Sharing the Gospel this Halloween
My wife and I have different opinions about Halloween.
In my childhood it was a big event. My mother would plan a dinner for our cub scout den and then we would go as a group from house to house collecting candy.
My wife's family totally avoided Halloween. One of the churches she attended celebrated 'Reformation Day' the next day, Children dressed up as Bible characters and came to a a party at church.
I don't know what your opinion is about this holiday, but I do know it is a great time for evangelism. Here in Australia I do 'Trick and Treat'. I explain the Gospel using a simple magic trick for my object lesson and then give out candy.
I thought you might like some conversations starters:
For Teenagers
- "If you could dress up as any hero or villain this Halloween, who would it be? Why?"Follow-up: "What do you think makes a person a true hero in real life?"
- "What scares you the most—ghosts, zombies, or spiders?"Follow-up: "Do you think fear is something we can learn to deal with? I’ve found it interesting how many people say prayer helps when they’re scared."
- "If there was a flashlight that could light up everything inside us—like thoughts and feelings—how would that feel? Do you think it would be a good thing or a scary thing?"Follow-up: "In the Bible, Jesus is described as the light of the world. What do you think that kind of light might reveal in us?"
For Young Adults (20s)
- "Halloween tends to blur the line between fun and creepy. Do you think people are drawn to things that scare them? Why?"Follow-up: "The Bible talks about the idea of fear—but it also says, 'perfect love casts out fear.' How do you think love can help us overcome fear?"
- "If you could reinvent yourself for a night with a costume, what would you be? A different version of yourself, or something totally new?"Follow-up: "Ever thought about the idea of starting over in life—not just on Halloween, but for real? That’s actually something Jesus talked about, the idea of new beginnings."
- "We joke about ghosts and spirits, but have you ever thought seriously about the idea of an afterlife?"Follow-up: "Different people have different beliefs about what happens after death. What do you think gives someone confidence about the future?"
For Adults (40s and Older)
- "Do you remember your favorite Halloween costume from when you were a kid? What made it memorable?"Follow-up: "It’s interesting how we sometimes wear ‘masks’ in everyday life too—whether at work, with friends, or family. Do you think people can ever be fully known and accepted?"
- "What do you enjoy more—scary movies or ones with a happy ending?"Follow-up: "It’s funny how stories of good vs. evil are so universal. Why do you think people long for the good to win, even in a scary story?"
- "Halloween brings up themes of light and darkness. Where do you see light and hope in your own life these days?"Follow-up: "In the Bible, Jesus is described as the light of the world, offering hope even in dark times. Have you seen hope show up in surprising ways?"
Before I go, let's pray:
Lord Jesus,
I know that people have different ideas about Halloween. Keep us from being judgmental toward those who choose to celebrate or not celebrate this holiday.
There will be many people coming to our doors on Halloween. Give us wisdom in how to share Your love with them. Open up many doors for conversations, both before and after this day.
We love You and thank You for the many opportunities You will give us to talk with our neighbors and friends about the most important topic in the world.
Amen.