In the world of drugs and alcohol, we have a lot of “folk theology” going on. Folk theology is something that is not really true and has been handed down to us from others or something we hear so much we start believing it as fact. “Adam and Eve ate of the apple” is an example of folk theology. The scriptures say nothing about an apple, but we hear it so much it becomes a part of our theology. Such is the case with our belief on addictions.
The AMA declared alcohol addiction a disease in 1956 for the purpose of hospitals and insurance. It had nothing to do with scientific study. The 12 step program operates on the “disease” model. Though unproven, many also believe addiction is a genetic disorder.
Especially for Christians, when our Sunday theology does not match our Monday through Saturday belief about addiction, there is a problem.
God makes it clear that addiction is a sin problem.
In Deuteronomy 21:18-21 God imposed the death penalty for drunkards as well as for the accompanying lifestyle. These were criminal offenses punishable by death. Think God would impose a death sentence for someone with a disease? That verse also deals with the belief that addiction is a genetic problem. No, it’s personal choice. Galatians 5:19-21 and Romans 13:13 tell us that addiction is a sin problem. There is also no talk of Jesus ever healing someone of their alcohol/drug “disease” in the Bible. But He sure had a few things to say about the sin of drunkenness!
Is not public intoxication and driving under the influence a crime punishable by jail and/or a fine? When someone gets arrested for DUI or PI are they put in a jail or a hospital?
It is a problem when we teach addiction as a disease model. It’s a problem because we are taking accountability away from the individual and laying it on something else. It is a problem when we send addicts to programs and groups that teach: “We are not responsible for our disease, but we are responsible for our recovery.” Really!? My addiction was not a disease, it was a choice I made. And then another choice, and after making that choice so long at some point I no longer had a choice. Disease can be the result of long-term addiction, but it is not the cause.
We are all born with the sin nature from Adam (Rom. 3:23, 5:12). And the wages of sin is death. But the FREE gift of God is eternal life in Jesus Christ our Lord. Rom. 6:23).
John 8:32 says: “You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free.” The truth is Jesus Christ, and if the Son sets you free, you are free indeed. John 8:36 says, “If the Son sets you free, you are free indeed.”
So, the bad news is that addiction is a sin problem. The Good news is that God sent a solution for sin in Jesus Christ. If we see addiction as a disease, then there is no hope for us. But when we see it as what it is: a sin problem, then there is hope! Are you ready to be set free today? Jer. 33:3!
Last Update: May 07, 2017 7:08 am CDT
