Halloween and Romans 14

When I preach on Romans 14, which is quite often to be truthful, I give two examples of how I am both the weaker and stronger brother on some issues. For example, my theology of Christian freedom means that I have no problem with Christians drinking alcohol in moderation. While drunkenness is censured, a leisurely drink is not, since wine “gladdens” the heart (Ps 104.15) and it is good for the stomach (1 Tim 5.23). In fact, I’m drinking a glass of Pinot as I write this blog post. So here I am a “stronger” brother who exercises his Christian freedom by enjoying a glass of wine or a beer. Though I try to use my conviction in this area not to offend those who do not share my views on this matter (but I won’t allow myself to be bullied on the issue either, see Rom 14.16).

But in other areas I’m a weaker brother. For instance, many of my American Christian friends, who are quite conservative both morally and theologically, often go to Halloween parties. Now my view is that it’s a stupid pagan festival, full of the macabre, glorifying all things dark, making light of witchcraft, and not good for your teeth or waistline either.  I’m not saying let’s burn our Harry Potter novels (I liked the movies), but I couldn’t bring myself to go to a Halloween party dressed as Dracula, Death, or even a Democrat Senator (all three can be scary). Yet I know that it’s just a party, it’s just a costume, no one is worshipping the undead, but it’s just the vibe of the whole thing. Would Jesus go to a Halloween party? I couldn’t in conscience go. My conscience is more easily offended here, so on this issue I’m the weaker brother. But I recognize the freedom of others on this matter even if I don’t agree with it.

What matters, whether we are weak or strong on any given issue is this: pursuing the things that make for peace and mutual encouragement (Rom 14.19).