Question

Are groups like AA and ALANON, O.K. for Christians to participate in?

Answer

Christians may participate in any endeavor as long as it does not violate Scripture.  When we come to such groups like Alcholics Anonymous (AA and ALANON), I believe we have crossed the line and find conflict with Scripture.  If AA simply gave you assistance through their AA groups without any reference to the spiritual, then it would be neutral, much like a weight-loss group trying to encourage each other to stop overeating.  But AA adds the spiritual
dimension.

Now, if AA taught that Jesus Christ, and Jesus Christ alone was the answer, and that praying and seeking His help, after yielding oneself over to him by Repentance, Belief, and Submission, then I would say it would be an excellent means to help a Christian overcome the sin of Alcoholism. However, AA, does not do this, in fact, they promote the "Mush" god.  A god of "mush" that really has no standards and everything and everybody is ok.

AA in Tradition #2 says, "For our group purpose there is but one ultimate authority--a loving God as he may express Himself in our group conscience."

It sounds good, except for that last part, "as he may express Himself in our group conscience"  This is not the true God, for the 'group" does not determine who and what He is, He has define Himself clearly in His Word and through His Christ--the group does not define him by a general vote.

A quote from an AA group in Colorado, "The world of Spirituality is large enough for all of us to fit in where we feel comfortable.  There is no one right way to be Spiritual.  Every religious body has its set of Sacred scriptures on how their universe was formed, certain guiding ideals or maxims to live by, and a methodology that shows they are striving to live a life as their Spiritual Entity would want them to live. "  "Faith in a Higher Power, Great Spirit, or God -- which are some of the names used in reference to that Deity."

I would use the Scripture, "Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can
light have with darkness?"  [2 Corinthians 6:14]  This passage speaks of being in union with the unsaved in a "spiritual endeavor."  It does not prohibit a business partnership, or being on a sports team with them, but whenever the group advocates spiritual power or basis for their accomplishment of purpose, then it violates the Word of God.

I would say that, most of what AA does, coupled with the true God and message of Christ could work, say in the context of the Church helping Alcoholics (Christians or not).  God's Word is able to solve the problem of the sins and addiction of alcohol.

Added to Bible Bulletin Board's "Tony Capoccia's Questions and Answers" by:

Tony Capoccia
Bible Bulletin Board
Box 314
Columbus, New Jersey, USA, 08022
Websites: www.biblebb.com and www.gospelgems.com
Email: tony@biblebb.com
Online since 1986