“Hold fast the word.” This statement, or one similar to it, is found several times in the New Testament. The “word” to which we are to “hold fast” is the word of God. But why are we to hold fast to it? We can answer that question by examining the passages that contain this admonition. There are several reasons why we must continue to “hold fast the word.” Let us notice the reasons presented to us in the Scriptures.
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Hold Fast the Word
Halloween
[This article was written by Bryan Matthew Dockens.]
Halloween originated as “All Hallows’ Eve,” the night prior to “All Hallows’ Day,” that is “All Saints’ Day” on which Catholics honor their pantheon of so-called “saints.” Neither Halloween nor All Saints Day has any basis in scripture. Each is the invention of the Catholic Church, amounting to the traditions of men, rather than the commandments of God (Matthew 15:1-9).
The Pope designated the first of November All Saints’ Day to co-opt the existing Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced “sow-en”). Meaning “Summer’s End,” Samhain was a harvest festival, but more than that, it was also a festival of the dead. As summer turned to winter, the holiday represented a time of transition when spirits from beyond the grave could pass through. Deceased ancestors were honored while harmful spirits were warded off by frightening disguises.
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