Happy Friday everyone! But uh oh, it is also September 13th... Friday the 13th is a day that, for many, evokes a sense of superstition and unease. Rooted in folklore and popular culture, this day has become synonymous with bad luck, with countless movies, books, and stories reinforcing its reputation. But for Christians, how should we view Friday the 13th? Should we be concerned about the supposed bad luck it brings, or is there a deeper, biblical truth that offers a counter-narrative to this fear?
The Origins of Friday the 13th Superstition
The fear surrounding Friday the 13th is largely rooted in Western superstition. The number 13 has long been considered unlucky in many cultures, possibly because it follows the more "complete" number 12 (12 months in a year, 12 zodiac signs, 12 tribes of Israel, etc.). Friday, in turn, has been associated with misfortune, especially in Christian tradition, as it is believed to be the day Jesus was crucified.
These two elements—Friday and the number 13—combined into one day have, over time, given rise to a belief that this day is particularly cursed. However, when we dig deeper into Scripture, we find that such beliefs are not only unfounded but also contradict the biblical worldview.
Superstition and the Christian Faith
The Bible speaks clearly about how believers should approach superstitions, omens, and other fear-based beliefs. In Deuteronomy 18:10-12, God warns His people not to practice divination, sorcery, or interpret omens, for these are detestable to Him. Superstitions are, at their core, an attempt to predict or control the future, often based on irrational fears.
As Christians, we are called to trust in God's sovereignty, not in signs, omens, or so-called "bad luck." Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight." This is a profound reminder that our lives are in God's hands, not subject to random or mystical forces.
God’s Sovereignty Over All Things
The key theological issue with beliefs like those surrounding Friday the 13th is that they undermine the sovereignty of God. The Bible teaches that God is in control of all things—both good and bad. Psalm 115:3 declares, "Our God is in the heavens; He does all that He pleases." Nothing happens outside of His will, and He works all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).
The idea that a particular day or number can bring bad luck reduces our trust in God's providence. It suggests that our fate can be altered by forces beyond God’s control, which contradicts the biblical understanding of His omnipotence.
Fear vs. Faith
Many people live in fear of days like Friday the 13th, but fear is not a posture that Christians are called to adopt. 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." Fear is a tool of the enemy, one that can distract us from the truth of God’s care and control over our lives.
In contrast, faith is the antidote to fear. By putting our trust in God, we are freed from the anxiety that superstition brings. We know that our future is not determined by numbers, days, or omens, but by a loving God who holds the universe in His hands.
Redeeming Friday the 13th: An Evangelism Opportunity
Rather than succumbing to the fear and superstition of Friday the 13th, Christians have a unique opportunity to use this day as a platform for sharing the gospel. The widespread superstition offers a natural starting point for conversations about deeper spiritual truths.
Many people in our culture remain fascinated by superstitions. Some might not take it seriously, but there are others who live in genuine fear of days like Friday the 13th. In this fear, there is an opportunity to point people to the peace that only comes from knowing Christ.
Here are some ways Friday the 13th can be used for evangelism:
Addressing Fear of the Unknown
Superstition is often driven by fear of the unknown. This is a great opportunity to share the gospel. The Bible teaches that without Christ, the future can feel uncertain and frightening. But Christians know their future is secure in God’s hands. By sharing Jesus’ words from John 14:6, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life,” we can offer peace and certainty to those in fear.
Discussion on Sovereignty vs. Chance
We can talk about the difference between superstition and trusting in God’s control. While the world may believe in luck or randomness, the Bible tells us that God is in charge of everything. Romans 8:28 reminds us that God works all things for good for those who love Him. Sharing this truth can encourage people to place their trust in God rather than in fear or superstition.
Offering Freedom from Fear
Many people cling to superstitions because they want control over their lives. But Jesus offers freedom from fear. Romans 8:15 says that believers are no longer slaves to fear because they are children of God. We can use Friday the 13th to point people to the freedom and peace found in Christ, who breaks the power of fear and superstition.
Conclusion
Friday the 13th may carry with it a long history of superstition, but for Christians, it is just another day—a day that God has made (Psalm 118:24). We are called not to fear or buy into the myths surrounding it, but to trust in the sovereignty of our Creator, who orders our steps according to His perfect will.
Rather than succumbing to fear, let us embrace the truth of God’s Word, which calls us to live boldly in faith, knowing that nothing can separate us from His love (Romans 8:38-39). Friday the 13th is not a day to dread, but a day like any other to glorify God and trust in His unfailing goodness.
