Author and pastor Matt Chandler has released a new video called “Should Christians Celebrate Halloween?”
Celebrating Halloween is a controversial issue in many Christian communities, with some churches throwing “Harvest Parties” (which are basically just large Halloween parties under a different name) instead.
But, in this clip, Chandler says that while it’s OK to choose not to celebrate Halloween, one story in the New Testament seems to suggest that’s fine too (as long as you’re aren’t being overly scary, demonic or sensual).
He points to 1 Corinthians 8, where Paul discusses whether it’s OK to eat meat that was sacrificed to idols. Ultimately, he says there’s nothing wrong with it, though he adds, “Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak.”
When referring to the meat in the story, Chandler says, “We want to reject the evil aspects of it, and we want to redeem what’s good in it.” He later adds, “Use this opportunity to be in your community, meeting your neighbors, practicing hospitably, beginning Gospel conversations with your neighborhoods and your friends.”
You can watch Matt Chandler’s full take above.