiday for one day a year." Why do you think he said that?

[@petite2276]

Not many people talk about the occult implications in Halloween, but I would say that many people in the west do practice the occult even when we don't realize. Like Yoga, meditation and the mainstream appeal of being a witch and casting spells.

[@seanchaney3086]

Is there anything we should know about Halloween aside from its connection to ritualistic communion with the deceased?

[@raemarie8725]

Yes Mike. I am formerly involved in spiritism and Wiccan practices and it has always hurt my heart to see Christians practice this. I know it’s not a gospel issue but I feel like there is such negligence and ignorance about this in Christian circles. What really broke my heart was my third month saved, second month in Bible college walking into Theology class with 300 students celebrating what I just walked away from for Jesus. It hurts my heart. I also use it as outreach for my neighbors but even that I struggle with. My soul is vexed. I don’t want to care so much about this but I do. And I truly reevaluate every year but the Lord always leads my heart to STAY AWAY. if I ever venture into “dabbling”, a door seems to open and I get oppressed by demons... (not to mention animals and children/people are tortured/murdered each year on Halloween to the Demonic 🤦🏻‍♀️)...so now one of my main reasons is “I just don’t want to deal with the demons. I don’t want to see them again. I don’t want to be bothered by them”. So I RUN to Jesus and find safety in His arms each year. THANK YOU for carefully dissecting this. It may be that I wrestle with this tension the rest of my life. So? The only thing I can do in FULL FAITH is abstain. I so appreciate this video. Thanks!!

[@kim.hadassah]

The bottom line is: "Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?" 2 Cor. 6:14 This holiday is about wickedness and darkness celebrated by unbelievers what more proof should you need to abstain from this evil. People just like making excuses for their sin. Thank you for following the voice of the Lord, may you always continue to do so.

[@timrodriguez16]

@@kim.hadassah I agree somewhat with your comment, I feel like Mike played it safe on this one... we all know the practice of giving candy is not inherently evil, but the themes of celebration are death, evil, fear, and spirits all of which are opposed to God... why would you want any kind of participation other than outreach?

[@SusanJenkinsArtist]

I love your comment Rae…. Personally, I can’t see God seeing anything good in compromising a holiday that has to do with wickedness. In the Old Testament he told the Jews to have nothing to do with pagan practices. Of course, we can lovingly point others to the truth in ways that aren’t self righteous. God bless you and how beautiful that you came to know the Lord Jesus Christ.

[@raemarie8725]

@@SusanJenkinsArtist thank you. I guess what I mean with “struggling” is this-do I hand out candy or not? I have pretty much landed on a reformation day party at our house on the 31st with games and fun and watching Luther (movie). Nothing of Halloween. No costumes at all. I keep my light on and hand out king sized candy bars with gospel tracts and good bags with the wordless book and toys etc. (we only get about 30 kids). My son does not participate and plays inside with his friends. I have struggled in the past as to whether or not I should hand out candy. But I’d rather hand it out and take that opportunity to give a gospel tract and our churches information than to turn my light off and hide.

[@SusanJenkinsArtist]

@@raemarie8725 I also share about reformation day every year that Halloween rolls around. I’ve never thought about having a reformation day party though, that’s a great idea! and I love the Luther movie! Now I want to watch it again. I live out in the country now, so I don’t get any trick-or-treaters which is really a great thing, but I did used to hand out candy with gospel tracks when I lived in a neighborhood. I like to consider what Paul taught when it comes to Sharing Christ in this world. Corinth 9: 19-23 I believe he is teaching that we can find common ground in order to share the gospel, but in no Way does this mean to compromise with the world. For me, compromising with Halloween would be …attending a Halloween party, dressing up, having our house is decorated with evil elements, etc. While finding common ground is to somewhat beat Satan at his own game… such as Handing out a Hershey bar with the gospel message. I like a commentary that was written here about Paul’s message in Corinthians… “When in Athens, Paul established rapport with the Greeks before telling them about Jesus. He stood amidst their many idols and commented about their devotion to their gods (Acts 17:22). Rather than rail against the idolatry of Athens, Paul used those symbols of pagan pride to gain their attention. He could be “all things to all people” for the sake of the gospel.”

[@lynnbehnke6910]

When I was about 7 years old, my very normal non-churched parents dressed my new baby brother as a little devil with horns and a forked tail. Even at 7, I thought this was a bizarre and bad choice. As a respectful child, I didn't challenge them, but I think the Holy Spirit was already leading me to make choices that were outside my family's idea of standard, acceptable behavior.

[@YoreLocal]

When I was young, I always called out things like that. I see it as normal now, but I don't want to.

[@oluwatosinolaniyan5486]

When I came to America, I was shocked at how Christians accept this type of worship. I started to pray for my child. May God deliver us from deception and seduction of Lucifer.

[@LifeOnHoth]

so not for one second did you stop and think that what you see as worship is in fact not worship? Not judging you. I'm not american even. But it's a trait of the human brain to read intentions into situations that otherwise didn't exist.

[@dakotadaily7404]

@@LifeOnHoth its human nature to worship.

[@yeshuaischrist9951]

STOP BECAUSE YOU NEVER SAID WHAT PERFECT COUNTRY YOU ARE FROM?

[@oluwatosinolaniyan5486]

@@yeshuaischrist9951 why do you feel agitated towards my comment. My country has nothing to do with my comment. No country is perfect!

[@oluwatosinolaniyan5486]

@@LifeOnHoth let me define what worship means to me in the simplest way you can understand. Any form of reverence in a man's life that is repeated and consistent. There is no worship without a altar. For instance, Christians worship God and follow Christ by consistently praying and fellowshiping with God and sacrificing our mundane lives for the Life of Christ ( Koinonia). Once an act is repetitive and consistent, it because a form of worship. I am always grateful for the grace of God on the west to bring to gospel to the East but let the west learn from the East. Beyond the Love for God, fear God and obey His Word. Teach your children the way of the Lord, so that when they grow up, they will not depart from God's ways. Do not be deceived, God is not mocked, He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek him. He hates compromise. If you are neither hot nor cold, he will spit you out. No one like his/ her tea lukewarm, it is either a cold tea or hot tea. You can't be in between. Revelation 2. Let the church wake up.... amen

[@gladisgamez9386]

I just do not feel comfortable as a Christian to celebrate Halloween .. so my husband and I chose to not participate with our children 🙏🏼❤️!!

[@cheneethompson5756]

I see where you're coming from

[@thetruthinhim8862]

On October 31st, I like to celebrate reformation day. That's when Martin Luther nailed the 95 thesis on the door of a church in Wittenberg, Germany.

[@kathyharrismusic953]

Do your children participate? I wonder if we are desensitising our children

[@spencergsmith]

@bobby bitchass you could make that argument for television, or violent video games, or playing spin the bottle as a middle schooler… not specifically condemning any of these activities, but our standard for what is and isn’t right for our kids shouldn’t be what other kids often do or have done.

[@elkanaharthur7713]

I'm concerned that eaching the children that it's only a holiday might not protect them from the things that they could experience outside your home when they grow up. I was always taught Yoga was just exercise but then I went along for exercise with people who were worshipping the Earth and I felt very uncomfortable!

[@alinakrohn7726]

Good point on the origins debate... And also that it's not a Gospel issue. I'm a previous witch, and now my practice on Halloween is to hand out candy and gospel tracts dressed as myself :) lots of witches still practice animal.and human sacrifice during that week, it's a high holiday in witchcraft. I personally don't want to mix the two, which is why I don't dress in demonic stuff and it takes a lot of effort for me not to cringe when I see fellow Christians dressed as witches and demons. I'm still working on it😁 God bless you Mike! Thanks for this video

[@90out10]

I appreciate your comment here. I cringe when I see Christians dressed up as demonic ideologues as well. I'm not a big fan of dressing up as horror movie characters or any of that gore. However, I'm not opposed to wearing a costume depending on the costume. Halloween is one of my favorite holidays during the year because of Jesus. if we give Satan one day of the year, he will take all 365. So I don't even give him halloween. Instead I celebrate Halloween in Christ. To paraphrase Paul: death where is your staying? Hades where is your heat? You've got nothing on me. I'm saved by the blood of Jesus Christ. I will fear no evil and I will celebrate in all things through Christ. May you grow deeper in your relationship with Jesus Christ. May many more be impacted by your testimony.

[@mooncove]

By 'witch,' do you mean Wiccan? I had a couple of friends who were Wiccan and called themselves 'witches' interchangeable with Wiccans. But animal and HUMAN sacrifice???!!! Seriously? I don''t know any of them who would perform any kind of sacrifice of a living creature. Plus where would they FIND a human to 'sacrifice' and a whole group of people get away with murder when the police found out in America?

[@LAURIE-zg3ec]

There’s nothing to “work on” there. I believe the Holy Spirits effect in you causes the abhorrence against evil and anything giving it a place of honor. And I strongly believe that we should not allow ourselves to be desensitized or to steel ourselves against the Spirits leading

[@mooncove]

BTW, I'm asking in all seriousness. I am a Christian now (again and permanently), but I was just curious whether you distinguish between the word 'witch' and 'Wiccan.' Since my (now-former) Wiccan friends freely called themselves witches interchangeably with Wiccans. And I can't imagine any of them hurting a fly, let alone sacrificing an animal or much less a human! I was even invited to attend one of my friend's minor holiday rituals & went out of curiosity, but I made sure she knew I was (nominally) a Christian, and I didn't participate by saying any of the words that they said and would never call on or worship any other 'god' except for God. I didn't get invited back either, so maybe I interfered with their mojo or whatever. I personally found it interesting/educational to see what it was like, but I didn't see anything magical happen. I also went to a 'Druid' ceremony with some other friends that was almost identical. I've since repented of all participation in any sort of paganism or occultism. But having had that experience, I'm genuinely wondering if there's some OTHER kind of 'witch' that does animal and human sacrifice--and gets away with it legally. I thought only Satanists in the mode of Anton LeVay did anythinig like that. Or are you sworn to secrecy because of legal implications?

[@aep7113]

@@mooncove the elites participate in these and human trafficking largely is where they find their victims. It absolutely happens and they even have members who get pregnant and they sacrifice and eat the baby. I know this because my grandma mentored a girl who was apart of said ceremonies. It’s a absolutely horrific. I also have heard of a grandmother that was a witch and would pimp her 12 year old granddaughter out to men and when she would fall pregnant they would force an abortion and eat the baby. 😞 there are true evil people and these friends of yours are opening themselves up to inching closer and closer to doing such things.

[@samuvisser]

As a European Christian, have never understood Halloween. It seems so out in the open evil. You dont even need to research its roots, just look at all the intentional scare tactics, the horror movies, ect. That comes from a very dark source, literally

[@rodterrell304]

Well Christians and Non-Christians celebrate Christmas, The non Christians don't attach what we do with Christmas.

[@kathleennorton7913]

Yes, and it should be common Christian sense.

[@brandonwellington3547]

I whole heartedly agree. It's Satan's holiday no matter how people try to de fang it. Evil holiday

[@Alienanywhere]

Legalism based in pride is wrong because pride is Satan's way. Satan's methods are more subtle than costumes, candy and Jack-o-lanterns.

[@annagrace1159]

Exactly 💯

[@tonycruz4327]

Mike, I appreciate your careful thinking on this subject. I myself wasted 8 years of my life in occultism where this was a sacred day so I personally don't celebrate it for this reason. But here is my thought, the cute princess and the cool cowboy will most often turn into the sexy nurse and the zombie cowboy. And I'm not even gonna touch the fact of the outreach from occultism.

[@dynasty03212005]

Exactly my thought!

[@IsabelJRP923]

Agreed

[@JoseHernandez-he2yc]

yup

[@aliceobukhova7604]

Agreed

[@emilysmith3636]

Tony I wasted years in the occult too praise God I’m Done with it.

[@Weissguys6]

Yes, as a believer I attempt to do nothing that could be disrespectful to my Lord. Passing up Halloween is a simple, no-brainer.

[@IsabelJRP923]

Thank you

[@adreish]

So true!

[@misterdontplay58]

No it isn't for every believer...sometimes itv takes growth and conviction....I'm sure it's believers who have sacrificed more than you or live a holier life than you....so let's be careful as believers study and seek God they are able to leave things off the world behind...after 30 years of doing something everyone doesn't change over night 🙂

[@NelidaUtuwatu]

The real holiday is Nov. 1st anyway 😂😂😂

[@ChristAlone_]

Amen like, it’s not something we should have to debate on 🤣

[@Sarah-ln4qc]

I figure Jesus said ,” leave the dead, to the dead” for a reason and I think we can celebrate a bountiful harvest during Fall but we don’t need demons and witches to do it lol. Or haunted dead stuff. I’m not scared of it but it doesn’t bring Glory to God.

[@IsabelJRP923]

Thank you

[@tamaraoconnor5483]

Good point! I praise God that He brought you out! But the bottom line is that whatever we do, we should be bringing glory to God.

[@elisasizemore8404]

Amen

[@albertlopez2237]

Good point

[@sgarcia1]

I agree. And we should apply that to our own actions as well

[@dorispeterson9059]

As a Christian.. I lost my taste for Halloween. Too much Evil is celebrated and practiced in the name of Halloween. I've seen evidence of animal ( Pets) sacrifices.. on Halloween. Devil's and Vampires, black angels. Yeah ...NO THANK YOU.

[@SlingandStoneVideos]

Someone once told me and it really has been helpful "If it convicts you then you probably shouldn't do it". That's not to say if you aren't convicted then you're in the right because sometimes we are deceived. My point is if it's convicting you then it's just better to not take part in whatever that is.

[@samanthajeffers9339]

I think that’s a good and biblical answer.

[@kimberlymitchum5170]

Me too

[@Dearest_Kenyetta]

This is actually scripturally based. Romans 14:23 ...this is why we need the leading and in dwelling of Holy Spirit, because He will lead us into all truth. On one hand we can look at the origins of most things and find them to be Pagan, and we can feel that there is absolutely nothing we CAN do. It can become idolatry/religious to expose all these things in order to avoid them. This is where the grace and mercy of God comes in, and also a prayer life. We can't be so consumed with these things, but we must be sensitive to The Spirit and when He reveals something to us. We honor Him when we act/obey in response to what's been revealed. Halloween is not a gospel issue, nor is it something I feel the need to fight for to keep participating in, because it is evil in summary. My comments are based upon research I've done from the testimonies of former Satanist and witches. Satan is authorized to traffic in ignorance...he doesn't care that you don't know that you are playing with his stuff. The Bible says, I would not have you to be ignorant of Satan and his devices.

[@justapseudonym7]

@@Readrose8 conviction is when the Holy Spirit makes you aware of a sinful behavior or thought and in response you should repent (ask God for forgiveness and change)

[@livingforChrist]

Totally agree.

[@jimwyatt6652]

For me being a true Christian I don’t have to do anything. But as a believer it’s a want to please god . Personally I don’t believe that Halloween is pleasing to GOD.

[@AB-qn7zy]

Because it isn’t 🙌🏾

[@ibperson7765]

Amen Sir. Two quotes: “Love God, and do what you will.” - St Augustine (Because if you really love, you’ll study and try and etc etc, to please Him) ---- “One praises God because God is mighty, another because God is gracious, yet another solely because He is essential goodness... He who fears, he who profits, are both concerned about self-interest. Only in the son is that love which seeketh not her own (I Cor. 13.5).” - St Bernard (Having said that, he later indicated it’s far better to obey from fear or benefit than to disobey, but the point stands that love is the best motive.) ---- Also see 25 places scripture says to love God on page: “25 Bible Verses About Love For God” (Head-up: almost half are OT).

[@canabiss8297]

Did typing that comment please God? That isn't how our Christian logic works.

[@jonathangoodwin5609]

Maybe not, but dressing up as a superhero or ninja and going out to get candy isn't gonna Displease him eithet.

[@commenter5901]

I would think that the majority of people, especially those who didn't grow up in the church, have never thought of how God feels about Halloween because they never saw anything wrong with dressing up or going door to door or eating candy. For the majority of people, the worst part of Halloween is probably the eating of candy because it's bad for your health and rots your teeth. So if your body is a temple to the Lord, you should cut out all candy and exercise regularly to be fit and healthy as God intended. Dressing up is just a fun activity. Any dress up days have always been my favourite no matter the occasion. Crazy hair day and pajama day are two of the best imo. For Halloween, I could see it being dishonouring to God if you dressed as something bad/evil/inappropriate. I've seen women dress in very inappropriate and revealing dresses for their weddings, but I don't think weddings are evil because of that. All that being said, I don't do Halloween because I've researched into the background of it, and I'm from an area where we used to find a lot of dead and dismembered animals (mostly cats and usually black cats) in the days after Halloween. Those practices lead me to boycott the holiday as a whole, but where I live now, I've never seen anything along those lines and people here just have no idea about it. They literally look at it as a dress up day for kids where they meet neighbors and get candy. I don't understand how that would be dishonouring to God, especially when they serve candy and sweets to kids at church/Sunday school events.

[@edenelston7668]

The fact that 1) candy is available year round, and 2) kids can play dress up year round, 3) parents can give their kids candy and costumes year round, why would a parent choose to engage in celebration/observance of a holiday (holy day) of the occult? I can't see a logical reason for a Christian to continue the observance at all. It's like yoga practice. I completed a yoga teacher training. Surface level, it is physical exercise. But when you understand the why and how of the physical practice, you cannot separate it from its heretical spiritual aspects. The poses have purpose, they prostrate oneself to false gods and demons. The thing is, we are Spirit beings in a physical body- what the body does the Spirit follows. And this is why Halloween is a danger. Because it provides an opportunity for greater satanic/demonic influence. God refused to be worshipped as pagans worshipped their gods. Appropriating every pagan practice to Christianity because it's fun and not "inherently wrong" doesn't mean God is pleased with it.

[@Shangri-LaGrange]

You said it far better than I could! Thank you!! Thank you. 👏🏼

[@e.n.6079]

Thank you for your comment. I think as Christians we shouldn't be involved in Halloween or Yoga. Definitely not. God bless.

[@aliceobukhova7604]

Absolutely and beautifully expressed.

[@thartwig26]

Spot on!

[@analisavazquez8815]

Amen to that. Thank you!!!!!

[@brittei]

This is definitely helpful to me. I’m newly Christian and I’m not even with a church yet, but I noticed last Halloween, since my eyes were opened, how evil it all is. When I was younger, it didn’t seem like a big deal, but I wonder how much it primed me to let evil into my life. I appreciate this nuanced approach because it IS complex, but I do think my conscience is still saying no right now. And this isn’t coming from any outside influence, it’s just something I noticed after finally seeing & believing in God. Evil is clear as day to me now.

[@prestoncunningham7379]

Hey just saw ur comment was wondering how your walk with Christ was going. Hope your well. God bless

[@rebeccatipton9410]

God bless you! I'm so glad you are in Christ and your eyes are open! What a gift! Hold on to Christ and the moral clarity he is giving you!

[@evangelinelough730]

My thoughts exactly

[@LL-lj1kq]

For many years I would give out age appropriate Bible tracks and a good quality candy. Telling the kids who came to my door. God bless you , be blessed, God loves you ! I always prayed over the tracks before hand. I felt the mission field is coming to my door, let me show Gods love.

[@terryhuffaker3615]

Yours is an awesome approach to a secular holiday..

[@luziela.dugart6987]

My question to you is WHY YOU WANT TO DO WHAT EVERYONE IS DOING? Is not wrong give tracks or information about Jesus and hand bibles out!! Why you want to be part of THE RITUAL ?? The candy IS THE FOOD IN THAT DAY WAS OFFERED TO DEMONS ( all the decorations around your home I mean your neighbors home ) I still don’t understand why we Christians are not living in the spirit why you don’t understand that everything have a meaning on the spiritual realm. You participate on the ritual Candy ( food offer to a demon) Transaction you give away the candy to kids Ritual ( kids put the candy inside the pumpkin or bag u other ) Bag , pumpkin u other ( representations of your skull or soul The ritual is giving the food in this case the candy offer to a demon to a kids soul or skull or mind when the kid put inside the container.

[@gabrielvondohlen4755]

@@luziela.dugart6987 you didn’t watch the video

[@lorikotarski1345]

@@luziela.dugart6987 obviously u didn’t watch the video !!! And You shouldn’t criticize ur brethren for ministering to children !!! She gave them a track and candy , which they will except the track better . Remember the saying , u catch more fly’s with honey ! Love in Christ !!!

[@lorikotarski1345]

God bless you !!! Ur doing the right thing ! And don’t ever doubt what ur doing is wrong ! Think of all the kids and parents who will respond to these tracks !!!

[@nomfundomolefe2219]

Here are my thoughts, Muslims have a festival called Ramadan. They have a specific date for the festival and rituals that they observe. The best response to this festival by me as a Christian is to totally disregard this festival and completely not participate in any way as it is spiritual festival that is NOT in line with my spiritual beliefs. The same mentality should be applied to Halloween in my opinion. There is no need for Christians to participate in any way in a spiritual festival of ungodly descent. Christians that do participate should simply be encouraged to stop, no matter how innocent their participation appears.

[@waterheaterservices]

Aisha was only six when Mohammed 'married' her, nine when he laid on her, yet still people follow, and our Infallible Imam Obama [peace be upon him] remains popular after publicly exalting Mohammed. Who needs Halloween, life has enough real horror.

[@schoolroomjourney1521]

Agree. But consider this. Ramadan is a very specific holiday to a specific religion. Halloween is rooted in a variety of ways both religious and pagan. On Ramadan, I will live my life serving the Lord and on Halloween I will live my life serving the Lord. And I don't think dressing up is synonymous with celebrating the pagan rituals (depending on what you dress up as). I mean let's be realistic. The bible never instructed us to observe Jesus' birth. Neither did any early Christian observe his birth. But we celebrate it today and we give gifts to each other and get all emotional during that season. I think everything we do is a matter of the heart. So many people on here who judge one another on one thing but have not removed the planks out of their eyes (not referring to you but others). So, on Ramadan if I decide that I want to fast for health reasons, I don't think that I'm a sinner because I do it on Ramadan every year. For every day belongs to the Lord and Satan doesn't lay claim on any day.

[@TheFlacapreciosa]

@@schoolroomjourney1521 🙌🙌🙌🙌

[@bengough6955]

Actually your best response is to reach out to your Muslim brother or sister and help them in their homes when they're absolutely wrecked from not eating all day

[@zaegomez26]

Praise the Lord sister! I’m an Afghan and American and exmuslim and I agree with everything you 100 percent that you said about Ramadan in comparison to Halloween! Also Islam has a lot of witchcraft FYI - but thank the lord for JESUS and HIS blood and HIS word for it truly sets us FREE! 🔥👏❤️👑🙏🏼

[@raquels1293]

I grew up in a family obsessed with Halloween. As early as I can remember I was exposed to very realistic gory costumes worn by the people who I loved. I also had to take weeks of extremely gory decorations in the weeks leading up to the day. My family would take trick or treating and though it was innocent in a sense behind closed doors I was horrified. It became a gateway into the occult. I am now a Christian and our family will never celebrate it because i remember what it did to me. My children will be protected until they’re old enough to discern what they’re seeing on that day.

[@ourblissfulhaven]

Amen! Not worth it to participate!!! 🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@Vivtmbs1]

I wanna do the same - protect my child from Halloween. How do you do with with your little ones?

[@cangel201]

@@Vivtmbs1 Don’t take them with you to the stores and don’t participate. It’s not hard! Remember you are the boss, the appointed guardian of your precious ones! Don’t give into the peer pressure. Our 4 never did hallowen, and missed nothing. You can always get a bag of candy for them.

[@Vivtmbs1]

@@cangel201 👍👍did they ever ask you why they cannot celebrate and their friends do? I am just wondering how I’m going to deal with those type of questions when my daughter is bigger too

[@siobhana5307]

@@Vivtmbs1 I was taught that evil/bad things go on. I think you should buy sweets (only thing I had fomo about lol) and stay at home. Make the room warm and cozy, watch a movie and spend time with your children. They won't feel left out.

[@laurieb5843]

This was very helpful. I see nothing wrong with trick or treating and think it's a perfect chance to reach out to the community but you gave me some thought provoking ideas. Thanks

[@jrallen5417]

Almost immediately after being saved and washed by Jesus my desire to partake in things like Halloween seeing that lines need to be drawn for myself and I do realize that I am in no position to pass judgement on others of their participation there of! But in my opinion, be cautious and prayerful.

[@Mcfirefly2]

I think there is a difference in an approach to how we handle it ourselves, and how we see and judge others for partaking. Not everyone is coming from the same place in this. Handling it wisely for our own family does not mean we should condemn the little princess's family for taking her out for the big, fun night. Another thing: when Christians attach the same importance to a _day_ as the occultists do, basically agreeing with them that Satan (in various disguises) "owns" that day, we give too much glory to Satan. So while there may be things we'd be wise to not participate in, we've got to be somewhere "in" the day. We can't refuse to partake in the day, even if we refuse to partake in the celebration; we're going through it, no matter how we go through it. So, having to be somewhere, we can be there to greet the trick or treaters. I think Chick Tracts is right about this. A mission field comes to our front doors once a year. We can give some nice treats, and a couple of good tracts, and those kids will remember the kindly Christians who seemed to care about them, and who paradoxically gave them something about Jesus with their candy. A memory like that can mean a lot to a child or teenager as they make their way through growing up. They may be desperate to remember any kindness in this world at all, and that these Christian people were kind in Jesus's name may be all that comes to mind. The very fact that the evil in the world is worsening, makes it all that much more important to show hospitality in His name: to make a declaration of His saving love to them. Kids have it much worse in this society than we realize. What was extremely rare when I was a child, is now the second or third leading cause of death for high schoolers and even for middle school students: suicide. They need us; they need the testimony of Jesus Christ from people who show they care about them.

[@chaboi7]

Its demonic

[@friarrodneyburnap4336]

October 31 was created by God for God in Christ Jesus... There is no difference... it's a Holy Day unto God. . .what sinful people do on that Day is between them and God...why don't Christians get up set about the other 7 days Wiccans celebrate...and the 4 phases of the moon that celebrated by witches each month...mankind needs to here about Jesus, and the reason for your hope in God in Christ Jesus...not why certain days are evil...their is no such thing as a day that is evil, all days are Holy and created by God. . .sinful things are done my evil men that don't want to retain God in their memory. . .so they are given over to a reprobate mind to do those things that are inconvenient... Sin goes on around us constantly, but we make a big deal about a certain sin, but many of us never witness or share our faith . . .but want to point out October 31 . . .as the great evil, what is evil is people that claim the name of Christ, but will not share their faith to the lost . . .Hodos!

[@michaela.kelley7823]

Amen

[@michaela.kelley7823]

@@friarrodneyburnap4336 really? Old testament states Gods "set apart" days as holy days. And dressing our children up as witches and occultic vampires was definitely not one of them. God is Holy. How can you possibly even suggest that it might be alright

[@ashleyholder2218]

Me a Christian who dressed up in day of the dead makeup last year for Halloween 😳👀😬 I never thought of it as evil and necromancy, but you’re right it makes total sense now. I won’t be making that mistake again! Thank you for your insight!

[@childofthelivinggod.]

Trust me last year I dressed in a much worse costume 😬 never again! God bless you ☺

[@natedog2014]

Day of the dead isn't even Halloween, but thanks for demonizing my culture.

[@zzevonplant]

I'm really impressed with your humility on that. A lot of people will get angry and defensive about a video like this when they feel convicted about something they do/used to do/whatever. But you didn't do that, and I think that's really refreshing. God bless.

[@katieholmes3941]

Lord bless you. 💖

[@katieholmes3941]

@@natedog2014 what is it then?

[@kalync5948]

As a new Christian who spent nearly two decades as a pagan, I am thankful that you touched on the subject of people like me having a different association with Halloween. This is a subject my husband and I are talking through regarding our children. I would also add that the harvest festival is also, in my personal experience, something pagans celebrate and something I choose not to participate in or allow my children to participate in. Thank you so much for your common sense biblical evaluations! They are very much appreciated!

[@therootedpilgrim9917]

This video just popped up on my home page. I guess it's getting near that time again. For me, I don't do Halloween for the same reason. I used to love Halloween when I was a witch. That said, whilst I don't celebrate it in the sense that so many others do and go mad over it. If I were living in a place where there were children going trick or treating (as it happens, at present I don't), then I would have a simple pumpkin out front and some candy bags with some kids tracts in. And I would make sure the pumpkin had the name of Jesus calved into it, so those who do knock on the door are aware of that first. Small children would never be on their own anyway, so the parents would see that.

[@soywho9837]

poor kid :( If i couldnt participate in the harvest festival i would be very sad

[@violetgypsie]

Harvest festivals were in the bible as an honor to the Lord God.

[@therootedpilgrim9917]

@No catchy Nickname Hello. I don't, I'm sorry. I have a 21 year old now so I'm a bit out of touch with kiddies stuff. Could you put together something yourself from this?

[@deborahleedlb]

Kalyn C, I realize your comment is at least 3 years old. Perhaps your thinking or perception of harvest festivals has changed in these last 3 years. Maybe it's still the same. Anyway, I want to take the opportunity to shed some light, hopefully a some new knowledge and a new understanding of this concept of "harvest festivals" or "harvest parties." I really just want to bring clarity and understanding to the concept of "harvest festivals." "Harvest Festivals" DO NOT have pagan origins. If you go back to the Old Testament you'll find out that the Israelites had "harvest festivals." Believe me, feasts connected to harvest ARE mentioned in your Bible. The Feast of Weeks (Shavout) marked the first fruits of harvest, and the Feast of Ingathering (Sukkot) marked the end of harvest. In the Hebrew calendar, the Feast of Ingathering finished on the twenty-first day of the seventh month, Tishrei, which falls between late September and late October. Starting at Exodus 23, verse 16, [GOD...... the GOD of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, is speaking to HIS people, the Israelites. HE says]: 16 “Celebrate the Festival of Harvest with the firstfruits of the crops you sow in your field. “Celebrate the Festival of Ingathering at the end of the year, when you gather in your crops from the field. 17 “Three times a year all the men are to appear before the Sovereign LORD. 18 “Do not offer the blood of a sacrifice to me along with anything containing yeast. “The fat of MY festival offerings must not be kept until morning. 19 “Bring the best of the firstfruits of your soil to the house of the LORD your GOD. “Do not cook a young goat in its mother’s milk." Exodus 23:16‭-‬19 It is described again in Exodus 34.22-23, where it is called the ‘Festival of Ingathering": "Celebrate the Festival of Weeks with the firstfruits of the wheat harvest, and the Festival of Ingathering at the turn of the year. Three times a year all your men are to appear before the SOVEREIGN LORD, the GOD of Israel. 27 Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Write down these words, for in accordance with these words I have made a covenant with you and with Israel.'”----Exodus 34:22‭-‬23, 27 Then, if you go to Deuteronomy and chapter 16, there it is again. First off, let me tell you, GOD is speaking here and HE'S speaking through HIS servant Moses and it's just before it's about the time for Moses to "fall asleep (die)." Remember, Moses doesn't get to enter the Promised Land because of the disobedience of the Israelites and himself but GOD does allow Moses to get a glimpse of the land but from afar. So GOD speaking TO Moses: "Go up to the top of Pisgah and look west and north and south and east. Look at the land with your own eyes, since you are not going to cross this Jordan. But commission Joshua, and encourage and strengthen him, for he will lead this people across and will cause them to inherit the land that you will see.”-----Deuteronomy 3:27‭-‬28 In Deuteronomy, GOD is speaking to the Israelites who wandered in the desert for 40 years because of their disobedience. The remaining generations are preparing to enter the land of Canaan. GOD wants this promised land to show what renewed life under GOD'S blessing looks like. The book (Deuteronomy) presents the Covenant. GOD will give Israel blessings of the land, fertility, and prosperity so long as Israel is faithful to GOD'S teaching; disobedience will lead to curses and punishment. The Israelites are given the 10 Commandments. The Israelites are going to drive out other nations as they're crossing the Jordan. As the story progresses in Deuteronomy, GOD is giving HIS chosen people decrees and laws and then you get to chapter 16. Here, GOD gives HIS people very specific instructions on the observation of the Passover. Then starting in verse 9, GOD gives the Israelites instructions for observing the Festival of Weeks: 9 "Count off seven weeks from the time you begin to put the sickle to the standing grain. 10 Then celebrate the Festival of Weeks to the LORD your GOD by giving a freewill offering in proportion to the blessings the LORD your GOD has given you. 11 And rejoice before the LORD your GOD at the place he will choose as a dwelling for HIS Name-you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, the Levites in your towns, and the foreigners, the fatherless and the widows living among you. 12 Remember that you were slaves in Egypt, and follow carefully these decrees." Then continue reading on in chapter 16, verse 13, for: "THE FESTIVAL l OF TABERNACLES" 13 Celebrate the Festival of Tabernacles for seven days after you have gathered the produce of your threshing floor and your winepress. 14 Be joyful at your festival-you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, and the Levites, the foreigners, the fatherless and the widows who live in your towns. 15 For seven days celebrate the festival to the LORD your GOD at the place the LORD will choose. For the LORD your GOD will bless you in all your harvest and in all the work of your hands, and your joy will be complete. 16 Three times a year all your men must appear before the LORD your GOD at the place HE will choose: at the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the Festival of Weeks and the Festival of Tabernacles. No one should appear before the LORD empty-handed: 17 Each of you must bring a gift in proportion to the way the LORD your GOD has blessed you."-----Deuteronomy 16:9‭-‬17 I know it's a lot that I've posted here but I wanted you to see it for yourself and know and understand that "harvest festivals" ARE NOT pagan creations. These festivals DID NOT originate from pagans and paganism! GOD odained these harvests. GOD IS THE LORD OF THE HARVEST!!! In fact, JESUS even said it.... JESUS refers to GOD as “the LORD of the harvest” in Matthew chapter 9, verse 38: "Ask the LORD OF THE HARVEST (GOD), therefore, to send out workers into HIS harvest field.” We can have "harvest festivals/parties." We just need to approach harvest festivals with the right attitude which is to come together with gratitude and thanksgiving for GOD and for HIS abundance for HIS provisions, protections and blessings.....for HIS mercies and tenderness..... for HIS SALVATION!!! It's all in how you approach it. It's an opportunity to thank GOD for HIS abundance of not only food but really, for ALL of HIS many abundant blessings in its many forms. Ever notice that the Thanksgiving holiday we celebrate.... is in November. It follows right on the heels of the harvesting of fields. Observe: We plant in the Spring. The fields are growing their yield all through the Summer into the Fall. Then we harvest the fields in the latter part of Fall. Thanksgiving is right at the end of the Fall season, right before the fields go into dormancy till the next Spring. Again, it's all in how you approach it all. It's a heart issue. Personally, I approach "harvest festivals/parties" as a Believer coming together with my fellow brethren (DO BE SURE to invite some unsaved to join you, think "ministry opportunity") to celebrate and thank JEHOVAH JIREH---which, when translated, means: "GOD my Provider." The word "harvest" is also used by JESUS multiple times. In one instanxe, HE uses it in referring to the lost, those who don't know and have a relationship with HIM (GOD). Matthew chapter 9, starting with verse 35: 35 "JESUS went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news (the Gospel) of the Kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. 36 When HE saw the crowds, HE had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then HE said to HIS disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. 38 Ask the LORD OF THE HARVEST [GOD], therefore, to send out workers into HIS harvest field.”-----Matthew 9:35‭-‬38 JESUS tells HIS disciples to carry the message of salvation to all peoples of the world. We, as Followers of JESUS have been commissioned to go out and spread the Gospel. Many people are ready to believe in and receive JESUS into their hearts...... to have a relationship with the FATHER and SON.......to be welcomed into the Kingdom of GOD. As the Great Shepherd, JESUS understands that this is their greatest need. This is how they will be rescued from their harassed and helpless condition. This is how they are snatched and rescued from satan and eternal damnation and given peace, joy, and the hope of eternal life and an eternal home with the FATHER. We Followers are the "workers." There are so many who are unreached, so many who are lost, unsaved who need to hear and receive the Gospel. The fields are white for harvesting. The workers need to go out and bring in the Harvest. That's another kind of "harvest party." A party that celebrates the bringing in of the lost sheep!!! I can't think of anything greater than to be able to witness expressions of joy on the faces of my FATHER and my SAVIOUR as THEY are seeing the lost rescued and brought Home!!! To witness FATHER GOD'S pleasure in seeing HIS children doing what they have been commissioned to do by HIS SON JESUS----> to go make disciples 19 "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the FATHER and of the SON and of the HOLY SPIRIT, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." I hope this helps you to see "harvest festivals" or "harvest parties" in a whole new light...... and in a new and refreshing way.

[@GracefulAnswers]

This popped up because KZbin knows I love your videos and it just reminded me why I recommend you all the time. You think carefully about each topic and you are thorough. Thank you for doing this! Keep it up!

[@indiamae3599]

“Real discernment is not just calling something demonic but actually discerning what’s going on”

[@FRN2013]

When we lived in the USA, we put on Bible hero costumes and handed out kids' ministry invitations along with candy. Hundreds of people coming to our door was opportunity for the Gospel!

[@StarboyXL9]

Funny how he says that, but then proceeds to actually fail to discern what is actually going on. He's the reason my old friends and I found Christians such "easy marks" for corruption and used to mock pastors.

[@FRN2013]

Joe G you talk about discernment, but your whole channel is devoid of discernment.

[@jordyn_shorts]

What is your take on Christmas and birthdays? Im not a jehovah witness, but I've been hearing more people say these holidays are pagan and come from pagan roots. Isn't everything we do rooted in paganism? Having a car, cash, weddings???

[@batgirlte9953]

My separation from Halloween was because for me it was an idol. I mean I spent 365 days a years consumed by Halloween above all else. This past Halloween. I said a prayer over the candy I bought for the kids and asked the Lord to keep the kids safe. I felt a lot better.

[@somethinggood9267]

I'm curious, what do you mean when you say you were consumed with Halloween all year?

[@brettyboi6940]

@@somethinggood9267 I think I understand; I've got friends who, when they don't have anything else to do, spend their time buying and looking for Halloween decorations and costumes. Often gory and lustful, and it's just this real weird obsession with being overtly yet subtly demonic

[@somethinggood9267]

@@brettyboi6940 yeah its no good for us as people

[@kymarie20]

@John Paul like a revealing costume. Come on now, don't play dumb

[@SomeYouTubeTraveler]

@John Paul Now you're just being semantically dumb. :-P As for the OP, seeing as they're using the name "BATGIRL", I would venture a guess they were a cosplayer. I could be wrong, so I don't mean to project, but I would like to touch on the whole costume-obsessed side of Halloween. Whether professional or as a hobby, cosplayers can make incredibly amazing costumes, and Halloween and convention season become the biggest, circle-in-red-sharpie days on the calendar. And because of the time involved, it can become an obsession. Even more so if you have personal doubts and self-loathing or anything that would double down on your desire to escape, change yourself, receive praise for your creativity and ability to disappear into a costume or role. And often times, the highest praise goes to the most lust-inducing costumes. _That's_ what Bretty Boi and Kylee Marie meant.

[@dwaynecollins01]

Hi brother Mike, this is a well thought out video as you attempted to address every aspect of Halloween. My family and I do not celebrate it but we do not look down on people that do celebrate it...my humble opinion on it is this..."Do not conform to the patterns of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will.

[@joshipp761]

Great scripture to reference for this topic & very applicable.

[@SonOfHutch]

“Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.” we are our brothers keeper and we need to judge eachother

[@RUT812]

@@joshipp761 The scripture reference is Romans 12:2 King James Version 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God

[@marilynb.2365]

Thank you for this video. I am a new Christian with an 8, 5, and 2 year old and am trying to lead them by example, while still learning myself. I am right there with you about wishing we could snap our fingers and make this holiday go way. But since we can't, I appreciate you sharing your wisdom. This post made a lot of sense and helped ease my concerns so much. Trunk or treat fall festival, here we come 😊. It's usually before Halloween Day, on church grounds, and the kids get the experience without all the darkness and fear. Also, I agree so much with "Satan gets no days"! God is our creator and created all days. They all belong to Him! ❤ I am saddened by Christians who seem to want to lead with fear. It's what pushed me away from knowing God in my earlier years. I won't let fear keep my children away from knowing true love. Gods incredible love!

[@ProdigalDaughter71]

As a former Pagan, and someone who's always loved Halloween and all things scary... This helped me so much. Thank you! Especially the verse Romans 14:22. It confirmed what I knew in my heart but didn't want to admit. It is wrong for me because of my past. I'm newly back to Christianity and I am very greatdul for your teachings!!

[@spreadthetruthinlove2540]

Thanks for sharing! I threw out all of my Halloween decorations 4 years ago after being convicted of all that’s associated with that time of year. God bless you and keep you 🙏🙌🤗

[@Em_Powell_KC]

It’s so hard when we have to follow convictions differently from other believers. It makes us pause and think, wait am I wrong? 1 Corinthians 10:31, do all for the glory of God which looks differently for different people to an extent.

[@markputt8887]

the journey has just begun! creepy former pagan practicer, now redeemed by the Teacher of righteousness

[@ITouchGrassIPromise]

The word "Halloween" comes from All Hallows' Eve and means "hallowed evening." The history of Halloween dates back to a pagan festival called Samhain. Hundreds of years ago, people dressed up as saints and went door-to-door, which is the origin of Halloween costumes and trick-or-treating.

[@MeanBeanComedy]

That's dumb. It's a Church Feast day.

[@thomaseisenhour9147]

Dang dude..... I'm reading the comments and I honestly think that there was less blow up when you covered alcoholic consumption. Who knew that playing dress up and getting candy from your neighbor on the wrong day could elicit such a response? I appreciate you continuing to tackle every topic from as many points of view as possible. Continue to keep everything rooted in scripture and we all good ☺️

[@Fairfax40DaysforLife]

Yeah, Christians are experts at firing at the wrong targets.

[@Jaxmusicgal23]

It doesn’t help when other Christian KZbinrs who have a following and believe we need to abstain and avoid all and any idea of evil and darkness, even calling Thanksgiving pagan.... they come on here and post comments with the deliberate attitude to pick fights, call people unbelievers and not Christiansfor having differing opinions and convictions on how to handle holidays... It doesn’t bode well when overly judgmental people show up. I should know, years ago I was one of them and all it did was cause anger, resentment and exactly what is going on in many comments and their replies!

[@meligarrett9197]

I grew up in the occult so I avoid Halloween,however scripture says on these issues “ let each be persuaded in his own heart.”

[@Jaxmusicgal23]

I am the same... well my parents were involved. I was a serious Christian from 8 years old because of what I saw in my own house. It was only up until recently my hubby has shown me we can be a light and hand our candy bags with scripture and not decorate with Halloween but fall decor and be a light in the darkness in what God called me out of. I only was comfortable and listened these past 2 years as I have seen more and more people fall away from the faith and biblically illiterate people in the church. We still don’t go trick or treating or go to Halloween celebrations ourselves. If even one person reads those scriptures and tracks and turns towards or back to Christ, it was worth it and it takes away one more soul from the devil and his demonic hoard and it makes me glad to know I am poking that fallen angel in the eye when I do this on Halloween. Beacon on the hill... I try my best to live up to that now as much as I can even if I fail or don’t do it exactly right. But, you are right. We all must make our own decisions and not assume anything about other Christians for their choices whether informed or uninformed.

[@fatalx916]

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? Jer 17:9 KJV Don't follow your heart. Follow the bible.

[@aprilscott2369]

Romans 14:5

[@fatalx916]

@@aprilscott2369 read that verse in context. It's talking about fast days.

[@seanchaney3086]

Church Harvest Festivals were always fun and kept kids safe.

[@pmc2999]

I loved Halloween as a child but it was a whole different world. It was literally a evening where for some reason adults had us dress up in costumes and go get candy from all the neighbors. It was great. We wore plastic face masks of princesses, cats, pirates. Whatever was the current Disney cartoon in the 1960-1970s. As a child there was no discussion among children or adults that it was anything but a fun holiday. It wasn't until my late teens that there started to be talk in my church that oh maybe this is questionable. But now all I see is increasingly gory and satanic themes that I would never allow any child of mine to be involved in.

[@Cryptosifu]

Why do you feel that way now? I'm curious, if it seems from indoctrination. I'm 57, and I love Halloween, especially as a kid. I do remember scary costumes then, but I usually opted for the funny characters.

[@infidon9229]

@@Cryptosifugotta dig into the roots and you’ll find out

[@ricksonora6656]

My early costume was Mighty Mouse. Later, my dad used shoe polish on a cardboard box and cardboard “antlers,” and a deerskin robe, to make me the Mad Moose. 🫎 The most evil costumes, back then, were couples dressed up as their opposite sexes, which people thought was hilarious. Now, some people do that year-round, and laughing can get you fired. In 2024, every day is Halloween.

[@JeGab]

Most of the content in this comment section is exactly what's wrong with the church nowadays, and most of them just are throwing their opinions without even watching the whole video... Not even watching the first 5 minutes. And I can see in the live chat there are even more! I'm happy to hear your point of view on this day. It really gives a new perspective to this pastor's kid who grew up with "everything is evil" parents. Now I see great opportunities for evangelism and expanding the Kingdom of God further. God bless you, bro.

[@rosialblo555]

Deuteronomy 18:9-14 “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. There shall not be found among you anyone who burns his son or his daughter as an offering, anyone who practices divination or tells fortunes or interprets omens, or a sorcerer or a charmer or a medium or a necromancer or one who inquires of the dead, for whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord. And because of these abominations the Lord your God is driving them out before you. You shall be blameless before the Lord your God, ...

[@designedtoworship]

In response to this, I would ask 2 things: 1. Is this passage in whole or in part intended for a modern Christian audience (and why)? and 2. Are kids going door to door getting candy, and the people handing out that candy, practicing any of those things? Are those kids and those neighbors an "abomination" because of their actions?

[@fatalx916]

@@designedtoworship if you are a Christian, you're Abraham's seed. This verse was directed to the Isrealites of the time. Isrealites of the time and Christians today are the same. We are God's chosen people.

[@B33nj4m1n]

@@designedtoworship Yeah, I can understand the issue with occult decorations, but... Obviously we don't really have the power to control the decorations other people put up😅 I think it's certainly important to be mindful of how we spend days like Easter, Halloween and Christmas, but... Calling a day evil as a whole seems like throwing the baby out with the bathwater

[@oliviajordan7716]

Great response.

[@michaelnelson8618]

does dressing as a skeleton make you a necromancer? does carrying a sword make you guilty of murder?

[@rachellemellick4233]

Thank you! Well balanced teaching from all sides. Halloween is a complicated issue for believers and you handled it tactfully. Thank you.

[@emiliamarchis528]

Hi Pastor Mike it is four years later since you made this video but it helped me so much today making a decision for this upcoming Halloween. I have allowed my daughter in the past to dress as a princes, and I know I was judged/condemned by others for taking part of it. I am glad to see I’m not the only one who makes a difference between different parts of what this day means. But as you kept saying my conscience now that she is older is making me feel I want her to take no part of it because things are darker for older kids, and she also understands my reasoning for keeping her away from “fun and candy”. Just wanted to let you know that your videos continue to be a blessing. FYI I just came across your channel this year and I have been binge watching/listening because you answer so many of my questions that I had over the years, reading the Bible and being in church. So far I align with everything I heard from you, including the women series.😊

[@jessicaverkler4536]

I remember in 3rd grade our class had to cancel all Halloween activities because one girl’s family through an absolute fit. All we were going to do was have a class party and pass out candy to each other. All decorations and activities had to be changed. I remember that incident led me to have a negative view of Christians, thinking they are just out to make sure nobody has a good time. Having become a Christian myself, I can understand the legitimate concerns people have about Halloween. But I’m glad you pointed out that the people who feel so strongly about Halloween and feel you can’t be a Christian if you take your kid trick-or-treating need to examine their pride, as do the people that live for the scary, gory, and/or disturbing aspects of Halloween.

[@mrskitty7929]

I kept my daughters home from school during Halloween activities in elementary school. We would get lunch at McDonald’s, rent a movie and buy candy. I let teachers know and it wasn’t a big deal. Would l still do that today 🤷🏻‍♀️ My kids don’t think it mattered.

[@StarboyXL9]

While them imposing their will and beliefs on others was wrong, they do not need to examine their pride but remember they are called to be set apart from and not rulers over the heathen. The right thing to do would have been to withdraw their children from school that day and let the school know why. If they were prominent donators to the school or something, ending all forthcoming plans to donate would have been acceptable as well. Your negative view of Christians as "out to ruin everyone's fun" is utterly subjective and irrelevant in all moral reality. If our society considered (as many societies which Christianity destroyed may I remind you) torturing and murdering human beings in public to be "fun" you would still be decrying Christians for "ruining everyone's fun." And before you say, "But I would never" let me remind you that anyone without a diety has no real moral anchor. They simply pick and choose what morals they wish to have at whatever time they feel convenient while lying to everyone else about this state of affairs within them. I know this, because I lived it and watched many of my friends live it as well, so don't gaslight me.

[@Mothobius]

@@mrskitty7929 Why not let them have fun? We don't worship demons on Halloween these days. Some might. You don't.

[@lisafeck1537]

With respect to the tone of your comment. You have no idea exactly what the past experiences of that "Christian" aily was. Perhps they or 1 of them was raised in the occult, pagan life. To me whatever caused such a strong reaction, cannot be automatically assumed that those particular Christians obviously dealing with a sinful pride.

[@purplelover9633]

@@Mothobiusfun lol different strokes for different folks

[@MollyPitcher1778]

I used to love Fall & Halloween. Something fun about the season and the spookiness of that "holiday". All in fun, blah blah, and somehow disconnected to my 'mainstream' Christian background. I haven't participated in this for years. I've noticed that the season has become much more prominent over the decades (since the 60s) and costumes increasingly darker. I'm sure there is no coincidence that our entertainment: music, movies, tv has also gotten increasingly darker.

[@anessarodriguez1320]

If you just take a quick look at the Target entertainment department, it's definitely gotten darker. I cringed inwardly every time I had to stock them...

[@walterromanoff2953]

Pick some apples and take a Bible class

[@reneeb7400]

I think adults have taken the holiday over in the last couple decades and that has contributed to Halloween losing whatever innocence it may have had as I remember it as a child. Adult participation has darkened it and brought in drinking, partying, and sexy costumes for example.

[@childofthelivinggod.]

So glad someone noticed

[@childofthelivinggod.]

This world gets worse and worse :(

[@TheCreativeChica]

I'm a Christian and used to decorate for Halloween with ghosts, spider's, daracula stuff., scary music. I have stopped doing all of that, since I've gotten closer to the Lord. I decorate for fall now. I would still give candy out, but haven't had kids come anymore. I really enjoyed this message.

[@tatyanaz5622]

"Our FATHER in heaven, HALLOWED be YOUR name..." Mathew 6:9 HALLOWED means - made holy; consecrated.. God is holly and He wants whose who call themselves Christians to be holly, too. Christian people supposed to be the temples of God. When Christians celebrate Halloween, they DISHONOR God's name and bring their sacrifices to devil. They participate in pagan idolatry. ""You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons." 1 Corinthians 10:21 God is very just and jealous God. He always tells His people to stay away from abominationa and from worshiping devil. "Abstain from every form of evil." 1 Thessalonians 5:28 "Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them." Ephesians 5:11 When Christians celebrate dressing up in devilry, in unclean spirits , and in all sorts of demonic creatures, they DISHONOR GOD.. When they decorate their houses with all sorts of abominations, clothe themselves and their children in the costumes of posessed spirits, they DO NOT HALLOW the name of GOD, but sacrifice themselves and their loved ones to the devil, and participate in pagan idolatry. Such people voluntarily worship devil and let the demonic spirits into their families. If a Christian person desires and finds attractive horror movies, murder, blood, gruesome images, death, magic, sorcery, divination, palm reading and such....that person just calls himself a Christian, but in reality he doesn't know God. Those who participate in evil, will not inherit the Kingdom of God. "But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars-they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.” Revelation 21:8 Please, Christian people, repent, open your eyes and see how evil we became toward your God, who created us in His image, who wants us to represent heaven, be peaceful, be just, be righteous and holy. Don't dishonor God with the evil deeds, because He will blot out from the earth all who love evil. Psalm 34:16 "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." James 4:7 "Control yourselves. Be on your guard. Your enemy the devil is like a roaring lion. He prowls around looking for someone to chew up and swallow." 1 Peter 5:8 Please take this message before God, ask Him to explain that which is not understood and seek His protection from all evil. God bless

[@jordyn_shorts]

What is your take on Christmas and birthdays? Im not a jehovah witness, but I've been hearing more people say these holidays are pagan and come from pagan roots. Isn't everything we do rooted in paganism? Having a car, cash, weddings???

[@peterwallis4288]

​@@jordyn_shorts how are cars connected with paganism?

[@elissabellajoy]

I watched this about 2 years ago, or maybe 3... and rewatched it today especially because of a pastor friend I wanted to carefully address to call his attention to the dangers of the way he celebrates this holiday (the gory-way). I so appreciate your videos "stacked up" for us to get to them any time we need a thorough study of almost anything by now. I can't express how much your faithfulness to God and to His people means to me and (I can say with confidence) to thousands upon thousands all over the world. May the Lord keep you around for many years to come to help many in learning to think, speak and live Biblically. 🙏

[@2828play]

Brother Winger you are one of the most common sense filled Christians I have seen/hear. I thoroughly enjoy listening to your messages. God bless you and keep on doing what you do.

[@MikeWinger]

Thanks! And, I love cheese too.

[@203patinala]

I agree with you 100% about halloween. I found your videos a few days ago, and I have been watching them nearly non-stop. I'm 63, disabled and these vids have blessed me so much. Thank you from the bottom of my heart and may God continue blessing you, your wife, children (if you have them), kitties (they are adorable), church family and everything in your life. I appreciate your time and work as well as the Q&A, also the fact you say "I don't know " if you don't know something instead of just making something up that sounds good.

[@HopeKuhn]

Pat Floyd same! I was going to comment but this is what I would’ve said 👍🏻

[@FeliciaFollum]

I liked this after the disclaimer...I love how many issues you really break down well and not being legalistic but still speaking Biblical truth...Thanks!!

[@Gratista]

The complexity and thoughtfulness you added to the Halloween discussion was really helpful and much needed for me personally. Big thanks!

[@jean-paulramjattan1920]

Pastor Mike, first off thank you for the work you do, more so the spirit of humility in which you do it! I have so much respect for the work you do! It is because of that respect I need to disagree with you on this. This is not a matter of simply listening to your conscience. I live in the Caribbean it amazes me looking at the American culture and it’s Christianity. The lack of discernment or more so the desensitization of such evil is really alarming. To keep it short, I simply believe the devil beats us at the long game. Most people call out the present problems of today as the devil or enemy. However I believe the schemes of the enemy are much more strategic than most Christians admit. For me training up my children to go trick or treat is opening the door to desensitizing them to one of the most open and evil seasons known. So yes taken in an isolated sense, going house to house for candy is not a sin or dangerous. But like you said Pastor - the common thread is speaking or contacting the dead. Why would we have our kids be ok with such. Because no matter how innocent, we are conditioning them in environments dressed up and covered with spiritual wickedness. For me, and people I do influence I tell them do not partake in such. And I hope other Christians can see the long term seeds being sown and advise accordingly. Halloween should be a time when Christian churches are calling times of prayer and fasting because it is known as a time of deep witchcraft...

[@RandAlthor939]

I too am amazed at the lack of spiritual discernment by my American brothers and sisters.

[@Morris311]

I totally agree, Jean-Paul. This is the high time for witchcraft. The time they pray and fast .So should we even be trying to join in, support, "celebrate" with our kids?? Disney has already accomplished much in desensitizing the youth and their parents. Now if someone, even a Christian, wants to participate in this kind of thing, he will find a reason to do it...and his conscience will agree. Dangerous advice, Pastor Mike.

[@valerieventura1437]

Well said !!

[@paulajames6149]

For those that disagree with Mike, I do not see any biblical support only your own opinion. Mike, thanks for this video. It was very helpful. I live in a heavily churched area and people give us the side eye because we have pictures of our kids wearing past costumes (cat, snow white, dragon, etc.) during Halloween. I continue to decorate my front porch with spiders and bats confidently. I love watching christians give me the “evil eye”. At first it bothered me that people reacted with such disdain but now it just rolls off my shoulder. So helpful to hear your thoughts.

[@elenaagostinho5773]

Jean...I completely agree with you. Why is there a need to celebrate such a holiday that the general public uses as an excuse to celebrate evil. I mostly agree with Pastor Mike's videos and I think they bring a lot of insight but this one I'll have to disagree. Only thing I can think of is that he might be a bit biased due to the fact that he was raised around this tradition and tradition is sometimes hard to break through. May God continue to bless him with understanding and discernment and allow him to see things with more clarity.

[@kathybouza273]

Mike, you said that you wished you could snap your fingers and do away with halloween. For yourself and your family, you can do that. After being born again, I continued to participate in halloween by having my small children dress up(nothing evil) and trick or treat. About 8 years after being saved, I really investigated it and could see no redeeming quality to the day. I explained it to my children and we never participated again. Honestly, it was not a big deal to stop and, poof,just like that it is no longer a part of our lives. I also have 2 younger children who have never participated. So for our family, essentially,it was like a snap of the finger and it was gone. Not hard at all.

[@sandrawiley1755]

Yes,amen,old things pass away,behold all things are new.

[@kathybouza273]

@we thepeople yes, I am very sure. Why on Earth would you ask that question?

[@kathybouza273]

@we thepeople ok, I wondered what I said in my original comment that I had stopped celebrating Halloween (11 years ago) would cause you to ask that question. If you just ask everyone, then fine. Yes, I am very certain that I have been saved by the shed blood of Jesus Christ and He lives in me. And by the way, in case you're trying to say I do not keep the Law. I actually do believe that the Law has not been done away with- the Sabbath and the Feasts of YHWH.

[@sandrawiley1755]

@@kathybouza273 If I may just say this Kathy,you don't owe anyone a explanation of your salvation. Sometimes it just leads to more vain comments, debates, ect.Our Salvation came from Jesus not people.

[@kathybouza273]

@@sandrawiley1755 yes, true, thanks!

[@kimberlyn.2096]

I’m 56. When I was a little girl, we were very involved in church the whole time I was growing up. My parents let us trick or treat and we even had a little costume party at our tiny baptist church. We just didn’t dress up like demons nor did we worship the devil! Things have changed over the years and people have all different reasons for celebrating it. I just think we have to be really careful as Christians. I do mostly Fall decorating, not Halloween……but my grandkids do trick or treat and I do go with them sometimes just to tag along. Mike, I agree. Fall Festivals are the best!

[@FRN2013]

When we lived in the USA, we put on Bible hero costumes and handed out kids' ministry invitations along with candy. A flock of sinners coming to our door was opportunity for the Gospel!

[@khrystalkhoury62]

As much as you love and want to support your grandkids, you should take a strong Christian stand and let them know that this is not what Jesus would honor or condone. Do a harvest party, Bob for apples, make caramel apples, popcorn, crafts with acorns and pine cones and corn stalks. There are plenty of other things to do to celebrate the Harvest besides Halloween. I'm praying for you to be strong in your walk with Christ on this issue

[@FRN2013]

Satan inspired Haman to create a giant pole to kill Mordecai with. But GOD used that same pole to enact justice against Haman. Satan inspired Rome to create a cross to kill Jesus with. But GOD used that same cross to enact mercy for all of Christ's followers. Satan inspired the creation of Halloween. But GOD uses that day to enact mercy through every Christ-follower who is not legalistic, who uses the day for God's glory.

[@davidsarkar6423]

​​@Cow~EL look at you what you typed ! God aka Jesus is a narcissist according to you ? you love halloween so much that you said that to Christ ? man, you western people cry about just halloween ? then what will you do if you live like me in India where I was raised up to enjoy multiple occult pagan festivals since childhood ? but thanks to Christ I have nothing to do with them at all and loathe them ! too week to overcome your idolatry? is this what Jesus Christ meant by being the salt and the light in this world ? to be of this world ? you western people smh ! can't even deal with even just 1 satanic festival ! what's your priority ? Jesus Chrsit the Bible ? or halloween ?

[@AliciaGonzalez-ci9tz]

Thank-you! To answer your question at the end of the video yes, this video was very helpful for me. It is also probably the most thoughtful and balanced view on the topic I’ve heard.

[@SanctifiedPunk]

Mike, this has got to be the most balanced and thoughtful Christian video on Halloween I've ever seen. Thank you. I always appreciate your nuance.

[@Proverbspsalms]

It’s not. What is he even talking about? I’d rather watch paint dry. 3 minutes and he’s still rambling about nothing. I skipped to 29 minutes- still the same crap

[@BirchKST]

@@Proverbspsalmsmaybe humble yourself a bit and listen instead of immediately jumping to the idea that what he has to say isn't useful

[@Proverbspsalms]

@@BirchKST byeeeee!!!!!! I have a Bibles that’s a good enough for me.. Bye bye now!!!!! 👋🏾👋🏾👋🏾👋🏾

[@Proverbspsalms]

@@BirchKST and don’t come to me with something I said a year ago

[@badbonezthlegnd2049]

@@Proverbspsalmsreason it seems as rambling is because he’s trying to go through the history of Halloween and explain the pros and cons throughout the video. Yes it’s over 50 minutes because he’s using the arguments for and against.

[@nathaliavmonteiro]

okay so I just saw the comments, and the number of comments was 666. And well I just wanted to comment to make it 667. That’s all this comment is here for. Hope you are having a good day! God bless 💛

[@nathaliavmonteiro]

@Luke MacDonald it was a joke, chill

[@Powwer69]

@Luke MacDonald What has Mike said that makes him a "false pastor"? You come here and pretend to be superior, and pass judgements on people, damning them to hell. If you have such distain for Mike, then why are you even here, watching his videos and trolling through the comments? Remove the plank from your eye and judge not.

[@craymonmaples7364]

As a Catholic, I very much appreciate your message and your eloquent delivery. We may not always agree, but you definitely give me something to chew on. Great work! Subscribed

[@giovannicorraliza8552]

Please friend try leave catholicim fast as possible the worship of virgin mary and baby Jesus it dosent make sense then the worship of adult Jesus is just confusing and also the pope alter the 10 commandments

[@hannahkroon5233]

This is a very well presented and balanced presentation. I very much fall of the "no-go" side of this spectrum, but happy to hear the argument for the other side. Not convinced, BUT I have friends who are on the other side of this and no doubt that they love the Lord.

[@buxheim]

This was the best treatment of the subject of Halloween that I have heard. Thank you, Mike, for posting this video. It was well researched, thoughtful and filled with Grace and Truth. It helped me a lot!

[@twiceadopted7147]

I struggled with this day as I'm not a big Halloween observer. But kids come to my door and then I found the solution. I put scripture stickers on candy and will also be passing out of the tracts. What a wonderful opportunity to reach people for the gospel from my front door.

[@markwhite5926]

I mean this in love since you said to be straight with you, God called us as Christians OUT of this world, to be in the world BUT NOT of the world! we are supposed to be salt and light in a world were Satan has blinded the eyes of this lost world. how can we be salt and light when we look JUST LIKE THE WORLD! we know that there are real spiritual realities behind these things and as Gods children we should be wise enough to denounce the hidden darkness and live in the light of Gods word, the problem is our generation has no fear of God or any discernment between that which is holy or unholy! the question is WHAT HAS GOD SAID? He said do not learn the ways of the pagans and to do them, as He said they are an abomination to Him(Duet 18) please we need to stand for truth not compromise! it saddens me that we are so weak that we cant just say that its pagan and STAY AWAY. Jesus said we are not to lead children in the wrong way, as it would be better to hang a millstone around our neck and be cast into the sea!to be honest any form of encouragement for people to partake of this unholy, pagan holiday is contrary to the teaching of Jesus.

[@Kreemerz]

Then don't celebrate Christmas if you don't want to do Halloweenie. Christmas is just as worldly of a pagan holiday too.

[@markwhite5926]

Hey, I don't celebrate Christmas it also is not biblical along with Easter! just saying dude, i am trying to be as biblical as i can be, i don't see the requirements anywhere in scripture, we are told to partake of communion in remembrance of what our Lord did for us. that's it . blessings

[@disaffectednarcmagnet2305]

@@markwhite5926 Well said Bro 🤗

[@latepearson7645]

My friend, I speak with love. I was like you a little while ago my friend. Until I realized I was being paranoid, just a bit. Trust me, I don't celebrate Halloween, but to expect me to give a day to Satan is really unadvised. At my church, we like to do a light party so that children don't feel like they are missing out. We dress up, we party and we have fun with our community. This year we are doing a jungle theme. Satan does not get days. I am sorry, but we can celebrate Jesus any day. And I don't mind kids going out and having fun, as long as they are not dressing up in 'scary' costumes. But I don't care if my sister wants to be a fairy. It is not a dividing point.

[@markwhite5926]

thank you! i really do love Mikes teaching in general, as brothers we are allowed to disagree. be absolutely blessed

[@awbruss02]

Hi Mike, at the end of the video you asked if this video was worth doing. My response: Absolutely. I watched this 5 years after you originally streamed it and this thoughtful format is very helpful for me. Been watching your stuff for the last couple years. Thank you for all that you do!

[@vivianpena5041]

Hi Mike, thank you so much for putting this video together. I grew up in a Catholic home and this year became a Christian. I’ve been learning so much from your videos, and as a mother with young kids this was extremely helpful. God Bless you for all you do.

[@ChristAlone_]

The spirit behind Halloween doesn’t entice me to participate at all, it would go against my conviction to celebrate. The fact that most lost people celebrate the holiday is a red flag, so worldly.

[@ChristAlone_]

@The Harrstead …………ok and most of them take their kids to see Santa Claus. What’s your point ?

[@ChristAlone_]

@The Harrstead I use to celebrate Christmas before I got born again too lol never found any significance of it being a Christian holiday . Christmas tree decorating, holiday treats, presents.

[@davidsandrock7826]

Most people in the world _are_ lost. Your point?

[@ChristAlone_]

@@davidsandrock7826 exactly, why would anyone want to celebrate Halloween after being born again ? Come out from among them, be ye separate

[@walterromanoff2953]

@The Harrstead True but most people celebrate gift giving not honoring Christ their lord and savior.

[@velociray]

So, the question is, "Is it demonic?" I think the question should be, "Does this bring glory to God?" I'm only half way thru the video, but it is important to ask the right questions. Children collecting candy may seem innocent, but why are they dressed up and collecting candy. What are you teaching the child, and how does scripture apply to it. Be ready to give a defense. I just can't defend Halloween.

[@karen_ellen]

Ditto

[@treejelloman]

It just seems as if we walk as Jesus walked and truly were led by the spirit we would likely not participate. It’s spiritually unwise. Anyone who understands the spirit realm, from both sides agree this is a major open door for darkness.

[@ibperson7765]

Good point!

[@joshipp761]

I too can't defend halloween. Remember, we are fighting spiritual wickedness in High places

[@karen_ellen]

@@joshipp761 amen

[@lisaheather1884]

I think what you said “does this make you/loved ones stumble” is so important. This mindset to not stumble or not encourage stumbling is the heart of loving each other.

[@blessedeb9366]

Lots of things to think about here as this is definitely an internal debate of my own. I haven’t allowed my children to celebrate Halloween for the past 7 or 8 years. But I’ve considered bare minimum allowing my youngest to dress up for school. Thank you for the biblical perspective. Now I must pray on it.

[@debcurtis6226]

Having grappled with what to do with Halloween over the years I appreciate your common sense approach and hear what you say about its complexity. No matter how innocent we try to make it seem we cannot get away from the whole way in which Halloween is presented, even in the supermarkets, with gore and horror. So, there are a few ideas I would like to mention for your consideration. 1. Someone has already commented that many children who dress up as princesses and cowboys will progress to more horror or sexualised costumes as they get older. 2. Small children still dress up as witches, devils and the like. 3. Even if they don't dress up as above, they will see many who are and houses decorated with horror themes as they go around the neighbourhood. 4. There is a potential safety issue in teaching our children to ask for/accept sweets from strangers. Also I understand that witches pray their own prayers and curses over the candy they give out! 5. The Bible says we must not even imitate these detestable practices (Deut 18:9) see 1&2 above. 6. The Bible says we must be Holy because God is holy (1 Pet 1:16) see 1, 2&3 above. 7. The Bible says we should think on things that are amongst other things, lovely, pure, honourable (Phil 4:8) 8. As the world partakes of this event with its witches brew and spooky sweets and scaring each other in the name of fun people are desensitized to witchcraft, the occult and new age, seeing it as just a bit of fun. Is it really or is it a precursor to the seriously spiritually dangerous? The powers of darkness are subtle and deceptive! Satan wants the world to think it's harmless so that even if people are not involved in his work at an actual satanic or pagan level, he can carry on unchallenged because he is seen as a joke and harmless. Is getting involved in Halloween in any way really honouring to God? As a youngster I was very interested in witchcraft, divination etc and my whole family thought it was just a bit of fun! I thank God that he rescued me before I had any of the really horrendous experiences that some have had. In my spirit I detest it and do not want to be involved in any way but I do hear what you say about it being an opportunity to evangelise. I'm still working that one out 🙏

[@stephaniecain9170]

Thank you for that comment, it really boils down to those points. Why not just train or children in the way the should go, be the example. We don't have to demonize everything but we do need to expose the truth. I don't think we should do our toes in at all. I do like the idea of having something ready for those who knock on your door, everything done In LOVE.😊

[@berto316life4]

@@stephaniecain9170 amen.

[@berto316life4]

Amen. Thank you for this comment.

[@merrittascott4408]

@@stephaniecain9170 Hi, so you continue to participate to please yourself for pleasing the children. I encourage you to read the comments listed here from those who first hand know the dark dark evil of this day. It is a subtle way of demonic to desensitize children of their concern about devils, witches, curses, ghosts, etc. Then they become vulnerable to horror movies which lead them into embracing the very evil we want to think of as cute.

[@Triggerhawk]

Very good comment. Summed up my thoughts quite well. At the most innocent parts it's just like a gateway drug that once begun, takes much much more effort to come out of

[@sweetarts445]

I went trick or treating with my family when I was a kid. It’s a cherished memory I’ll hold forever. We wanted candy .. it was a day we looked forward to because we got a bunch of candy. I grew up in a highly Christian community, they would brag they didn’t “celebrate” Halloween by going trick-or-treating, instead went to church to play games and get candy there. I always found that so hypocritical now that I’m older - they’re still “doing” Halloween , but yet somehow it’s better because it’s in a church? Hmm.

[@thejohnbeck]

Why is that so bad, for the church to make sure it's just a candy and dress up day?

[@Mary_Kraensel]

I attended a church where they allowed the children to dress up, but nothing dark or demonic. They called it a Light Party and did activities around Jesus and the Gospel. What else is nice, is they had a Muslim family bring their children, because (as the father said) they knew their children would be safe and in good hands. Since then, I've been led not to have anything doing with Halloween. Nevertheless, I find that approach to be one of the better ways of reaching out to unbelievers on that day.

[@sofiabravo1994]

@@thejohnbeck exactly

[@BeatnikDesigns]

@@thejohnbeck Why the need to acknowledge the holiday at church at all? I understand that some Christians believe they are providing an alternative but as Christians we should be rejecting anything that brings us closer to the darkness and therefore I think the date and holiday should not be acknowledged at all. If a church wants to have a dress up party with snacks and games do it in a way that is not associated with a pagan ritual.

[@moooovies1234]

Sammi Jacobs, same here. I love Halloween and will never dismiss it from my children's lives. Point. Blank. Period. In advance, Happy Halloween🎃👻🍬

[@XerosigmaZ]

“Abstain from all appearance of evil.” ‭‭1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭22‬ ‭KJV‬‬ Is all I have to say about the subject. Should be more than enough.

[@JacobFollowerOfJesus]

It's not clearly defined to me how putting on a princess costume and asking your neighbors for candy is having an appearance of evil.

[@daniamani2799]

I’ve had this conversation with my husband about Halloween. One thing we both agreed on is that we didn’t know what we were celebrating. We both know what we celebrate when it’s Christmas, Birthday, etc. But Halloween seems so random to us as Christians as we didn’t have a reason for the festivities of the day itself. Thanks Pastor Mike for a great approach to this topic!

[@RUT812]

Exactly

[@musiciandeborah1854]

💯

[@lissamorris8180]

I have 4 kids under 7, and every year I debate on it because, I agree, it is complicated. I ultimately decided for our family just to obstain completely from Halloween, because I think it is good to let my kids practice saying "no" to evil in small ways. They have to say "no" when someone offers them candy with witches on it at school. They may have to say"no" to a party. They have to say "I'm not dressing up" when their friends ask what they are going to be for Halloween. When they are adults, they will have to make the decision for themselves, even more difficult ones, but for now I'll make the decision for them and they can practice standing their ground and denying themselves, even if it's just for one day.

[@Megz207]

Excellent point!

[@teresafarrell6457]

For what it's worth, I am SO proud of you. The Lord our Savior bless your family always and give you the strength to endure anything.

[@GreenandGrain]

Good for you!❤ I know it’s a hard stance to take. Your children will be so much better off and wiser for being raised in such a way. Blessings to you and yours.

[@craftedeyecandies]

WoW Lissa! Never seen anyone with your name! Mine is Berlissa...! Don't mind me lol, I get excited over everything these days.... Anywho, I want to tell you how beautifully you said all that, and I respect you for what you are teaching them and why! My kids and I would participate in Halloween by going to the church for a Hallelujah Fest instead (because we don't celebrate Halloween remember?!) and that is the equivalent to believing in Santa Claus imo, and it never dawned on me about teaching them in depth about the seeds that can be planted by things that seem innocent. God bless you!

[@jesussaves6625]

That's a great point. Thank you for sharing that.

[@TheTinkerersWife]

One of the most thoughtful teachings on Halloween I have seen. It was encouraging and thought provoking as well as not overtly judgemental which these types of teachings are. Appreciated the use of Scripture to give clear understanding on the differences made in points you talked about too. Thank you and sharing.

[@sillau9]

Abstain from Halloween PERIOD!

[@heatherwoods5703]

I appreciate your thoughtful, humble, scholarly approach to every issue. I love how you focus on the need for wisdom. Thank you! 💓

[@JulieRNeidlinger]

I went to Bible college my Freshman year, and one thing I remember most was from a Sys Theo professor. It kind of fits with what you're talking about here, regarding convictions. He said there were three kinds of convictions: 1. Biblical. These are the things the Bible says you do not do. That's that. 2. Cultural. These are the things that are seen as culturally unacceptable for Christians to be doing, where you live. 3. Personal. These are the things the Holy Spirit is convicting you of, and you know you aren't to be doing them. So the first one is across the board for everyone. The second one is kind of the idea that you might not feel convicted, but you know that if you did it, it would be a stumbling block to unbelievers. An example is as a teen, I went on a missions trip to newly unified Germany, to a region in the Eastern part. In this town, for women to wear makeup meant we were definitely NOT church goers. So, we were asked to not wear makeup in order to better reach the culture. Or, in the small town my parents live in, if they were to walk into the local bar/restaurant heads would explode, since they are known to be very faithful Christians and it would be shocking to see them come in there. Yet they visit me and we go to restaurant/bars without any problem because the culture in the city I live is different than living back in the smaller town. The third conviction is kind of what you're talking about here, where your Christian buddy might not have a problem, but you feel personally convicted and so you should not do it. Alcohol can be an example here (one person has no problem, another knows they are to be a teetotaler), or that kind of thing. I've always found this helpful and it clears up so much confusion, particularly when people are going around trying to get you to obey what is a personal conviction for them and then accusing you of sinning because you aren't listening to their conscience. It also helps with better attitudes when you can appreciate the freedom to do something, but also the freedom to not do something out of understanding for a culture, instead of going around angrily demanding your right to do something. For what it's worth.

[@deniseyarde1610]

Thank you for this explanation!!

[@christychapin8357]

Thanks - helpful!

[@hannahscarlettsmith7651]

100% right on!

[@deborah675]

So helpful 🌸

[@garlicgirl3149]

What a great mentor you had to teach you that great lesson. That is Wisdom. You held on it as Proverbs says we are to do.

[@IsaacG8]

Omg, it makes me sad that people dislike and say bad things about you when they disagree. I don't agree with you on everything, but it's refreshing to hear a careful and thoughtful teaching.

[@giovannicorraliza8552]

Please friend dont say omg

[@madj7152]

Why you don't agree? Can you explain?

[@sheilashoop3308]

I love you brother, don't compromise with the world, light has no fellowship to do with darkness

[@NicoleAlejandraMusic]

Whoo! I just started attending a Calvary chapel in June of this year. I love their expository teaching.

[@ronsutton4853]

Good analysis brother. Thank you for your patience and nuance.

[@jenrivera5893]

I'm never not surprised by how well you handle "controversial" Christian topics, Mike. I grew up an atheist and became a Christian at 17. Halloween was my favorite holiday as a kid but not the scary parts of it- like death, gore, zombies, whatever. I think I enjoyed it so much bc it's all about imagination and creativity. At least in the way most Americans practice it (costumes and decor), the best Halloween "experience" is one that has more imaginative and creative energy put in. I think there are plenty of ways to celebrate Halloween and not fall into occult, dark, evil stuff. I did struggle with Halloween for the first 5 years or so after becoming a believer, but not bc **I** felt like i shouldn't practice it, but because of the shame that people I knew put on people who practiced it. I've had to reframe what I allow to be a part of the Holiday (ie decor with eyeballs or something) obviously, but at this point, I feel very peaceful with it being an autumnal and creative celebration.

[@jonathangoodwin5609]

Oh wow, someone in these comments actually has some common sense. Glad to see itm

[@jenrivera5893]

​@spirals 73 thank you, jen- i hope u enjoy the seasonal shift too! totally agree with the Christmas (ie winter solstice) point. actually- learning about that more is what really freed me to trust the Holy Spirit in how to engage and think about not only Halloween, but all the cultural stuff that we (the church) put "Christian" or "Not Christian" labels on. Just seeing the inconsistency and disparity in how we measure what is "Christian" vs not, lead me to an even deeper relationship with Christ. It required me being okay with not knowing absolutes on *most* cultural things, esp as it relates to other people. one thing may be spiritually safe for me, but not for another person or vis-versa.That is the key part of the *personal* relationship and why the indwelling of the holy spirit is SUCH a gift. When i was given salvation in Christ, i was also given the seal of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the literal branding that I belong to Jesus- that i am a Christian. I don't worry about giving or checking if something is "Christan" because I know *I am* . bless you, girl :)

[@jordyn_shorts]

What is your take on Christmas and birthdays? Im not a jehovah witness, but I've been hearing more people say these holidays are pagan and come from pagan roots. Isn't everything we do rooted in paganism? Having a car, cash, weddings???

[@dianespiro9541]

My understanding from a previous witch, it is that we are agreement with the occult when we participate in Halloween.

[@kales2293]

I think you really hit the nail on the head concerning Christian converts. I was raised pagan, and lived my entire life that way with a very negative view of Christianity, passed down from my parents and Friends, probably until around the age of 25. Now that I've been a Christian for 4 years, I can confidently say that I am still extremely confused about holidays. Halloween was samhain or the fall equinox, Christmas was Yule or the winter solstice, Easter was the spring equinox, etc. My husband and I have differing views on how we raise the children and I think this is where it stems from. It's really difficult when at Christmas time I see the same practices and I feel weird participating, and watching my kids participate, but other Christians say it's for Jesus. Let alone the consumerism/lying about fictional characters issues with Christmas that I have. Same thing with halloween. My husband wants to watch scary movies with the kids, he wants to carve jack-o-lanterns, go trick or treating, and things like that, but in my head all I see is ancestor/death glorification. It's difficult to tackle, and I empathize with others who are in my boat.

[@jonathansimmons9921]

You're right, Christmas and Easter are pagan. This whole video could have have been over in 30 seconds. To me, just ask a former pagan about the holidays and you'll learn what you shouldn't be doing. Pagans don't do the holy days of Yahweh.

[@cissyc2587]

I agree with you, those things are pagan at its origin. If you’ve ever listened to satanist, or pagans who come out of it to follow Jesus, they clearly see the evil and don’t participate. I’m Christian and chose to follow Gods feast days. There’s more holy days than modern Christian holidays. The feast point to Christ and His coming Kingdom. 🎉

[@crystalyutzy9670]

Agreed. As christians, we should have nothing to do with pagan holidays. Instead, celebrate Yahweh’s biblical holy days. 💕

[@sharonabbott9588]

Kales, we don't have to cancel Christian celebrations on account that there will always be some other religion or pagan tradition falling on the same day. Look, the people of Israel celebrate Hannukah around the same time Christians celebrate Christmas.. And Jesus celebrated the Feast of Dedication ( Hannukah). So when people say don't celebrate it because maybe it falls on a day other religions have their holy days, that makes no sense at all. Our entire week is named in English after Roman and Greek gods, but it's nothing more than old words that have lost their meaning. I personally would just be concerned with Halloween and the many connections and representations of it. How do you feel when you walk in a store with these decorations, or look at a house decorated spooky? Ask the Holy Spirit if you're not sure.

[@davidsarkar6423]

look at you what you typed ! God aka Jesus is a narcissist according to you ? you love halloween so much that you said that to Christ ? man, you western people cry about just halloween ? then what will you do if you live like me in India where I was raised up to enjoy multiple occult pagan festivals since childhood ? but thanks to Christ I have nothing to do with them at all and loathe them ! too week to overcome your idolatry? is this what Jesus Christ meant by being the salt and the light in this world ? to be of this world ? you western people smh ! can't even deal with even just 1 satanic festival ! what's your priority ? Jesus Chrsit the Bible ? or halloween ?

[@jacobcollins2861]

I love your feedback on this. It is how I feel about it. I was not raised a Christian but my Dad kept me away from evil activities anyway, we did not participate. I also never watched horror movies, I do not understand why people would want to watch others suffer for entertainment. I do let my kids dress up but it's never been an evil costume. I treat Halloween like alcohol, I can consume, but I will not if I am around someone that will stumble.

[@StarboyXL9]

Do you really want an answer as to why people watch others suffer for entertainment? I could give you several.

[@drdebbiejackson]

When my kids were little, we took part in some Halloween celebrations. I allowed the kids to carve pumpkins, go trick-or-treat, and take part in school costume parades. But the rule was no scary or inappropriate costumes. And we didn't do the "horror" stuff--no haunted houses, etc. I felt it was a common-sense approach that allowed for some innocent fun but stayed away from the negative aspects of the holiday. We didn't make a huge deal of it either way.

[@hotwax9376]

That's the best approach I've ever heard of. In fact, I'll probably do something like that if I ever have kids.

[@k.popper2620]

That is how I handled it when my boys were young....I also taught them why Halloween was not a "celebration."

[@Aussboi]

I don't think anyone should take little tweens to haunted houses. But as adults I don't see anything wrong with being spooked in a harmless way

[@luanneneill2877]

Same for us!!

[@patatoe2124]

@@AussboiDepends on the theming of those houses. There is some stuff I wouldn’t want even to see faked

[@emmahannagan6381]

This was a very helpful video for me, even though it was posted 3 years ago the guidance is timeless. Thank you.

[@sarahherzog7422]

Yes same!!! I was really struggling this year and this video helped so much. I wasn’t sure if it was a conscience issue or if other Christians shaming me for handing out tracks saying I was only handing out tracks to make myself feel better about compromising…. Ugh… that comment really messed with me. Maybe because I don’t like Halloween and it did make me feel better to do that band also it was a bonus to put all my stupid feelings aside and get the word out some how. Such a mixed bag of emotions. How does God feel toward me, is it the Holy Spirit or just guilt from others? I loved Mikes approach to all this, so much more thoughtful to any other preacher I heard on the subject!

[@marijoherman4652]

I agree. Halloween is a very complicated celebration in our Society. Thank you for your teaching. I don't have children so I don't have to try to teach them what it's all. I enjoy passing out candy to the children that come to my door on Halloween. I thank God for salvation, eternal life and his love!

[@tacticaltradingpennystocks7206]

I struggle with this issue, just as Christmas & Easter. Thank you for your measured approach & discernment. Great Video Pastor Mike.

[@jamesgriego9729]

Christmas and Easter are slightly different. Early Christians would be arrested and executed for celebrating Christ. They hid their celebrations amongst pagan holidays so as to Celebrate Christ's birth and Resurrection without being martyred.

[@Jaxmusicgal23]

My husband and I felt convicted for a long time due to my family history in witchcraft and the occult (I renounced it as soon as I was mentally competent enough to read the Bible and listen to the church we attended-yes occultists attend church). We felt the weight of the New Testament asking us not to celebrate pagan holidays (started with Halloween and then Easter) and began finding Christian ways to honor God’s appointed feasts and celebrations in the Old Testament, starting with Passover. We abstained from Halloween all together until 2 years ago when we felt hiding isn’t the answer. Our kids do not trick or treat but they dress us in not scary or evil costumes and we give out candy with carefully picked out tracks that aren’t super cheesy...and be sure to have amazing candy!! We decorate with fall themes and not Halloween and jack o lanterns. Last year, we had a branch fall off a tree and my kids played a prank for Halloween and stuffed their clothes and made it look like a branch fell on a person... the was the closest thing we got to Halloween decor. It was funny. We can’t be stiff-necked like I was for years prior when my hubby wanted to bring up handing out candy and a scripture or message. We hand those out because my hubby said we need to be a light in the darkness of what we think is evil and not hide away refusing to share the gospel on one night because of what it stands for. I realized my family background isn’t a reason to hide from this holiday but to find ways to fight back evil and reach someone for Christ. Easter we abstain personally from any non- Christian symbols like bunnies and eggs and such and we celebrate Passover. We call Easter “Resurrection Sunday”. My MiL is upset sometimes because she thinks the quintessential childhood must have Easter eggs hunts and all these things but my kids really look forward to staying up late and having Passover sitting reclined on the floor and listening to the story of Moses and Jesus. We would celebrate presents part of Christmas on Epiphany or Wise Men Day in January on a more obvious day to share gifts....when the wise men brought Jesus gifts.... But my hubby’s mom would throw a literal fit about it. Christmas is her favorite holiday. In fact, it causes her stress prepping for it because it has to be the same every year with very few exceptions or understanding of others traditions who “join” the family (like me). We respect what we consider a “weakened” of her faith and don’t want to hurt her so we still celebrate it but without a Christmas tree in our house. We have nativities and lights and Christian symbols of Christ’s royalty up (crowns, the star and lambs). She hates it but my hubby put his foot down about us making our own decisions at learning our home. All this to say... Be a light, make exceptions to a certain degree for “weaker” Christians and find alternatives if need be.

[@brittaneyhostynek9796]

This was the most helpful and reasonable discussion on Halloween I’ve ever heard. Thank you such Mike!!👏🏻

[@mariagil1315]

Hi Mike! My name is Maria, and I'm a Spanish teacher. As a cultural tradition, I teach this theme, however, I don't touch the religious aspect of it. My students are given an option to either participate or not. I don't have them build altars, but they do get to do a project where they do a presentation about a deceased relative or celebrity...the whole purpose of doing this is to celebrate the deceased person's life. Day of the Dead is a day to remember passed love ones/individuals, recognizing their positive impact on us. It's a memorial, if you will. We don't contact spirits, or do anything related to ancestral worship. Sorry for the long paragraph, but I just felt like clarifying. I'd still like to know your thoughts on this. Thanks for your vids and for inspiring others to follow Christ. God bless!

[@laelpeiris1799]

That's very good, but unfortunately, not everyone shares your thinking. As Anglicans, we simply remember and thank God for those who have gone before. We cannot speak to anyone who has passed the veil. No one can cross that veil either, unless sent by God specifically, for a specific purpose. Like Lazarus, was sent back by God, for a specific purpose, to show the power of the Holy Spirit and the power of Jesus Christ.

[@uoCloud12]

Thanks for your thoughts Mike, especially for being so intentional about it all and really looking at the many aspects of the issue! May the Lord continue to use you! 🙏

[@lr6844]

Mike, my two cents worth.....the fact we are even questioning whether Halloween is harmless or not, should answer our doubts.

[@bjs4360]

The reasons why we are questioning it should be the only answer we need.

[@lr6844]

@@bjs4360 We agree.

[@refugeeca]

@@bjs4360 That's an exceedingly slippery slope. I bible studied with old order Mennonites for a couple years.

[@kenim]

@@lr6844 I cant believe that we cant draw the line in something as blatant as Halloween anymore. If we cant here, where do we draw it??

[@kloponline]

Fantastic video. My wife and I were both struggling with this today, found your video and it really helped us make a decision that honors the Lord. So appreciate you and your work for Christ. Looking fwd to your video on the Sabbath.

[@KarlitaDeann08]

I know this was a year ago but it definitely helped me think more on the holiday. Knowledge can be VERY helpful, period lol. Thanks for your content

[@Nickolasmb]

Careful what you endorse.

[@lolaparra9389]

Nick Bowen yup!

[@bryanbursiek1593]

Mike, just wanted to say you have an amazing insight for topics even unrelated to biblical Christianity. I was saved about 6 years ago now at the age of 35 and ever since then I've been constantly learning watching countless hours of videos from pastors, teachers, apologist atheist and everything in between from multiple different backgrounds. I lived as an atheist well leaning more agnostic most of my life and I just wanted to say that you truly have a gift for teaching and if our churches were filled with pastors with the same mindset and understanding that you do the impact it would make would be tremendous. I am currently in my 1st year of seminary for my masters in apologetics and your material rates too of my list as sound teaching. Of course I test everything with scripture and I just want to say keep doing what you're doing because you are helping people more than you probably are aware of. Also I am in doing one of my papers on mormonism in some of your videos have been a tremendous help.

[@eddiebrewster6992]

saved from what? atheist leaning toward agnostic? Sounds more like Pascal's Wager Syndrome.. Allah akbar?

[@bryanbursiek1593]

@@eddiebrewster6992 saved from eternal death apart from Christ, but I'm sure you are well aware of that.

[@eddiebrewster6992]

pretty much. I am well aware of *all* of the stories... Joseph Smith, Charles Russell, Hubbard, Mohammed, Tertullian, Sabellius, Arius, and so on... each story is a bubble of delusion that theists are trapped inside of. its simply a matter of taking your pick. IF there was only one and only one story for Christianity then Christianity may have stilts to stand on.

[@WhaleSquishy]

This has been helpful. I prayed two nights ago about this topi. And for our Lord to show me guidance. Thank you.

[@elisatolle4931]

I came from the occult to Jesus and I never thought about how much that really colored my view

[@michaelhenderson405]

Thanks PS Mike. I am really passionate about this subject, but my argument has ALWAYS been origin based. Your teachings helped me see that this argument is really inefficient when trying to show people the wisdom of God. As I was taking notes through this, there was times that I had to stop, pause for 20 mins and really think about the last sentence you said haha. Really love and appreciate the time you put into this. Definitely made me think, and reflect with God a lot!

[@susanavasquez3431]

Being of Mexican decent , day of the dead is one of those traditions that is hard. The small town my parents are from ,part of the tradition is to clean the cemetery and place fresh flowers. The older generations clean the cemetery and make it a moment to remember their loved ones. This felt okay with me, but the alters and all that ,I don't feel comfortable. Thank you for your explanation and me too big how traditions can lure us away from God. I needed to hear that.

[@jonathansimmons9921]

Also because our loved ones are not in those graves anymore and we are commanded to not talk to the dead. People are just wasting time and money when they visit graves and place flowers. You'll see them again one day if they lived holy and if they didn't, then they should be forgotten anyway.

[@RUT812]

My husband & I moved to Mexico this year. We won’t be participating in Halloween or Día de los Muertos. We’re retired & neither one of us is Mexican. Also, I have never felt comfortable with either one of these things, perhaps because of my Pentecostal upbringing. The only spirit that fills me & leads me is the Holy Spirit, & I feel a personal conviction not to participate.

[@annavandekrol1560]

This video was so helpful. I really appreciated seeing all of the 7 sides with this. God bless you and your ministry Mike.

[@DwideShrude]

First I want to say I appreciate your kindness and delicateness to everyone on all sides, I do enjoy hearing you speak. I didn’t grow up Christian, I got saved as a teenager and am now a mom of 5 in my late twenties. I do agree we need to listen to the Spirit guide us in all things and our conscious changes as we grow in Christ. Hopefully we are more aware and stay away from certain things as we mature. For me and my husband, Halloween really makes us cringe. My mom and dad and siblings still celebrate and love Halloween, which at first was hard for me myself to give up because Halloween was genuinely fun- but it violated my conscious. Even if my own kids are dressed up in innocent costumes, we would be bringing my young children out in an atmosphere that overall is dressed in evil. They themselves wouldn’t be wearing demonic outfits, but we are subjecting them to a world of people who are- who are having fun doing so. Yes me and my husband have the discernment not to follow that behavior, but children are easily influenced by others and are still learning. Not to mention the nightmares they would have by some of the things they would see. Most houses around here are covered in fake blood, dead bodies on the lawn, etc. That is scary to a child. I feel in my own heart I wouldn’t be protecting my children from a possible window to the enemy. Just as drinking in itself isn’t a sin, it’s an innocent window of opportunity for Satan to creep in. Even if I myself don’t struggle with getting drunk- I probably shouldn’t go to a bar. I think this is a very similar situation. We may be leaving a vulnerable place open in our heart for the devil to subtly creep in and create problems. We don’t completely cancel out Halloween and shun the community, we also use it as an opportunity to hand out tracts with candy, but the amount of things I have to police around this time for my kids is stressful. Constantly having to switch the channel on the tv so they don’t see commercials of movies and shows that the media loves to push in the fall, and no kid network is absent of this. It’s frustrating as a parent for sure. And I’m not saying commercials for a friendly pumpkin type movie either- but advertising the dead. I think even with a non-convicted conscious and partaking in innocent practices, there is always at least a little bit of compromise that comes with it- whether they are aware or not. This in no way is a salvation issue at all and no one should feel condemned for enjoying trick or treating, but I do think the fun of it sometimes blinds people from the darkness that absolutely comes with Halloween. Not everyone- but a lot of people.

[@StarboyXL9]

Thank God there are still parents like you. You should probably get rid of the TV though. It isn't doing your children any good. I Promise.

[@musiciandeborah1854]

I love this take. Very, very well said. :)

[@DwideShrude]

Thank you! :)

[@kathrynwendel4624]

Sooo, I just want to remind everyone that this is just someone’s opinion on the issue. The origin of halloween is much bigger of an issue, it’s irrelevant how you want to spin something in modern days if it was created for something absolutely evil and celebrated every year after in remembrance of that. You cannot remove yourself from the meaning of halloween out of convenience, just because we tend to forget things over time. I feel like he’s trying way too hard to justify the celebrating when as a pastor you should just take all things to the word of God. Now…. These are my feelings about this based on years of being a lost soul and getting involved in very dark things, finding Jesus and being saved by Jesus and the conviction I’ve felt in my heart over this issue, plus what I’ve learned from former Satanist, etc…… I think everyone should take their concerns to the Cross…. Pray and ask for the Holy Spirit to give you discernment.

[@aliceobukhova7604]

Agreed 100%

[@jamie1682]

They should take their concerns to the Lord, but the Bible says we should be of the same mind. That is part of the problem with today's church or the body of Christ, they are pulling in different directions. This holiday is evil and that should be apparent to all.

[@schoolroomjourney1521]

I'm not sure from hearing the entire video that he was excusing the celebration of Halloween. Rather I think that he was pointing out that just because you are celebrating something on a pagan holiday doesn't mean that you are participating in a pagan ritual. He even said that if you dress up for Halloween you could be causing someone to fall who came out of the life of pagan worship. I personally think that the way churches have changed this celebration to glorify Christ is acceptable. I think that relinquishing the day to Satan is even more of a travesty. I also don't think it's correct to judge the content of someone's heart if they take their kids trick or treating. Unless you are willing to toss out every other holiday that is rooted in pagan rituals (Christmas). He was very clear in this video about the issues surrounding the celebration of Halloween.

[@pamelaholliday216]

Halloween, like you lightly mentioned is a high holy day for Satanists and occultists. Still today, as in the time of the Druids, animal and human sacrifices and torture continue by these groups. Taking part in celebrating this day is agreeing with and condoning the reasons for the day which are totally anti Christian. I'm shocked that as a pastor you don't understand the demonic side of this day.

[@kenim]

@@schoolroomjourney1521 appropiation by participation is a ridiculous theory that is more in line with Dominionism. The bible prescribes one simple way to things: Be Holy as your Lord is Holy. Holy means SEPARATE. Even “Hebrew” follows the same principle: one from the other side.

[@melanielaurentino8472]

Thank you so much Mike for this helpful video!!! You brought so much clarity. 🙏🏻🙌🏻 I am an elementary school teacher and I didn’t know whether or not I should dress up. My conscience is accusing me, so I have decided not to dress up.

[@rawar777joshanderson]

Mike thanks for your thoughtful approach to this. I have never felt any check in spirit to the level I am involved with Halloween: costumes/trick or treating/jack o lanterns. But my wife is all the sudden wondering if we should quit taking the kids trick or treating. So I had her watch your video thinking she'd come to the same place on it as me. When we finished watching this she said "OK, so I feel good about NOT trick or treating". haha Oh well. This is a freedom I can sacrifice for my family haha.