Q&A: Ephesians 5:11 ('unfruitful works of darkness') refers to common sins, not specifically to Halloween or occult rituals

Mike walks through the context of Ephesians 5. The 'unfruitful works of darkness' that Paul lists in the surrounding verses are sexual immorality, impurity, covetousness (idolatry), filthiness, foolish talk, and crude joking — ordinary sins, not specifically occult or ritualistic behaviors. These are what Paul says bring the wrath of God. Mike concludes the passage applies secondarily to satanic rituals but does not specifically condemn trick-or-treating. The 'trick' in trick-or-treat has become a meaningless phrase; no one is actually tricking anyone.