12 Oct 2007

Halloween-Great for the Gospel!

by Kevin Williams
Halloween is fast approaching and unfortunately this is a time when most Christians, shut their curtains, lock their doors and pretend they're not at home in case 'trick or treaters' knock at the door.

Now despite the obvious reasons that Christians shouldn't get involved in the celebration of Halloween, it is a great opportunity to share the Gospel.

Think about it, the parents of the little kid up the street are hardly likely to complain that you are telling their little one about the fierceness of God's anger and the severity of Hell, after they've knocked on your door covered in fake blood, fangs, a demon mask and a fake knife sticking through their head. Think of it as kids knocking on your door to hear about Jesus. Halloween is a great way to share the Gospel, so start preparing now. Here are some tips:

1. Get plenty of chocolate bars in. Kid's won't storm off in the middle of you witnessing to them, whilst your stood there with Mars bars in your hand that they know they will get at the end of the conversation.

2. Learn how to present the Gospel Biblically. You've got just over 2 weeks, so take time to prepare by watching the videos and listening to the audios on the link: Learn How To Share Your Faith Biblically The kids will give you longer to witness to them, than they normally would, so make sure you give them the real Gospel and not 'modern evangelism'

3. Think what you are going to say before hand (The videos in the link above will help you) and make sure your terms are clear and explained. Don't expect a 10 year old to understand words like Repent, Saved, Born Again, Fornicate, etc.

4. Prepare some CD's to give them to take home with short and clear Gospel messages on, and use printed labels so they look the part, these should only cost about 30pence each. (If you haven't got the know-how or equipment to do this, then ask a Christian who has for help). The parents, as well as the kids may listen to them.
Suggested messages to put on:
Paul Washer 19 minute Gospel
Or this Gospel message Kirk Cameron-the Mirror - (Click on link to play or right-click to download mp3)

5. Get Some Good Gospel Tracts for them to take away. Like these Halloween Tracts: or these excellent tracts from Living Waters. I particularly like the Good Person Cartoon Tract as it's easy to read, and also the Pink & Blue Curved Illusion tract as people won't just throw them away. The Hey Kids-Ten Commandment Memory Tract are also great for young children.

6. Get some good little witness booklets in, to give them to take away, like this little Why Christianity booklet by Ray Comfort.

7. Get some little Gospel booklets to give away. These can be purchased at about 35-50pence each from a Christian bookstore. My favourite to give away are the Gospels of Luke and John.

6. As a Christian this goes without saying; be polite and friendly. The greatest love you can give them is the whole truth of the Gospel and this includes sin, the law, and God's Justice and the punishment of the wicked, but this should come across with warmth and concern.

7. Encourage them to read the Bible and start with the Gospels. If they haven't got one, maybe you could offer to get them one. Let them know if they have any further questions they are welcome to come back and ask you. And recommend to them a good church.

8. Don't get bogged down with trying to convince them of the evils of Halloween. Remember you only have a limited amount of time with them, so spend it wisely with a clear and Biblical presentation of the Gospel.

9. Pray for these Children, and their parents, that God would open their hearts.