Alcoholics Anonymous
I am looking towards Alcoholics Anonymous to help overcome a drinking problem. What is your opinion on AA? Would it be beneficial for a Christian to go to this group or not? Thank you
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 certainly 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. Unlike the Scouting movement or lodges that require participation in their religious elements, AA does not demand that Christians compromise their faith. They provide opportunities to do so, but Christians need to turn down those opportunities. If you utilize AA, it would be good to debrief with your pastor, as you can, to steer clear of any issues that might impact your faith negatively.
Finally, be aware that WLCFS-Christian Family Solutions is able to provide the services you need without the concerns of AA that have been mentioned. That would be my first recommendation to you. God bless your efforts in overcoming this issue in your life.