12-step programs

Is it permissible to attend a twelve-step program such as AA or FA (Food Addicts)?

As a church body, we have concerns about the religious aspects of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). In step number 2 of The Twelve Steps, there is acknowledgement of a “Power greater than ourselves.” Participants in AA are free to define who or what that Power is. In step number 3 there is reference to “God as we understood him.” Participants in AA are free to define God however they understand him. Step number 11 uses the same wording: “God, as we understood him.” Once again, participants in AA are free to understand God however they like.

As Christians, we know that is not like selecting an answer for a multiple choice question where all the choices are equally valid. In the Bible God explains clearly who he is. He is a Triune God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. AA fails to provide clear testimony to the truth of God’s Word. And while AA provides opportunities for Christians to state their beliefs, circumstances can be such where Christian witness is absent much more than present.

Joint prayer at AA meetings is another concern. Scripture directs us to refrain from activities like prayer when we are with others who do not share a common belief (Romans 16:17).

In light of all this, WELS members have been able to participate in AA by not taking part in joint prayer. In addition, they have recognized the concerns in the three steps mentioned previously and have not, by their words and actions, endorsed the idea that people may define God however they want.

No doubt you can see that we need to be cautious if we are considering utilizing AA. A conversation with one’s pastor about the experiences can be very helpful. Finally, be aware that Christian Family Solutions is able to provide help without the concerns of AA that have been mentioned.

Food Addicts (FA) adapts AA’s Twelve Steps and includes similar references to “God” in their Twelve Steps. In FA’s “Twelve Traditions” there is this statement: “For our group purpose there is but one ultimate authority —a loving God as He may express Himself in our group conscience.” As group participants are left to define God, cautions similar to AA are in place.