Workshop Facilitator: Pastor Bob Vann

A Biblical Cognitive Approach to Understanding & Addressing Addiction &Relapse Prevention

Email: asbpm@bellsouth.net© 770-315-1395Website: www.asbpm.org

Georgia School of Addiction

Unleashing the Power:Prevention, Treatment, And Recovery

Hebrews 4:12-13

12 For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. 13 Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. NIV

Understanding The Problem: Spiritual Disorder

Laying TheFoundatio

n

UNDERSTANDING THE COMPOSITION OF MAN BEFORE HIS FALL: SPIRITUAL ORDER (Adam Had No Problems)

MindWill

Emotions

Man’s Spirit

Master

Pure Heart

Center of Activity

SoulServan

t

Purpose

Acceptance

Security

Significance

Love

All of Adam’s physical needs were being met through Adam’s soul

 

The Body

The Inner Man

All of Adam’s spiritual needs being met by God. His greatest need was to be loved.

The Outer Man (soul)

All of Adam’s soulish needs; mental, emotional, volitional (will) were being met by Adam’s spirit.

UNDERSTANDING THE COMPOSITION OF MAN FOLLOWING THE FALL: SPIRITUAL DISORDER, THE ORIGIN OF MAN’S PROBLEMS

Carnal Mind

Will

Negative Emotions

Hardened Heart

Center of Activity

Lust of Eye

Guilt

Shame

Fear

All of Adam’s physical needs were being met through Adam’s soul

 

The Body

The Inner Man

All of Adam’s spiritual needs being met by God. His greatest need was to be loved.

The Outer Man (soul)

All of Adam’s soulish needs; mental, emotional, volitional (will) were being met by Adam’s spirit.

Man’s Spirit

(Master)servant

Soul(Servant Master)

Female subject to

Male

Pride of Life

Lust of Flesh

Rejection

Projection &Blame

Pain/SorrowChild bearingAnger

UNDERSTANDING HOW CHRIST RESTORES SPIRITUAL ORDER:PROVIDING A SOLUTION TO ALL MAN’S PROBLEMS

Mental Stronghol

d

Will

Negative Emotions

New Heart

Center of Activity

Guilt ShameFear

All of Adam’s physical needs were being met through his restored soul

 

The Body

The Inner ManAll of

mankind’s spiritual needs being met by God (a developmental issue; babe in Christ, recreated) 2 Co. 5:17

The Outer Man (soul)

Soul has been taught to live independent of his spirit & God. A restoration issue (Js. 1:21).

Man’s

SoulServant Prid

e Rejection

Projection &Blame

Self-Pity Lonelines

s

People Pleasing

Street Mentality

Low Self Esteem

Sex immoralityPrison

MentalityUn-

forgiveness

Awfulizing Christianity & Sobriety

Anger

Holy Spirit

Spirit/Master

The indwelling of the Holy Spirit (Jn.

14:17)New

Heart

1 Peter 1:23 

23You have been regenerated (born again), not from a mortal (corruptible seed), origin (seed, sperm), but from one that is immortal by the ever living and lasting Word of God.

Salvation is the only way that spiritual order can be restored and with salvation God provides a solution to the origin of all problems, a new identity in Christ restoring a relationship with Him. With spiritual order is restored; however their remains two major issues; a developmental issue due to spiritual immaturity. The spirit strives to maintain the authority of God; however, the spirit is only a “babe” at birth and must be developed. And a restoration issue due to a soul that has been polluted by the flesh and trained to live independent of God and developed its own wisdom and power being educated by the world and strives to maintain its own independence (authority). The soul must be taught to cooperate and submit to the spirit. The word of God is key to overcoming both the developmental issue of the human spirit and restoration of the soul.

Spiritual Order RestoredSpiritual Order Restored

Spiritual Developmen

t & Restoration of the Soul

The Ministry of the Holy

Spirit

The Ministry of theWord

The Ministry of the Body of Christ

(Church)

God’s Threefold Provision for Restoration

 1 Corinthians 3:10-12 

 10According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.  11For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;

“In the economy of our salvation, the applying and effecting part is especially

attributed to the Holy Spirit. We are said to be born of the Spirit, to beQuickened and sanctified by the Spirit, to be led and guided strengthened and helped, by the Spirit. Through him we mortify sin, perform duty, walk in God’s ways; all the acts and operations of the divine life in us, the works and fruits of righteousness without us, all are through this blessed and Holy Spirit, who is therefore called the Spirit of life, and of grace and holiness; all grace is from him. Earnestly therefore is he to be sought and greatly to be heeded by us, that we quench not his holy motions, nor resist and oppose him in his workings.”

The Ministry of the Holy Spirit: Divine Assistance

The Ministry of the Holy Spirit: Divine Assistance

The Ministry of the Holy

Spirit

HE GIVES FRUIT & GRACE

(He. 10:29, Ga. 5:22)

HE’S THE TEACHES

(Jn. 14:26)

HE’S CONVICTS & COMFORTS (Jn. 16: 8, 14: 16)

HE MORTIFIES THE FLESH

(RO. 8:13)

HE GIVES GIFTS

(1 Co. 12:8-13)

HE PERFORMS THE WORD

(JER. 1:12, EPH. 6:17)

HE’S A SPIRITUAL

GUIDE(JN. 16:13)

HE PROVIDES ALL SPIRITUAL

GROWTH (2 CO. 3:18)

HE SAVESRegeneration

(Titus 3:5) 

HE’S IN CHARGE OF

ALL MINISTRY (1 Co.3:7)

Understanding The Role & Function Of the Holy Spirit

CULTIVATING THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT: A WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

SpirituallyMinded Will

Emotional Maturity

New Heart

Center of Activity

JoyPeace

All physical needs were being met by God (Matt. 6:33)

 

The Body

The Inner ManQuickened

(Regenerated)Titus 3:5, Spiritual development: maturing-no longer a “babe” (2 Co. 5:17)

The Outer Man

Man’s soul is being restored to its original position as servant, learning not to operate independent of his spirit.

Man’s

SoulServant

Faith

Submission

Patience Gentlenes

s

Temperance

Kindness

1 Th. 5:23-24

Mind of ChristDecisions

based on the word of God

1 Pet. 1:22-23

Holy Spirit

Spirit/Master

The indwelling of the Holy Spirit (Jn.

14:17)

New Heart

Humility

Js. 1:2

Ro.12: 1-2

Love Ro. 5:5

The Word of God Alive &

Powerful (He. 4:12)

Regenerates is everlasting,

Initiates the new birth

(1Pe. 1:23)

Restoration of the Soul

(James 1:21-22)

Is spirit & life nourishment for

the spirit (Jn. 6:63)

Gives discernment &

comprehesion to the simple(Ps. 119:130)

Purifies the soul

(1Pe. 1:22)

Sanctifies/Heals (Jn. 17:17-19)

Key factor in developing Faith

(Ro. 10:17)

Divides soul, spirit, Judges thoughts & intents of heart

(He. 4:12)

Is a lamp to our feet and a light to

our path (Psalm 119:104-106)

Profitable for instruction,

reproof, correction (2 Ti. 3:16)

Understanding The Role & Function Of the Word of God

Understanding The Role & Function Of the Body of Christ

In an essay "Strong Mentoring Relationships," in the Seven Promises of a Promise Keeper, Glen Wagner clearly states, "in strong mentoring relationships we obey what God commands us to do within the Body of Christ. All issues of spiritual growth and maturity are framed in the context of relationships." This concept is clearly expressed in the many "one another" passages of the New Testament.  

In an essay "Strong Mentoring Relationships," in the Seven Promises of a Promise Keeper, Glen Wagner clearly states, "in strong mentoring relationships we obey what God commands us to do within the Body of Christ. All issues of spiritual growth and maturity are framed in the context of relationships." This concept is clearly expressed in the many "one another" passages of the New Testament.  

Koinonia(Fellowship)

Love One Another(John 13:34)

Forgive One

Another(Eph. 4:32)

Accept One

Another(Ro. 15:7)

Submit to One

Another(Eph. 5:21)

Honor One

Another(Ro. 12:10))

Encourage One Another

(He. 10:24-25)

Serve One Another(Gal. 5:13)

The Ministry of the Body of Christ (Local Church)

FOUR BASIC OBJECTIVES OF THE CHURCH

Evangelizing the lost

Maturing the Saints

Training the

mature

Sending the

trained

Truth – Cause Foundation - Receiving the

Word, attending local church-

sermons, Bible studies

(Rom. 10:17, Eph. 4:11-12)

Faith- ProcessDiscipline

(training) of the Holy Spirit, test,

trials, temptations and

relationships within the Body

of Christ(1 Pet. 1:6, Heb. 12: 5-

11)

Experience – Effect

(Results)

Learning to Walk in the

Spirit, Experiencing the Fruit of the Spirit

(Gal. 5:22)

THREE STAGES OF SPIRITUAL PROGRESS: TRUTH, FAITH AND EXPERIENCE

Old Nature “Works of the

Flesh,” witchcraft

(Gal. 5:24, 5:20)

“Sowing to the Flesh ”Divine

Law of Sowing & Reaping (Gal. 6: 7-10)

Spiritual Warfare

Infirmities & Generational

Curses (Ex. 20:5, Ro. 6:18-

19)

Footholds (Eph. 4:26-27)

& Strongholds (2 Co. 10:3-5)

Addiction Leading to Bondage of

the Soul (Eph. 2:2-3)

BIBLICAL MODEL OF ADDICTION

A BIBLICAL DEFINITION OF ADDICTION

An addiction is an effect of a sinful condition originating in an individual’s heart due to their old nature activated by

Sowing to the flesh (Divine Law of Sowing & Reaping). Addiction manifests

itself within an individual’s soul in the form of a stronghold.

Following conversion when God crucifies the old nature the “works of the flesh” remains within the soul

and must be put to death by the Holy Spirit.

The heart is where addiction has its origin. Every human being is born with the “seeds of addiction” in their heart and you were no exception. So, addiction is a spiritual issue that can only be addressed by the “new birth.” When you made a decision to use (sin) drugs/alcohol you began “sowing to the flesh,” you began cultivating the seeds of addiction in your heart. Two factors came in to play that determined the intensity of your use, you could have been under the influence of a generational curse and/or have had an infirmity (weakness) for drugs/alcohol. Regardless why you began using drugs/alcohol once you began the enemy (demonic forces) gained a foothold (abuse) in your soul (mind, will, emotions) that eventually resulted in a stronghold leading you into bondage to addiction to drugs/alcohol.

Where Does Addiction Have Its Origin? Where Does Addiction Have Its Origin?

My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh. Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.

-- Proverbs 4:20-23

The Origin of Addiction: The HeartThe Origin of Addiction: The Heart

“Are you so dull?” he asked. “Don’t you see that nothing that enters a man from the outside can make him ‘unclean’? For it doesn’t go into his heart but into his stomach, and then out of his body.” He went on: “What comes out of a man is what makes him ‘unclean.’ For from within, out of men’s hearts, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. All these evils come from inside and make a man ‘unclean.

-- Mark 7:18-23 (NIV)

What Does Jesus Say About the Heart?What Does Jesus Say About the Heart?

God’s plan of salvation provided you with the only solution for both the origin and the effects (desires, passions, cravings) of your addiction (sin) that remain following your “new birth.” God handled the “root cause” of addiction and requires that you cooperate with the Holy Spirit to prevent you from returning to “sowing to the flesh,” (relapsing) by experiencing victory over the effects of addiction (trigger, cravings, and set-up behaviors).

Where Does Addiction Have Its Origin? Where Does Addiction Have Its Origin?

Phase 1Biblical

perspective of Addiction &

Relapse Prevention

(Rom. 12:2, Eph. 4:23)

Phase 2 Fellowship with God Love, Faith,

Obedience(1 Jn. 5: 1-5, 1:3)

Phase 3 Identity in Christ

(Understanding of & Faith in their

Position in Christ)(2 Cor. 5:17, Ez. 36:226-27)

Phase 4 Character

Developmentby Relational

Knowledge of God “Sowing to the

Spirit” (2 Pet. 1:2, 5-7)

Phase 5RestorationOvercoming

the Effects of Addiction

(Ro. 8: 11-13)

Biblical Model of Relapse Prevention

What Does It Mean to Relapse?What Does It Mean to Relapse?

Relapse from a biblical view simply means a person has become involved in the process of returning to

practicing the “works of the flesh,” those old behaviors and attitudes that were common

practices prior to their salvation. The end result being that they

return to their “besetting sin” of using drugs/

alcohol.

Past Aspect of Holiness Present Aspect of Holiness

Future Aspect of Holiness

POSITIONAL. All believers have been set aside and made holy for God’s service as saints, regardless of age, or spiritual growth (1Cor 1:2,30)

PROGRESSIVE. Depends upon our knowledge of and faith in our position in Christ (Ro. 6:11), Changing Position into experience.

FINAL. When you see the Lord and are made like Him sinless, without illness, deathless (1 Cor. 4;15:54; 1 Jn 3:2)

Your position is final, unchangeable, inseparable from your right relational standing, and the result solely of our union with Christ.

Progressive, changeable, depends upon submitting to God’s will (Ro. 6:13) and conforming to God’s Word (Ro. 12:2).

ETERNAL. Will result in your final state in eternity (Phil 3:21).

As God sees you in Christ (1Co. 1:2,30, with Phil 1:1 etc.)

As you are in your conduct (2 Thess 2:13)

As you shall be in glory (Ro. 8:29, 1 Co. 15:49). Unger Bible Book (modified)

Exercise: Positional Holiness Exercise: Positional Holiness

SalvationSpiritual Change &

Deliverance(Ro. 10: 9-10)

Positional HolinessChange in Position

(1Cor 1:2, 30, 2Thess.

Recreated, New Identity, New

creature in Christ(2Co.5: 17)

Relational ChangeAcquitted/Justified

Titus 3:4-7

Progressive Holiness Soul being restored

(Ja. 1:21)

Christ-Like Character

DevelopmentGal. 5:22-24)

Walking in Spirit(Conformed Change in Conduct)

2 Th. 2:13

Understanding Salvation: God’s Plan for Change

Salvation provides a believer with every spiritual resource they need to keep from returning to “sowing to the flesh,” relapse prevention.” Being transformed by the “renewing of the mind” is the foundation on which the Biblical Cognitive Relapse Prevention Model is based. “Renewing the mind” must be progressive throughout each of the phases of the model. Phase 1, provides the believer with God’s perspective of addiction and then introduces them to His solution. Phase 2 is a very crucial phase where believers learn how to cultivate their relationship with God. Phase 3, understanding their identity in Christ is vital for believers learning to view themselves as God sees them. This phase is key in them accepting their rightful places in the “Body of Christ,” being comfortable in local churches. Phase 4 is key in developing the much needed “self-control” and other Christ-like characteristics to overcome the effects of their addiction. Phase 5 is a lifelong process that focuses on cooperating with the Holy Spirit as He identifies the areas in the flesh (cravings, appetites, set-up behaviors) that need to be addressed in order to “put to death the flesh.” Believers need intensive mentoring/discipleship early in their restoration or they will quickly return to their old lifestyle and former friends.

Understanding Salvation: God’s Plan for ChangeUnderstanding Salvation: God’s Plan for Change

POSITIONAL HOLINESS Change in

Position, right relational

standing with God

(1Cor 1:2, 30, 2Thess.)

As God Sees You

washed in the Blood of Jesus Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit

Recreated, New Identity,

New creature in Christ (2 Cor. 5: 17)

Relational Change

Acquitted Justified Titus 3:4-7

Positional Holiness: How Were You Made Holy?

You must clearly understand that salvation is the beginning of your growth process and that you received the minimum amount of spiritual growth at the moment of your conversion. With your conversion there is a great potential for spiritual growth to be changed into the image and likeness of Christ. You must understand that the Ultimate Source of Change is the Holy Spirit, and the Word of God. God also uses the “Body of Christ,” (believers in local churches) the human element of change.

Salvation Provides the Solution Salvation Provides the Solution

Progressive Holiness

(1) Works of the flesh mortified by Holy Spirit (Rom.

8:13, Col.3:5)(2) Soul transformed by the renewing of the mind (Rom. 8:11-

13)

Holy Spirit Guidance

&Teaching By God’s Word

& Body of Christ Pastors,

Ministers, Christian

Counselors, Mentors

Christ-Like Character

Development(Ga.5:22-24)

Walking in Spirit

(Conformed Change in Conduct) 2 Th. 2:13

Spiritual Maturity & Restoring the Soul

Sanctification means to be made holy, separated unto God for His service, it is an activity of the Holy Spirit setting you apart unto God for salvation and also enabling you to be holy, as God is holy. God Himself has spiritually transformed you and this was the first phase of change in your life. Now you must advance in your Christian walk with Christ through the grace provided by the Holy Spirit into the second phase of change. Holiness in your conduct and character is the key to overcoming the effects of your addiction as a result of your cooperation with the Holy Spirit. Your role was passive in regards to your position of holiness; however you are required by God to play an active role in progressive holiness.

SPIRITUAL GROWTH & RESTORATION OF THE SOUL: THE KEYS TO MAKING THE TRANSITION INTO YOUR NEW

IDENTITY (PHASE 2)

Ron Rhodes states in his article, “Recovering from the Recovery Movement,” in the Christian Research Journal, regarding how pastors of local churches should be the primary counselors for individuals in restoration from addiction. Yes, pastors should play an intricate role in the restoration process of every believer. However, I personally do not believe every pastor is equipped to do so due to a lack of biblical insight into the bondage of addiction. Ron Rhodes clearly describes what major counseling components are necessary for “biblical restoration” from addiction to alcohol and other drugs.

“Such biblical counseling should include: An emphasis on the importance of becoming biblically literate. Biblical doctrine enables us to develop a realistic view, without which we are doomed to ineffectual living (Matt. 22:23-33; Rom. 12:3; 2 Tim. 4:3-4). Moreover, doctrine can protect us from false beliefs that can lead to destructive behavior (1 Tim. 4:1-6; 2 Tim. 2:18; Tit. 1:11).

Recovering from the Recovery Movement!Recovering from the Recovery Movement!

An emphasis on what the Bible says about the nature of man-including his soul (1 Pet. 2:11), his spirit (Ro. 8:16), his heart (He. 4:12), his conscience (1 Pet. 2:19), his mind (Ro. 12:2), as well as his sin nature and its effects (2 Cor. 4:4; Eph. 4:18; Ro. 1:18-3:20).

 A thorough understanding of man’s sin nature is especially important. Too often, recovery experts speak of getting rid of “character defects” in the patient. However, the whole “old” self is defective or depraved (2 Cor. 4:4; Eph. 4:18; Ro. 1:18-3:20) and must go. As one critic put it, we do not need a tune-up in our lives. We need a brand new engine.

Recovering from the Recovery Movement!Recovering from the Recovery Movement!

An emphasis on the threefold enemy of the Christian- (1) the world (including the things of the world, which are expressions of “cravings of the sinful man, the lust of his eyes, the boasting of what he has and does,” 1 John 2:16); (2) the flesh (the sinful nature itself, which is bent on sexual immorality, impurity, witchcraft, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, and envy, and drunkenness, Gal. 5:20-21); and (3) the Devil (who seeks to tempt us [(1 Cor. 7:5], deceive us [2 Cor. 11:14)], afflict us [(2 Cor. 12:7)], and hinder us [1Thess. 2:18)]. All three of these “enemies” have some bearing on human behavior.An emphasis on dependence upon the Holy Spirit: Scripture tells us that self-control is the fruit of the Holy Spirit (Gal. 5:22). As we “walk” in the spirit (habitually depend upon the Spirit) (v. 25), such fruit will inevitably grow in our lives.

Recovering from the Recovery Movement!Recovering from the Recovery Movement!

An emphasis on the threefold enemy of the Christian- (1) the world (including the things of the world, which are expressions of “cravings of the sinful man, the lust of his eyes, the boasting of what he has and does,” 1 John 2:16); (2) the flesh (the sinful nature itself, which is bent on sexual immorality, impurity, witchcraft, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, and envy, and drunkenness, Gal. 5:20-21); and (3) the Devil (who seeks to tempt us [(1 Cor. 7:5], deceive us [2 Cor. 11:14)], afflict us [(2 Cor. 12:7)], and hinder us [1Thess. 2:18)]. All three of these “enemies” have some bearing on human behavior.An emphasis on dependence upon the Holy Spirit: Scripture tells us that self-control is the fruit of the Holy Spirit (Gal. 5:22). As we “walk” in the spirit (habitually depend upon the Spirit) (v. 25), such fruit will inevitably grow in our lives.

Recovering from the Recovery Movement!Recovering from the Recovery Movement!

An emphasis on the sufficiency of God’s grace in the midst of trying circumstances: (2 Co. 12:9-10). As the Apostle Paul discovered, God’s grace enables us to cope with difficulties that can be overwhelming when approached through human strength alone.

 An emphasis on the role faith plays in the midst of trying circumstances: (Heb. 11). Scripture says that without faith it is impossible to please God v. 6). It is also true that without faith in God it is impossible to effectively deal with behavioral problems and live victorious Christian lives (cf. Acts 15:9; 1 Thess. 5:8)

Recovering from the Recovery Movement!Recovering from the Recovery Movement!

Biblical RehabilitationBiblical Rehabilitation

“ Rehabilitation means the putting back of the whole human race into the relationship God designed it to be in, and this is what Jesus Christ did in Redemption. ”

-- Oswald Chambers

Most individuals who have been in bondage to addiction have tried to avoid relapsing in the past. They probably made several unsuccessful attempts at "self-rehabilitation," making a decision to quite using drugs/alcohol through abstinence by their own effort, determination or will-power without any assistance from God or others, which is not freedom from addiction. "Self-rehabilitation," is the least successful form of change because it doesn't include God or support from others.

Understanding the World’s Way of Change: Self RehabilitationUnderstanding the World’s Way of Change: Self Rehabilitation

“When an evil spirit comes out of a man, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.’ When it arrives, it finds the house swept clean and put in order. Then it goes and takes seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that man is worse than the first.”-- Luke 11:24-26The NIV Study Bible, states, “the place has been cleaned up but left unoccupied. A life reformed but lacking God’s presence is open to re-occupancy by evil.”

“When an evil spirit comes out of a man, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.’ When it arrives, it finds the house swept clean and put in order. Then it goes and takes seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that man is worse than the first.”-- Luke 11:24-26The NIV Study Bible, states, “the place has been cleaned up but left unoccupied. A life reformed but lacking God’s presence is open to re-occupancy by evil.”

Many may have also been involved in some form of "therapeutic change" involving treatment programs with counseling, and possibly a Twelve-Step Recovery program with support groups or a combination of the two. "Therapeutic change," differs from "self-rehabilitation" in that it does relay on the support of others "self-rehabilitation" however; its goal is also abstinence through by your own effort, determination or will-power but with assistance from others. Like "self-rehabilitation," "therapeutic change" is not true freedom from addiction.

Both "therapeutic change" and "self-rehabilitation" are similar in that they do nothing to change an individual's relationship with God, therefore a non-believers involved in either of these two forms of change are missing the most important factor in change, a relationship with God (salvation through Jesus Christ). "Divine assistance" is missing in both these forms of change therefore "spiritual change" through being born again is far superior to both "therapeutic change" and "self-rehabilitation" because it addresses the “root cause” or origin of the addiction, sin.

Understanding the World’s Way of Change: Therapeutic ChangeUnderstanding the World’s Way of Change: Therapeutic Change

21Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive withmeekness the engrafted word, which is able to save (restore) your souls (Jas. 1:21)

“Edward M. Smith, sums up the major differences between God's plan and man's plan for addressing addictive behavior in his text, Healing Life's Hurts, "It is not based on my effort, determination or willpower but is a natural overflow of His work in me. This does not negate obedience, repentance, discipline, or effort on the part of the believer but rather puts all of these practices in a divine perspective………… Self -control that is provided and maintained as a by-product of the fruit of the Holy Spirit (Gal. 5:23) is different from controlled behavior that is a fruit of man's effort. When I know the truth and reside in the peace that Christ gives, my "self" is under control as a work of God in me…………Controlled behavior is better than sinful choices, but self-control provided by the Holy Spirit is best."

Temperance (Self-Control)Temperance (Self-Control)

Understanding The Difference Between Spiritual Transformation and Therapeutic Change & Self Rehabilitation

Understanding The Difference Between Spiritual Transformation and Therapeutic Change & Self Rehabilitation

Mental Stronghol

d

Will

Negative Emotions

New Heart

Center of Activity

Guilt ShameFear

Spiritual Transformatio

nSalvation

(Regeneration-

New Identity)

Self-Rehabilitation

(Sin Management-

Arresting Addiction)

Man’s

SoulServant Prid

e Rejection

Projection &Blame

Self-Pity Lonelines

s

People Pleasing

Street Mentality

Low Self Esteem

Sex immoralityPrison

Mentality Un-forgiveness

Awfulizing Christianity & Sobriety

Anger

Holy Spirit

Spirit/Master

The Inner Man (spirit)

New Heart

The Outer Man (soul)

Restoration of the soul (character development)

The Outer Man (soul)

The Outer Man (soul)Therapeutic Change

Behavioral Modification

Viewing the above diagram you can clearly see that both Therapeutic Change and Self-Rehabilitation are limited focusing exclusively on the condition of the outer man (soul-mind, will, emotions). The most these two forms of change can provide is behavioral modification, and sin management arresting addiction. Spiritual transformation not only transforms man’s spiritual state of being but changes his heart and provides the potential/power for restoration of his soul. Spiritual Transformation addresses the origin of addiction: the old heart/nature and the effects of addiction in the soul providing the only solution to problem addiction.  

Spiritual Transformation Versus Therapeutic Change & Self Rehabilitation

A CONTRASTING OVERVIEW OF RECOVERY VS. SPIRITUAL CHANGE/RESTORATION (Small Group Exercise 15 minutes)

A CONTRASTING OVERVIEW OF RECOVERY VS. SPIRITUAL CHANGE/RESTORATION (Small Group Exercise 15 minutes)

Review the above chart, A CONTRASTING OVERVIEW OF RECOVERY VS. SPIRITUAL CHANGE/RESTORATION and answer the following questions: 1. What is the difference between therapeutic change and self-

rehabilitation?

2. How are therapeutic change and self- rehabilitation similar?

3. What makes spiritual change more effective than both therapeutic change and self- rehabilitation?

4. What key element is missing from both therapeutic change and self-rehabilitation? Which form of change is least successful?

“During the years you spent separated from God, your worldly experiences thoroughly programmed your brain with thought patterns, memory traces, responses and habits which are alien to God. So even though your old skipper (nature) is gone, your flesh remains in opposition to God as a preprogrammed propensity for sin, which is living independent of God.” ``

Neil Anderson

The Flesh A Significant Factor in AddictionThe Flesh A Significant Factor in Addiction

The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this (continually/habitually practice) will not inherit the kingdom of God.

-- Galatians 5:19-21 (NIV)

Works of the FleshWorks of the Flesh

In regards to witchcraft Mark I. Bubeck in his text, The Adversary, makes the following statement regarding the use alcohol and other drugs. “The use of drugs for sensational, mind-expanding experience is a form of sorcery. Drug experimentation is a fleshly sin which leads on into deeper bondage with Satan’s kingdom.” The Greek interpretation for the work of witchcraft cited in this passage is pharmakeus, and is defined as the use or the administering of drugs, one who prepares or uses magical remedies derived from pharmakon, a drug, from which we receive the term pharmacy.

WitchcraftWitchcraft

Dr. John MacArthur, in his text, The New Testament Commentary Galatians, makes the following statement regarding the “work of the flesh,” known as witchcraft or sorcery.

“Sorcery translates pharmakeia, from which we get pharmacy and pharmaceutical. It was originally used of medicines in general but came to be used primarily of mood-and mind-altering drugs similar to those that create so much havoc in our own day. Many ancient religious ceremonies involved occultic practices in which drugs were used to induce supposed communications with deities and pharmakeia thereby came to be closely related to witchcraft and black magic. Aristotle and other Greek writers used the word as a synonym for witchcraft and black magic, because drugs were so commonly used in their practice.”

WitchcraftWitchcraft

The Works of the FleshThe Works of the Flesh

Sexual Sin(Defilement of

the human body)

Sexual Immorality

Worship of man made things (selling & using of mood & mind altering

Drugs

Defilement of Human Relationships (hindering

fulfillment of the 2nd greatest commandment)

Impurity

Witchcraft

Discord

Jealousy

Fits of Rage

Selfish Ambitions

Envy Hatred

Debauchery

Idolatry

Orgies

Murders KJV

Drunkenness

Factions Dissension

CHARITY (Unconditional

Love)

JOY (Right relational

standing with God)

PEACE(Harmony with God)

LONGSUFFERING(The ability to deal with difficult people)

GENTLENESS(Kindness)

FAITH(Belief in Action)

GOODNESS(Active good in Character)

MEEKNESS(Humility)

TEMPERANCE(Self-Control)

Fellowship with God:(Koinonia) “Sowing to the Spirit”Fruit of the Spirit

Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

-- Galatians 6:7-10

The Divine Law of Sowing & Reaping

Part 3

“The law of sowing and reaping is just as valid in the spiritual as in the physical and moral realms. The frustration and the hopelessness of humanistic psychology, psychiatry, and counseling can be traced, among other things, to their refusal to consider the immutable spiritual law of sowing and reaping. A person’s character cannot be changed until his nature is changed, and that can happen only through the new creation that comes from trust in Jesus Christ.”

-- John Mac Arthur Jr.

A Divine Law: Key to RestorationA Divine Law: Key to Restoration

The Divine Law of Sowing & ReapingThe Divine Law of Sowing & Reaping

  Dr. Richard S. Sandor in his article “the Disease Concept Revisited, in the Addiction Professional, June 2010 states the following:

 To start, scientific data can no more “prove” that addiction is a disease than it can “prove” that the sky is blue. Either we all agree that the color of the sky is sufficiently like everything else we call “blue,” or we agree to call it something else. In the same way, asserting that addiction is a disease cannot be proven by scientific data. A disease concept is really a theory of addiction—a way of showing that addiction is like all the other things we generally accept as diseases.

THE DISEASE CONCEPT

  Despite the preponderance of medical opinion that some drug and alcohol users have a disorder diminished capacity to choose freely whether or not to use a particular substance the moral models retain some vitality. In 1882, when the disease concept was first gaining momentum, the Reverend J. E. Todd wrote an essay entitled "Drunkenness a Vice, Not a Disease." In the late 1980s, the disease concept critics Fingarette and Peele put forth almost precisely the same thesis. Peele has argued that the disease concept absolves the individual from responsibility, runs counter to scientific facts, and is perpetuated for the benefit of the treatment industry. However, his thesis has been criticized for using the classic disease model as a "straw man" because it does not take into account the more recent adoption of the bio-psychosocial model.

 

THE DISEASE CONCEPT

 “Some physicians, scientists and others have rejected the disease theory of alcoholism on logical, empirical and other grounds. Some critics of the disease model argue alcoholism is a choice, not a disease, and stripping alcohol abusers of their choice, by applying the disease concept, is a threat to the health of the individual; the disease concept gives the substance abuser an excuse. A disease cannot be cured by force of will; therefore, adding the medical label transfers the responsibility from the abuser to caregivers. Inevitably the abusers become unwilling victims, and just as inevitably they take on that role. They argue that the disease theory of alcoholism exists only to benefit the professionals' and governmental agencies responsible for providing recovery services, and the disease model has not offered a solution for those attempting to stop abusive alcohol and drug use.” Baldwin Research Institute

 

THE DISEASE CONCEPT

  History and science have shown us that the existence of the disease of alcoholism is pure speculation. Just saying alcoholism is a disease, doesn't make it true. Nevertheless, medical professionals and American culture enthusiastically embraced the disease concept and quickly applied it to every possible behavior from alcohol abuse to compulsive lecturing and nail biting. The disease concept was a panacea (solution) for many failing medical institutions and pharmaceutical companies, adding billions of dollars to the industry and leading to a prompt evolution of pop-psychology. Research has shown that alcoholism is a choice, not a disease, and stripping alcohol abusers of their choice, by applying the disease concept, is a threat to the health of the individual. The disease concept oozes into every crevice of our society perpetuating harmful misinformation that hurts the very people it was intended to help. Remarkably, the assumptions of a few were accepted as fact by the medical profession, devoid of any scientific study or supporting evidence. And soon after, the disease concept was accepted by the general public.

Baldwin Research Institute

THE DISEASE CONCEPT

Understanding Two Contrasting Perspectives of Addiction/Relapse Prevention

Two Contrasting

Approaches to the Addiction

Problem

Perspective of Addiction

Biblical Cognitive Approach

Sin

Bible(living

Word of God)

World’s Recovery System

Therapy (Bio/Psycho/Social & 12

Steps)

Eternal Death

(Unbeliever)

HIGHER POWER (god of own

Understanding) ABSTINENCE BY WILL

POWERFellowshi

pAA, NA, CASpiritual

Immaturity

(Believer)

Mortify(Put to death)

Arrest(manage

)

Disease

SolutionsBody & Soul

Salvation (Spiritual

Transformation)

Body Soul & Spirit

Resources

Big Book, AA

literature

FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT

(GOD OF THE BIBLE)

SanctificationTemperanceFellowshi

pBody of

Christ (Christ centered groups)

Eternal Life

High Quality of Spiritual

Life

Results

“In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold (NIV).

-- Ephesians 4:26-27

Foothold: An Opportunity for the EnemyFoothold: An Opportunity for the Enemy

A foothold is established in an individual’s life when they give place to Satan by providing an opportunity for entry through sinning.

A foothold is established in an individual’s life when they give place to Satan by providing an opportunity for entry through sinning.

Stronghold: Satan’s Fortress in the Soul

2 Corinthians 10:3-5

3 For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. 4 The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought

to make it obedient to Christ (NIV). A stronghold is a negative pattern of thoughts, emotions, or attitudes’ leading to behaviors which has been burned into the soul either through repetition over time or through a one-time traumatic experience, that is contrary to the word and will of God.

A stronghold is a negative pattern of thoughts, emotions, or attitudes’ leading to behaviors which has been burned into the soul either through repetition over time or through a one-time traumatic experience, that is contrary to the word and will of God.

Generational CursesGenerational Curses

Dr. Terry Wise, in his text The Fundamentals of Spiritual Warfare, makes the following statement regarding the disbelief of many Christians regarding ancestral sin (generational curses).

“Revealing their scientific worldview, many find it hard to believe that ancestral sin can also be an entry point for Satan’s work. However, this reality is based on both theology and experience. If one’s parents or ancestors were involved in the occult and experienced demonic activity, then the children and ancestors may also be affected by that experience.”

“We have no problem accepting this principle in the physical realm. Why is it so hard to accept in the spiritual realm? A child born to drug addicted parents may come into the world with a chemical dependency on those drugs from which he/she has absolutely no responsibility. The child is a victim of the parents’ sin. It is readily accepted that children who are victims of emotional abuse have a greater tendency to become abusive parents themselves.”

Generational CursesGenerational Curses

Kathy McReynolds and Boyd Luter, in their article “Recovering through Fully Biblical Recovery,” in the Christian Research Journal, make the following statement regarding “intergenerational sin.”

“Without alleviating personal responsibility, however, it is crucial to acknowledge the profound affect that past experiences can have on the present. To downplay this is to bypass a bedrock scriptural principle: sin is “intergenerational,” that is, the sins of the fathers are passed down to their children (Deut. 5:9). This is why the Israelites were commanded not only to obey the Law, but also to teach it to their children (6:7-9). In this way, the Israelites would “pass down” to their posterity the right ways of the Lord so it might go well with them.

Romans 8:11-13

11 But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. 12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. 13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify (put to death) the deeds of the body, ye shall live.

Mortifying: (Destroying the Flesh)Mortifying: (Destroying the Flesh)

The Holy Spirit performs in us all that the Lord has done outside us. Jesus’ crucifixion is a finished work; mortification or “putting the flesh to death” is accomplished by the Holy Spirit assisting a believer in experiencing Christ’s work (victory) in every area of his/her life.

1 John 1:3-43 That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you,

that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus

Christ. 4 And these things write we unto you,that your joy may be full.

The Most Significant Factor In Relapse Prevention: Your Fellowship with God

Phase 2

“The first reason God created man was for the purpose of relationship. God the Father wanted a family of children to share life with to get to know in a personal way. Throughout Scriptures God’s desire for fellowship and communion with man is revealed. From the time that God sought Adam “in the garden in the cool of the day” God has been seeking fellowship with man (Genesis 3:8). However, the sin which caused Adam to hide from God has been hindering man’s relationship with God ever since (Isaiah 59: 1,2). It is only through the New Covenant that God’s purpose of a relationship with man is fully accomplished. Now God indwells each believer making fellowship constantly available (John 14:16-20,23).” Kevin J. Conner

The Most Significant Factor In Relapse Prevention: Fellowship with God

KOINONIA or FELLOWSHIP:A partnership between God and a believer requiring faith & obedience in

common participation

of a love experience.

Developing an Understanding

of their NEW IDENTITY IN CHRIST and Having Faith in

It

CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT

through Relational

knowledge of God

The Most Significant Factors In Relapse Prevention: Fellowship with God

“A farmer is helpless to grow grain; all he can do is provide the right conditions for the growing of grain. He cultivates the ground, he plants the seed, he waters the plants, and then the natural forces of the earth take over and up comes the grain. This is the way it is with the Spiritual Disciplines, they are the way of sowing to the Spirit. The Disciplines are God’s way of getting us into the ground; they put us where he can work within us and transform us. By themselves the Spiritual Disciplines can do nothing; they can only get us to a place where something can be done. They are God’s means of grace. The inner righteous we seek is not something that is poured on our heads. God has ordained the Disciplines of the spiritual life as the means by which we place ourselves where he can bless us.”

Practicing The Basic Spiritual DisciplinesPracticing The Basic Spiritual Disciplines

The Discipline of the Holy Spirit: (The

Greatest Means of Grace)

Fellowship Prayer

FastingThanksgivin

g

God’s Word (Primary Tool for Spiritual Growth)

Praise & Worship

Spiritual Disciplines: A Means to God’s Grace

The 6 Basic Spiritual

Disciplines

2 Corinthians 5:17

17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation;the old has gone, the new

has come! (NIV).

The 2nd Most Significant Factor In Relapse Prevention: Understanding & Having Faith in Your Identity in Christ

Phase 3

Past Aspect of Holiness Present Aspect of Holiness

Future Aspect of Holiness

POSITIONAL. All believers have been set aside and made holy for God’s service as saints, regardless of age, or spiritual growth (1Cor 1:2,30)

PROGRESSIVE. Depends upon our knowledge of and faith in our position in Christ (Ro. 6:11), Changing Position into experience.

FINAL. When you see the Lord and are made like Him sinless, without illness, deathless (1 Cor. 4;15:54; 1 Jn 3:2)

Your position is final, unchangeable, inseparable from your right relational standing, and the result solely of our union with Christ.

Progressive, changeable, depends upon submitting to God’s will (Ro. 6:13) and conforming to God’s Word (Ro. 12:2).

ETERNAL. Will result in your final state in eternity (Phil 3:21).

As God sees you in Christ (1Co. 1:2,30, with Phil 1:1 etc.)

As you are in your conduct (2 Thess 2:13)

As you shall be in glory (Ro. 8:29, 1 Co. 15:49). Unger Bible Book (modified)

Exercise: Positional Holiness Exercise: Positional Holiness

UNDERSTANDING HOW CHRIST RESTORES SPIRITUAL ORDER:PROVIDING A SOLUTION TO ALL MAN’S PROBLEMS

Mental Stronghol

d

Will

Negative Emotions

New Heart

Center of Activity

Guilt ShameFear

All of Adam’s physical needs were being met through his restored soul

 

The Body

The Inner ManAll of

mankind’s spiritual needs being met by God (a developmental issue; babe in Christ, recreated) 2 Co. 5:17

The Outer Man (soul)

Soul has been taught to live independent of his spirit & God. A restoration issue (Js. 1:21).

Man’s

SoulServant Prid

e Rejection

Projection &Blame

Self-Pity Lonelines

s

People Pleasing

Street Mentality

Low Self Esteem

Sex immoralityPrison

MentalityUn-

forgiveness

Awfulizing Christianity & Sobriety

Anger

Holy Spirit

Spirit/Master

The indwelling of the Holy Spirit (Jn.

14:17)New

Heart

To be “born again” receiving a new nature and a new life in God, a member in the “Body of Christ.”

Avoiding The Identity Crisis

Part # 2

“At the moment of your conversion, you were justified completely in God’s sight. Your old sinful self was destroyed forever. You were made a partaker of the divine nature, the nature of Christ. You became anew person in Christand you were declared by God to be a saint. This was a one-time transformation.There is nothing you can do to improve upon God’s activity in transforming you and justifying you. He intends merely that you believe what He’s done and accept your identity as His child.” Neil T. Anderson

“Works of the Flesh”

mortified by Holy Spirit &

Soul transformed by renewing of the

mind(Rom. 8:11-13, 12:2)

Old NatureSpiritual

Death(Genesis

2:17)

Old HeartStony,

Hardened

(Ezek. 36:26b)

Unbeliever

(Eph.2:1-3)

Soul + FleshStrongholds,

Cravings. Appetites

(Gal. 6:7-10)

Educated By

The World& Satan

(1John 2:15-17)

New NatureSpiritual Rebirth(Titus 3:5)

New HeartFor God

(Ez. 36:26b-27)

New CreatureIn Christ(2 Co. 5:17)

Soul + FleshStrongholds,

Cravings. Appetites

(Gal. 6:7-10)

What Makes A Person an Addict/Alcoholic?

The Old Man Ephesians-- 2:1-10The Old Man Ephesians-- 2:1-10

A New Creature In Christ-- 1 Cor. 6:9-11A New Creature In Christ-- 1 Cor. 6:9-11

Grace: God’s Undeserved

Favor (His willingness to use His resources to

assist you in your Christian walk)

Peace:A state of spiritual

well-being, contentment (Having peace with God and the Peace of God

through being in right relational standing

with God)

RelationalKnowledge:Full, Personal, precise and

correct knowledge of God and of Jesus our

Lord

God’s Amazing Grace: Biblical Formula for Growth (2 Peter 1:2)

Richard J. Foster, states in his text, The Celebration of Discipline, “God has given us

the Disciplines of the spiritual life as a means of receiving grace. The Disciplines

allow us to place ourselves before God so that he can transform us.” He

continues by explaining how the Apostle Paul stated, “but he who sows to his own

flesh will from the flesh reap corruption; but he who sows to the Spirit will from the

Spirit reap eternal life” (Gal 6:8).

Practicing The Basic Spiritual Disciplines Practicing The Basic Spiritual Disciplines

Cultivated by

Practicing the “Works

of the Flesh”

Witchcraft

Old Nature Seeds

(Flesh) of Addiction in Old Heart

Drunkenness

Idolatry

Alcohol & Drug Addictio

n

Galatians 6: 8

Summarization of a Biblical View of Addiction

Seeds being

cultivated by

Practicing the 6 Basic

Spiritual Disciplines

New Nature Fruit of the

Spirit(seeds)

Restoration

Prayer

Praise & Worship

Fasting

Thanksgiving

Fellowship

Word of God

Galatians 6: 8

Summarization of a Biblical View of Relapse Prevention