Contention, strife and arguments arise when we proof-text and do not submit to the Spirit of Christ who should be leading us to “wherever possible be at peace with all men” and who added a new commandment which to me is a sure measure of the maturity of a Christian, “And a new commandment I give to you that you love one another [other believers]. By this others will know that you are my disciples IF you have love for one another.” I have personally found that Celebrate Recovery works because it is Christ-Centered and ALL principles are built on clearly taught scripture. Are there problems, sure, are they blasphemy? Not as far as serious study reveals (Sorry so-called modern day Berean dudes An earlier writer gets hung up on the use of the term “sin” as opposed to more modern day phrases that show sin to be a universal plaque that infects all of us. The terms used by CR must be defined just like sin was defined by Christ and the apostles: Matthew 15:19, Mark 7:21; Acts 15:20,29, 21:25; 2 Corinthians 12:21; Galatians 5:19; Ephesians 5:3; Colossians 3:5; 1 Thessalonians 4:3-6; 1 Timothy 1:9-10; Revelation 9:21. The Spirit has used these lists to terrify me about Satan;s desire to destroy me and my testimony. They have helped me humble myself before the Lord and arrive at a point of brokenness seeing the need resist by the power of the Spirit and have the hope that 30 years of defeat in an area of struggle cna be overcome like every other struggle, temptation or test with listed sin that so easily entangle me. Now I am more battle ready as I run with endurance the race that is set before me (comprised of good works that have nothing to do with my salvation just a evidence of same Through out my walk with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ one of the most effective tools He has used is the small battle group. (Sorry not directly in the bible but a permissible metaphor used by the apostles to help more effectively communicate the gospel – For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ. CR warts and all has been one of the most effective methods for making disciples in the 21st century Church that I have been involved with. Check it out – go to a step study as a skeptic but participate and see for yourself. Don’t fret, the fervent , effective prayer of a righteous man accomplishes much, I know this righteous guy who said he would intercede with the God of Light on your behalf to provide a spiritual force-field delivering you from all evil. Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called — something really super good, but I forget.

@Julie Fidler
Galatians 5:22-24
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

The list of the fruit of the Spirit describes an emotionally balanced, psychologically stable person. Because the Holy Spirit produces this naturally, why would anyone turn to worldly psychology?

Because they have no idea of the great power of The Alimighty God through His Son Jesus!

@Matthew
So it’s pretty obvious where a person’s loyalties lie by who they defend … the AA gospel or the gospel of Jesus!

So, how is it that steppers will NEVER answer a direct question about Jesus? One more time:

Whose steps are you following? PICK ONE ONLY

a) Wilson and Smith
b) Baker and Warren
c) Jesus: To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in HIS STEPS. 1Pe 2:21

After spending soooo much time reading this entire page, I am convinced that every contributing author/commenter had a preconceived idea about both “secular” 12-step programs and CR and was determined to prove them.

Asking misleading questions, like where does the CR program tell you to come to Christ? Principle 3 is all about committing our lives to Jesus Christ. It’s plain as day.

You all make assumptions on the meaning of words like “hurts” and “recovery” which is all biased semantics on your part.

Gina says instead of wasting time in recovery programs, just confess your sin to God and come to Christ. Well, first off, those are both principles/steps in the CR program. Second, salvation isn’t a magical cure for addictions and bad habits. Sure, it happens, but usually it takes a lot more work, and most people can’t do it alone.

When the Bible says “Bad company corrupts good morals,” you should know full well that that is talking about “hanging out with,” “partying with,” “socializing with,” not joining a support group to help encourage each other in the face of addiction. And using sex offenders and your example was clearly a purposeful attempt to make the idea seem repulsive. You’re misleading your readers.

And, mercy folks, a CR Bible is not CR adding to the Bible. The text of the Bible is, beginning to end, the same bible in any book. They just included Bible studies and lessons based off of certain Biblical stories. If this is offensive to you, I hope you don’t have a study Bible, a Bible with a concordance or notations, and heck, better not listen to sermons either. Just sit in the closet reading an old copy of King James and interpret it yourself.

You are all deliberately misleading people to prove your anti-Warren theory and it makes me sick. Don’t bother replying to me, I’m never coming back here.

And again – more ignorance – the POINT of Celebrate Recovery is to make JESUS the ONLY guide in your life. No “higher powers.” Celebrate Recovery members define themselves as believers and followers of Jesus Christ, NO OTHER “POWER.”

Stop judging. Get educated. You mean well, but in the process you are ostracizing the least of these!!!

I think that you should GO to a Celebrate Recovery to see what it is all about before you make a judgment call. It has helped a great many people to shake off baggage and sin and walk with the Lord.

Secondly, why bash psychology and psychiatry? Do you bash ALL forms of modern medicine? The brain is an organ, like the heart is an organ, like the kidneys are organs. God gives His wisdom to physicians and counselors. The soul and the brain are not necessarily the same thing.

Whose steps are you following? Pick one!

a) Wilson and Smith
b) Baker and Warren
c) Jesus: To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in HIS STEPS. 1Pe 2:21

Everyone has a choice. Now is a good time to make the right one.

——————————————-

Below is an excerpt from “Recovery Awareness”
http://megas-houtos-agape.blogspot.com/

Because of first hand witness regarding the influence and relevance of recovery syncretism, my intention is to convey accurate Biblical truth and perspective through an economy of non-inclusive overviews and thoughts. My sole objective is to point to Jesus and His teachings as stated in the Bible while encouraging each reader to study God’s word with the guidance from the Holy Spirit. Many of the writings posted are from well-studied authors that sustain my highest recommendation, including Mr. Sundquist.

@Jamie

05/22/2012

Dear Jamie:

Just some questions to consider:

1. Where in the Bible is Jesus ever given a title of a “higher power”? Is not calling Him a “higher power” stating He is one of many ways to salvation instead of the ONLY way as scripture declares?

John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father EXCEPT BY ME.” (emphasis added)

Acts 4:12, “There is NO OTHER NAME under heaven by which men must be saved.” (emphasis added)

2. If that is true, then by what authority does CR call Jesus a “higher power”? Could you please give me sound Biblical evidence to reveal Jesus ever had a title of a “higher power”?
Please read my input on this issue on my 12 step website http://www.12stepexposure.com under the link “12 step topics” and “essential doctrines” to learn why calling Jesus Christ is not Biblical and really is an insult to His character and attributes.

3. What authorizes CR to compose their own Bible translation such as the Celebrate Recovery Bible? Does God’s word not warn us to avoid adding and subtracting from His word? (read Proverbs 30: 5-6; Revelation 22: 18-19)

a. Cult groups such as Jehovah’s Witnesses and the church of Jesus Christ of Latter day saints have their own Bible versions which have only been corrupted to advance their own agendas and suit their own theology. How is what CR is doing by composing their own versions any different than these other cult groups?

4. Could you please show me where in the Bible CR is authorized to use psychology as part of its teachings? CR heavily uses psychological terminology such as “addictions”, “compulsive behaviors”, and “hurts, habits, and hang-ups”. Are you suggesting that blatant sexual sin against God is simply an “addiction” or a “habit”? Here is the issue at hand. Secular 12 step groups such as Alchoholics Anonymous call drunkenness an “illness”. In other words, it is “really no fault of their own”. While CR may show that such actions were deliberate choices, CR is at fault when it believes people need to be “healed” by man-made psychology instead of the blood of Jesus Christ. 1 Timothy 4:1 makes it clear that teaches influenced by fields such as psychology are simply “doctrines of demons”.

5. Where are we told in scripture that Spirit-filled Christians must continue to “struggle” and constantly find excuses to “struggle”? Are you and others who attend CR supposed to be “encouraged” when an old-timer who has been with 12 step programs states, “Hello, my name is John Doe and I am a believer in Jesus Christ who struggles with alcoholism.”? Do scriptures such as Matthew 19:26, Romans 8: 31-39, Philippians 4:13, and Hebrews 4:16 make it clear that in Jesus Christ we can CONFIDENTLY live in victory over sin? I once saw a church sign that read, “If you are still struggling, then you are not living in victory”. Jamie, it is one thing for a newcomer who is confused and searching for the truth to struggle, but for old-timers affiliated with 12 step programs for an exhaustive period of time to make an excuse of “struggling” sets a poor example and a negative influence to people lost and dying in sin.

6. Where are we told in scripture to always tell others one side of God’s character, that is His love and grace, but never warn lost sinners of His justice and eternal hell? I firmly believe in the Biblical doctrine of grace. God is full of mercy and will gladly extend it to those who obey the Gospel message of Jesus Christ. However, God is also a just God and cannot let unrepentant sinners into His heaven. How come CR never warns lost sinners about His justice and an eternal hell? When was the last time you heard a sound Biblical teaching at a 12 step meeting on God’s justice and eternal hell? Excuse me, but is God “so loving” that He would never judge people who reject His offer of forgiveness through His Son, Jesus to an eternity in hell? That is simply a figment of a person’s imagination. God must punish sin, and will only consider people who have accepted the free gift of salvation no longer under His wrath.

Jamie, here is the issue plain and simple. We are not against the people affiliated with 12 step programs. I firmly believe the gospel message of Jesus Christ is for all people irrespective of race, culture, physical appearance, sinful choices, etc. etc. God is no respector of persons (read James 2: 1-9). Just as the angels in heaven rejoice over one sinner who genuinely repents of sin (read Luke 15), we too should rejoice when someone is soundly coverted. However, sir, our concern as you should see is that when a program waters down God’s word to make it inoffensive to those who hear the gospel message of Jesus Christ, we should lovingly yet tactfully warn the church of such demonic influence.

@Jamie

05/22/2012

Dear Jamie:

I humbly accept your apology, but I do want you to understand my position. My goal is to lovingly and gently but also in a tactful manner point people affiliated with 12 step programs to the truth according to God’s word.

I would like to inform you that I do currently have my own website posted devoted to revealing why I believe the way I do about programs such as CR failing to teach the truth according to God’s word. You are more than welcome to visit it at http://www.12stepexposure.com.

Let me please use an illustration to help you better understand my position. Pretend that one day you saw a glass of clear liquid that appeared to be water. You are thirsty, and proceed to drink it, not realizing that it is really poisinous acid. I am there in your presence, and I am fully aware that it is poison you are about to drink. However, I choose to remain silent. After you survive and are healed, I confess to you that I knew it was poison, but refused to warn you. How would you feel? Offended? Hurt? Angry? As Christians we should forgive those who wrong us, but obviously that does not imply hurtful or angry feelings will still be present.

My goal in the above example is to show you that my intention is to warn people of the corrupted influence of 12 step recovery groups, but in a way that shows I care. Too many people criticize and assume my motive is to conduct myself as a “modern day Pharisee”, when in fact it is simply meant to warn the body of Christ of demonic leaven. God’s word makes it clear that in the last days that many would turn from sound doctrine and instead listen to that which “itches their ears” (2 Timothy 4: 3-4).

If you take time to read my biography/testimony, you would discover the reason not only for the website but also for presenting God’s plan of salvation. Many critics state that people like me are simply “wasting their time”. If I was “wasting my time”, how come I am so concerned about where people will spend their eternity that I am willing to speak the truth in love and tell it exactly like it is according to God’s word?

One final comment – I was also once involved in 12 step recovery programs, CR for two years and Narcotics Anonymous for five years. I am speaking not only from a research point of view from God’s word, but also my experience involved in 12 step programs after searching the truth in God’s word. God bless you and thank you!

@Jamie
Every word of God is tested; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. Do not add to His words Or He will reprove you, and you will be proved a liar. Proverbs 30:5-6

To do something because someone says ‘it works’ or ‘feels right’ can often be the worst possible reason for doing it; especially if the act flies so clearly in the face of scripture. There is an obvious problem with all twelve step including celebrate recovery’s new latter day healing approach; it is not Biblical doctrine. If it was necessary, the historic Christian church was flawed. If CR is correct, then Rick Warren is a prophet and according to his own words you and “everyone needs recovery”, another words everyone is spiritually incomplete without this man made program. CR distorts the use of scriptures and also incorporates the 12 steps of alcoholics anonymous; both of these heresies are exactly what we are warned about in God’s word. Just because the name Jesus is stamped all over this new syncretism, that wrongful branding will never make it of The Lord.

“Woe to the rebellious children,” declares the LORD, “Who execute a plan, but not Mine, And make an alliance, but not of My Spirit, In order to add sin to sin; Isa 30:1

Guard what has been entrusted to you, avoiding worldly and empty chatter and the [ἀντίθεσις] opposing arguments of what is falsely called “knowledge”— which some have professed and thus gone astray from the faith.

There is a spirit of recovery and it is an [ἀντίθεσις] antithesis to The Holy Spirit of God. This is a most relevant, spiritually eternal and lethal issue within The Body of Christ that must be addressed. While the Holy Spirit points exclusively towards Jesus [John 15:26] as the only “way and the truth and the life” [John 14:6] and “God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline” [2Ti 1:7], the spirits of recovery will always miss-direct, lie and corrupt the truth [John 8:44] regarding 1) Who Jesus is: by referring to Him as a higher power, a contrived man made delusion, a latter day symbol, a critical and lethal misdirection regarding the full counsel of God; 2) What Jesus said: by distorting and re-interpreting the scriptures; taking the Word of God out of context of original teaching; 3) Why he came: by conforming to steps and relying on works, generating a self-righteousness instead of a righteousness solely because of the atoning blood of Jesus; lying about His teaching by stating the steps and principles are from God; creating an anti-scriptural sinners separating faction within the body, void of studying and applying all of the Holy Scriptures in context.

“How can you say, ‘We are wise, and the law of the LORD is with us’? But behold, the lying pen of the scribes has made it into a lie. “The wise men are put to shame, they are dismayed and caught; Behold, they have rejected the word of the LORD, and what kind of wisdom do they have? Jeremiah 8:8-9

Authors note:
Very sad but revealing: This fact exposes the critical nature and depth of this syncretistic teaching. A veil covers their hearts when the steps are read exactly as described in 2Cr 3:15-18

Closing facts:
The Bible is absolutely void of Jesus even suggesting anything like the CR works/steps/principles teaching and syncretism, anywhere, period, that fact is too obvious and practically silly to mention. To call CR “Christ centered” only proves an absolute disregard for God’s word. Therfore, because we are warned so clearly never to run ahead of The Lords teachings, nor add to, nor subtract from Gods Words, I highly suggest to anyone involved with any form of syncretistic teaching and Bible distortions to stop, turn to Jesus and ask His forgiveness immediately.

@Brian

Brian, you quoted:

“But in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men”

I do not believe the scripture is meant to be used as a weapon. Again, I think you are failing to understand my position.

“Oh yes I got it, I just tossed it out like I do the trash”

Okay, but I hope you did not throw the baby out with the bath water also.

“After being directly involved in CR for too long, the Holy Spirit showed how wrong I was and pointed me back to the Bible truths.”

If a CR program is implemented the way it is designed, there would be no need to be pointed back to the Bible Truths, It is all the body of Christ whether it’s CR, Church on Sunday done the traditional way. I wonder if you were involved in a particularly unhealthy program or if some relational problem caused you to believe the way you do, but that’s between you and God.

“Quote: “In fact, the steps point them in a logical progression to Jesus!” I compelled to be clear: This is an absolute lie from the pit of hell. Quote: “Believers in Jesus Christ who also practice the Twelve Steps do not believe in the steps as their “salvation” for eternal life.” So what are so called believers doing with something that does not work?”

Strong Proclamation bro! But I think you do not understand what was meant by the above referenced quote. What is meant (that I’m sure you will still want to argue) is that people really need to see for themselves their powerlessness over life, their need for something greater than themselves, and to turn their will and life over to the care of God (Which is the only God that works, Jesus) People in our culture are mostly just told by their parents/grandparents what they ought to believe and should believe. This is okay, but there’s a huge difference in believing what someone compels you to believe and what you come to believe for yourself.

“The facts are in: More people quite drugs and alcohol by themselves than with any form of treatment, the industry term for this is spontaneous remission. More people come to The Lord than through any form of steps, the industry term for that is faith.”

Really? Addicted people or people who just use drugs/alcohol as a phase of life thing? I don’t know anyone who was truly addicted who just quit on their own will but I know a lot of people who thought they could “manage” their A&D use and continuously relapse. Where do your “facts” come from?? In addition You believe people come to the Lord through means other than Honesty? Surrender? Belief? Confession? Repentance? Discipleship? & Prayer? (Things the Steps entail) Wow. Studying the Bible makes no one more of a believer than does studying Mythology. Don’t you know Satan studies the Bible and knows it better than most people, I’m certain? Is he a believer in Jesus for this?

“As fact, everything you stated has a basis of either no study/a lack of knowledge or just plain lying. Let me alsJesus o be plain, pointing out Biblical/absolute truths is not “persecution” it is exactly what himself did while He was walking on earth.”

Brian: Don’t take this the wrong way but I don’t think Jesus died to leave you in charge of being Jesus. The Bible I have states that Jesus did a lot more than going around correcting people, dressing people down, and correcting their theology. As a matter of fact, he developed relationships with people, knew them, understood them. and loved them into relationship. You might ought to try this dimension of Jesus.

“And please never try to assume what I may be reading or studying, most of my studies are posted in my profile on my website, perhaps after review you will never make such assumptions of who you are trying to define.”

Only Jesus should define you Brian. I have not been to your website and have very little desire to do so (no offense). All I know is the strangeness of your criticisms demonstrated here of a program that’s allowed Jesus to reach many who otherwise may not have been reached.

Jesus says:
Anyone who goes too far and does not abide in the teaching of Christ, does not have God; the one who abides in the teaching, he has both the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house, and do not give him a greeting; for the one who gives him a greeting participates in his evil deeds.
2 John 1:9-11
“You shall not add to the word which I am commanding you, nor take away from it, that you may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you. Deuteronomy 4:2
Every word of God is tested; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. Do not add to His words Or He will reprove you, and you will be proved a liar. Proverbs 30:5-6
‘But in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men.’” Mat 15:9
so that in us you may learn not to exceed what is written, so that no one of you will become arrogant in behalf of one against the other. 1 Corinthians 4:6
How can you say, ‘We are wise, And the law of the LORD is with us’? But behold, the lying pen of the scribes Has made it into a lie. “The wise men are put to shame, They are dismayed and caught; Behold, they have rejected the word of the LORD, And what kind of wisdom do they have? Jeremiah 8:8-9
Please read the real Bible, all of it, always in context. Understand what Jesus taught and implement what He says.

Be careful how you use scripture to support your positions. Your interpretation of the scripture you quote may not apply as much as you think, especially when you don’t understand where the other person is coming from. In fact, quoting scripture to people is usually a great way to turn people off and almost never wins them to your point of view. Think about the great job (sarcasm) Christians have done reaching homosexuals by always quoting scripture. Scripture is always subject to interpretation and if you remember in the Bible Jesus was usually correcting the people who were misusing scripture, abusing people with scripture, and thought they were so correct in their positions. It’s about as ineffective as going to a stranger’s door and blindly knocking on their door asking “mam, if you died tonight, do you know where you’d spend eternity?” Try meeting people where they are. Get to know them, understand them, ect. Your approach (even if not meant that way) is often perceived as rigid, judgmental, overly pious, and self-righteous. No harm intended, but I used to think like you somewhat. Ironically, recovery from bad religion is part of my recovery program. Peace.

@Jamie
‘But in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men.’

Oh yes I got it, I just tossed it out like I do the trash.
After being directly involved in CR for too long, the Holy Spirit showed how wrong I was and pointed me back to the Bible truths. Quote: “In fact, the steps point them in a logical progression to Jesus!” I compelled to be clear: This is an absolute lie from the pit of hell. Quote: “Believers in Jesus Christ who also practice the Twelve Steps do not believe in the steps as their “salvation” for eternal life.” So what are so called believers doing with something that does not work? The facts are in: More people quite drugs and alcohol by themselves than with any form of treatment, the industry term for this is spontaneous remission. More people come to The Lord than through any form of steps, the industry term for that is faith. As fact, everything you stated has a basis of either no study/a lack of knowledge or just plain lying. Let me also be plain, pointing out Biblical/absolute truths is not “persecution” it is exactly what Jesus himself did while He was walking on earth. And please never try to assume what I may be reading or studying, most of my studies are posted in my profile on my website, perhaps after review you will never make such assumptions of who you are trying to define.

Jesus says:
Anyone who goes too far and does not abide in the teaching of Christ, does not have God; the one who abides in the teaching, he has both the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house, and do not give him a greeting; for the one who gives him a greeting participates in his evil deeds.
2 John 1:9-11

“You shall not add to the word which I am commanding you, nor take away from it, that you may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you. Deuteronomy 4:2

Every word of God is tested; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. Do not add to His words Or He will reprove you, and you will be proved a liar. Proverbs 30:5-6
‘But in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men.’” Mat 15:9

so that in us you may learn not to exceed what is written, so that no one of you will become arrogant in behalf of one against the other. 1 Corinthians 4:6

How can you say, ‘We are wise, And the law of the LORD is with us’? But behold, the lying pen of the scribes Has made it into a lie. “The wise men are put to shame, They are dismayed and caught; Behold, they have rejected the word of the LORD, And what kind of wisdom do they have? Jeremiah 8:8-9

Please read the real Bible, all of it, always in context. Understand what Jesus taught and implement what He says.

@barney clynch

Greetings Mr. Barney:

First: Who am I to condemn homosexuals or anyone? Why would it be necessary for me to do God’s job of condemnation which he has done in his written word? I just find it very strange and almost bizarre that you guys want to criticize a program as being from an “evil spirit” which has helped countless souls find enough stability to actually find God’s grace or Jesus. Point to consider (Mr. Barney) If someone does come to your Church (Which I assume is Christian) and they happen to be Muslim or homosexual. You might want to consider the relationship approach other than attempting to show them the “errors of their ways”

Secondly: Mr. Barney, you are absolutely correct, that the Bible is clear itself for those who have an open heart and open mind. It’s been said You defend God just like defending a lion, get the heck out of his way. (Which makes our debate useless in a sense)

Lastly Mr. Barney: I do apologize about my previous rant which was offensive to you. I would like to make amends for those comments given that you (Mr. Barney) found them offensive. They were more directed toward another (Whom the post was addressed to) whom had taken more of a hostile position and I believed could handle the tone I spoke (which I do not believe was entirely un “Christ-like” (Remember Jesus used terms like “brood of vipers” & “white-washed tombs” when he was dealing with pharisees, not that you Mr. Barney are a pharisee but just saying….) I do not see you as an enemy Mr. Barney. I believe you are probably a nice church-going man. I think you have likely fallen into a trap many of the religiously and theologically correct have of knowing some doctrine but not being able to apply the principles of relationship that was really Christ’s main doctrine. I will pray for you and the others. I challenge you and your colleagues to really do some research and homework about what you are so adamantly opposing, condemning, and judging. Because Jesus comes to CR and AA. Where was he in the Bible? Always in the temple? Always in the pulpit? No! He was out with the sinners who were not hiding behind some “sound” theological beliefs or “correct” way of being a Christian. Think about that!

@Brian

Your really not getting it. Believers in Jesus Christ who also practice the Twelve Steps do not believe in the steps as their “salvation” for eternal life. In fact, the steps point them in a logical progression to Jesus! It’s no different from you practicing your faith (assuming you do) by confession, discipleship, surrender, prayer & meditation, ect. ect. The Twelve Steps & CR were born out of a need for a safe place for people to be accepted just as they were because the Church (As an Institution and religion) was too self-righteous and judgmental for people who struggled with addictive behavior. The twelve steps can probably become objects of idolatry just like many religions in many churches are, but true believers who practice the steps see them in light of the Bible the same way you probably read books on “Christian Living” and see them in light of what the Bible says. In all seriousness, what makes you think God has asked you to persecute people who have gotten sober from a deadly addiction by practicing some steps? (Rhetorical)

Jesus did not teach the 12 steps, this one is obvious.

So let me get out of your way and encourage all 12 steppers to go directly to Jesus, be bold, you tell him that his teaching was incomplete and you have a new “Christ centered” teaching, and then get in his face and point out that he does not have enough power to heal you without: the special AA 12 step foundation; and the special CR steps; and special meetings; and special recovery bibles; and special principles; and special recovery teaching; and special sub programs; and special sponsors; and special music; and special psychologically based teaching; and special testimony; and special friends; and special; and special; and and and…
After you are done with all of that, maybe then you can boast at him about the amount of “time” you have and what the program has done for you, and make sure to let him know that by your program you are “in recovery” and “working the steps” and that you are well on your way, and make sure you point out that he didn’t need to be scourged or suffer for you on the cross! Also this is key, brag that because you are “in recovery” you have no use for all of his teaching because they don’t fit into the 12 steps.

and He will say, ‘I tell you, I do not know where you are from; depart from me, all you evildoers.’ Luk 13:27

Yes! Go tell Jesus he missed on his teaching, that he is not powerful enough to heal and that you need a program. Just let me get out of the way first!

@Jamie
A Biblical Perpective on Healing as seen on:
http://megas-houtos-agape.blogspot.com/

Matthew 13:15
For this people’s heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.
Above teaching and promise stated in Mathew 13:15 and numerous places elsewhere in The Bible are pinnacle towards spiritual healing. We all are given one and only one requirement – “turn” (away from our sin) in a word repent, be compelled by faith in The Lord, and then Jesus heals in full. This simple and absolute promise is embedded throughout the Bible. One must understand that these are two totally different, even opposite teachings, one is to repent: God’s grace and power doing all of the work of forgiving, cleansing and restoration which is:

Freedom / (a gift from God) / Faith

The other, a lying spirit of recovery telling you that everyone must: work Steps – [12]; work Principles – [8]; continually go to Meetings – [forever]; rely on a Sponsor – [a person]; frequently attend recovery Groups – [forever]; public Confession [false humility]; follow special non-Biblical Instruction – [heresy]; special recovery bible Purchases – [money]; personal testimony about the Program – [pointless]; etc. etc. etc… And then do it all over and over for the rest of your life. All this just to achieve what CR calls recovery, but the absolute fact, this is:

Bondage / (a debt from hell) / Works

Actual list of CR works and commitments is too large for this purpose.

Please read the real Bible, all of it, in context, and understand what it says and what Jesus actually taught because,

“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
John 8:36

In His Grip!
Brian D. Kercheval

NOTE: The Bible is absolutely void of Jesus even suggesting anything like the CR works/steps/principles teaching and syncretism, anywhere, period. Furthermore, because we are warned so clearly never to run ahead of The Lords teachings, nor add to, nor subtract from Gods Words, I highly suggest to anyone involved with any form of syncretistic teaching and Bible distortions to stop, turn to Jesus and ask His forgiveness immediately.

@Jamie

Dear Jamie:

Thank you for your comment. I will have to respectfully disagree with you. Some points to consider:

1. Respectfully disagreeing by using God’s word, the Bible as the highest authority in a respectful and assertive manner is not acting “self-righteous”. The only reason why you call us “self-righteous” is because we are concerned about where people in 12 step groups will spend their eternity, and actually care enough to refute unsound and unscriptural doctrine. According to your belief system and in order for you to be consistent, Jamie, then if you openly and assertively refuted homosexuals, Mormons, Jehovah’s Witnesses, etc. etc. that they are in error and their sins deserve to send them to eternal hell for refusing to accept the true Biblical Jesus and for promoting a false Jesus as Celebrate Recovery does, then you, sir/ma’am, are likewise self-righteous for speaking out. So, in other words, all you have done is made false claims and pointed fingers yourself, not to mention, you in no way can practice what you preach if you spoke out and politely yet assertively showed lost sinners the truth according to God’s word. All you have done is contradicted yourself – it amazes me how you point fingers claiming we are “self-righteous”, yet if you stood up for what was right according to God’s word, then you would violate your own belief system. If a Muslim, Buddhist, etc. etc. came into your fellowship and said that, would you lovingly show that person the error of their ways? if you said “yes”, according to your views, then you are self-righteous and you have not practiced what you preach. Our motive to clarify is to gently and lovingly in an assertive manner respectfully show what God’s sound word has to say about false doctrine, which leads me to point #2

2. It is not what you think that counts, and it is not what we think that counts. What does God have to say about these issues? You may be interested to know, sir/ma’am, that any person or group which violates the essential doctrines of Christianity as Celebrate Recovery does not only exposes itself as a cult but also has persons who are not saved as sound converts. You may be interested to visit the following website that shows how God’s word clearly instructs us on the essential doctrines of Christianity and how CR violates them:

http://www.12stepexposure.com/12-step-topics/

CR violates the 8 beatitudes from a Biblical standpoint:

http://www.12stepexposure.com/12-step-topics/8-beatitudes-distortions/

3. By the way, one last thing sir/ma’am. Your attitude is anything but Christ-like. You make the following statement:

“Fire back, Blog it, Journal it, Cry about it, Get Mad, Whatever you need to do, but I think the truth is clear.” Excuse me, but did Jesus encourage His disciples to arouse others to anger on purpose? Did Jesus not say to pray for our enemies and those who come against us? You attack us, but have no intentions to respect either. Maybe you should be the one to examine yourself before the Lord. And yes, I will pray for you, that God blesses you. If you do not like what God’s word says according to our views from a sound Biblical standpoint, then that is between you and the Lord. Just some thoughts to consider. Thank you and God bless!

@Brian

There seems to be very ignorance going around on here about what the Celebrate Recovery and like programs are about in reality and what it is that people experience through a program that is ran the way it was intended. There is a spirit which limits God and his use of things going around on here.

The purpose of “steps work” is not to earn salvation. Jesus does not magically and instantly remove all desire to sin from people nor are people who still struggle with sinful desires unchristian. I hope you guys criticizing the twelve steps never listen or subscribe to any sermon or book on Christian living that makes any suggestions or directions for how to live the Christian life then because according to what you are saying, this would be non-Biblical. Forget the part where the Bible says the steps of a man are ordered by the Lord. Sounds like God believes in step by step processes. If you guys could hold your tongues and self-righteous thinking long enough to read the Twelfth Step you might understand the goal that they are more akin to principles to be lived out and in versus work that makes you a Christian. Besides, the Bible you guys quote so often says do not judge, so why should any of you feel proud enough of your knowledge and beliefs to criticize twelve step program participation. What about the sinful nature? Does it not seem to you that the Christian life is indeed about recovering from a sinful nature as the Bible instructs us to continuously strive to put away the old man?? Do you really think God is not using Celebrate Recovery? How many people have families, lives, and futures turned completely around by meeting Jesus through celebrate Recovery. You want Biblical comparison read the steps yourself, attend a sound CR program somewhere for a while, Talk to some people whose lives have been completely changed who were on the brink of death through their self-destructive lifestyles! Then see where this is your story too! Even if in a much more subtle way through the arrogance of pride, denial, and secretive sins that probably exists in your own lives. Steps 1-3, the process of becoming a believer, the decision. Steps 4-9 = a lot of instructions straight from the Bible, examine yourself, be reconciled, make every effort to….I’m sure you can finish the verses. Steps 10-12 the daily process of practicing faith and discipleship. Now that I’ve completely made the point that refutes any prior criticisms, self-righteous judgments, and potentially hurt some feelings, please do not take it personal, but you guys are attacking something that God is for and that’s plum stupid, ignorant, or crazy!!!! Please don’t send me emails from 5 different guys again and for sure don’t have that one girl who writes a blog and lives in denial about people struggling with sexual addiction or sin send me anything with her snooty attitude. Pleas just accept what I have said. Fire back, Blog it, Journal it, Cry about it, Get Mad, Whatever you need to do, but I think the truth is clear. Amen!! Amen!!

celebrate recovery WHAT?

Christ centered?
Excuse me but misquoting a handful of Bible verses taken out of context has nothing to do with the real Jesus. The last time Jesus was around people misquoting scriptures and adding burdens of works just like celebrate recovery does, He turned over their tables and labeled them, calling this type of people some very, very bad names, telling it to their faces and even teaching how wrong they are behind their backs.
Oh, and buy the way, He promises to burn every last one of them the next time He returns.

Bible Based?
What a bold faced lie. This “base” of celebrate recovery is exclusively the twelve steps of AA, the Bible nor true teachings has absolutely anything to do with the actual foundation nor origin.

And to quote:
“Although Celebrate Recovery meetings are similar to those of other twelve-step programs, one difference is in their focus on Christianity”
Similar to what? celebrate recovery IS a twelve step group and quotes the AA 12 step program every time they get together. And what exactly does “focus on Christianity” mean? When they clearly have nothing to do with the full counsel of God? Just more lies, rapid fire and consistent.

If one can believe these bold lies, one will believe absolutely anything…

@lori

03/12/2012

Dear Miss/Mrs. Lori:

Thank you for your response on the blogspot “Celebrate Recovery Exposed” (http://www.perfectpeaceplan.com). Your feedback is very important, and we appreciate you taking the time to voice your opinions. Here are your comments, and my feedback follows:

“I cannot understand ANY OF YOU and your “all knowing flawless comments”. All of you seem to know everything. What I DO KNOW….Jesus Christ is alive and very real and evident in my life. I put my trust in HIM. I seek HIM (Jesus Christ) and HIS WORD 1st! NOT a person, group or man made book written @ their thoughts. My prayer is to KNOW that I hear the voice of MY shepard, JESUS CHRIST, THE HOLY SPIRIT, THE LIVING GOD. NONE OF US CAN DETERMINE ANYONES HEART, BUT OUR FATHER. I see a lot of “boards in front of eyes and your looking at the splinter in others…” God has given us HIS WORD, I would not even attempt to say i understand everything, but i do know that when i “acknowledge Jesus Christ in ALL my ways HE WILL direct my path.” NOT A MAN made anything. We do need each other, but to encourage and strengthen each other in Jesus Christ, not tear each other down. If you don’t like or agree, that is ok but ask OUR FATHER for HIS will and words. We all tend to s
peak without acknowledging HIM 1ST. These are just some things i feel led to say. If it speaks to you …..”

First, Miss/Mrs. Lori, I do agree with your comment, “to encourage and strengthen each other in Jesus Christ, not tear each other down.” We should encourage one another daily and uplift each other up. At the same time, in response to your comments, there are several factors you should take into consideration to help understand where we are coming from at the “Celebrate Recovery Exposed” blogspot. Some points to consider:

With all due respect to you personally, there is a comment you made that appears you are operating under several assumptions. Your comment was, “I see a lot of “boards in front of eyes and your looking at the splinter in others…” Please consider the following:

1. Matthew 7: 1-5 is one of the most misquoted, misunderstood, and taken out of context verses in the Bible. There are many people who have abused Jesus’ words on being judgmental to promote their own platform of what they want it to say in defense of their own position(s). When a person or persons appropriately by the power of the Holy Ghost gently confront someone or an organization over either his, her, their sin(s) or abuse of scripture (e.g., taking God’s word out of context to suit their own theology), a common response many people give is, “Don’t judge me. Only God has a right to judge. Therefore, who are you to pass judgment on me or us personally?” For example, this is a very common response of homosexuals and lesbians when they are informed (in a respectful and godly manner of course) according to God’s word that homosexuality is a sin against God according to His word and that unless they repent of their homosexuality and fully trust in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, they will spend eternity in hell. Their response many times? “Now, if you are going to tell me that homosexuality is a sin against God, you are ‘judging me’. Jesus loves me just the way that I am, and indeed accepts my homosexual lifestyle whether you like it or not.” Thus, your words on “judging people in CR” by using Matthew 7: 1-5 is viewed as a wrongly justifiable defense mechanism because people in Celebrate Recovery and other 12 step recovery programs do not want to admit they are not in alignment with God and His word.

2. Your opening statement also appears to spell out a major false assumption. Your opening statements are, “I cannot understand ANY OF YOU and your “all knowing flawless comments”. All of you seem to know everything.” In other words, you are falsely assuming that we believe what we do because of our own humanistic logic and reasoning of what we believe about 12 step recovery programs including Celebrate Recovery. Miss/Mrs. Lori, we should make you aware that our conclusions over 12 step recovery programs is due to Biblical research using God’s word as the ultimate authority as what God says about 12 step programs, not what we merely believe by our own humanistic reasoning and logic. We have spent hours researching the major teachings and doctrines of 12 step doctrines and compared these teachings to God’s sound word, the Bible. Ma’am, listen carefully – it is not a matter of whether what we say is ultimately true and is the final authority. Likewise, it is not what you say is the final authority. Let us go to God’s word and hear what God has to say as the final and absolute authority (emphasis added). Listen to what God has to say about His word having the ultimate authority over every major life issue, including flawed and corrupted use of His word:

Isaiah 55: 8-9

8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,”
declares the LORD.
9 “As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts. ”

John 12:48

48 “There is a judge for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; the very words I have spoken will condemn them at the last day.”

In fact, if you took the time to read Mr. Sundquist’s article, “Sinners Anonymous – is this a Biblical model?”, you would discover that Mr. Sundquist validates and justifies his position solely using scriptures from God’s word. Again, people can argue other man-made opinions, ma’am, but people cannot argue facts as presented through God’s word as the final and ultimate authority.

You should also consider reading the following article, “Is the Bible truly the final authority in all matters of faith and morals?” at http://www.christiananswers.net/q-eden/sola-scriptura-bible.html

3. You also make the following comment, ” I seek HIM (Jesus Christ) and HIS WORD 1st! NOT a person, group or man made book written @ their thoughts.” Miss/Mrs. Lori, are you familiar with what is called “Essential doctrines of Christianity”? The essential doctrines of Christianity point to what Christianity was founded upon, and without these essential truths, Christianity has no basis for operation and would be nothing more than false. Some examples include the correct identity of Jesus Christ according to the Bible, the doctrine of the Trinity, and the infallibility of God’s word. I have included an MS Word attachment I wrote how 12 step recovery programs violate all three essential doctrines of Christianity stated just now (read documentation under main heading “Essential doctrines of Christianity versus 12 step doctrines). Ma’am, let me put it to you this way. We could have a debate all day long over the use of the serenity prayer in 12 step groups and its ritualistic use. We could also have a long-winded debate over whether people in 12 step groups trust in Jesus Christ or trust entirely in a group/program, sponsor, and accountability partners. Such a debate may be beneficial to a certain degree, but such issues do not determine where a person spends his or her eternity. Miss/Mrs. Lori, listen carefully to what I am about to tell you. If a person has a flawed perception of who Jesus truly is according to God’s word, that person is risking spending an eternity in hell (e.g., the 12 step recovery perception that Jesus Christ is a “higher power”, one of many ways to salvation, instead of the only way to salvation). If Additionally, if 12 step groups such as Celebrate Recovery promote man-made “recovery” versions of the Bible such as The Life Recovery Bible and The Celebrate Recovery Bible (the CR version has the 8 beatitudes from Matthew 8 and has the distortions and corruptions of the “correlating” Bible verses for each beatitude, thus promoting CR’s own man-made theology), then that is adding to God’s word with man-made theology, something God warns us not to do according to the Bible (read section, “The essential doctrine of the infallibility of God’s word” in the attachment to understand how 12 step programs have violated this essential doctrine of Christianity). Therefore, in conclusion, a person’s view over non-essential doctrines does not determine where a person spends eternity, but a flawed understanding of the essential doctrines of Christianity will determine a person’s eternal destiny. (emphasis added)

Ma’am, you state that your belief is solely in Jesus Christ and God’s word, not anything man-made. However, if that is really true, then how come you attend “recovery meetings” where the doctrines of the group actually point members to believing in man-made philosophies other than Jesus Christ? Do you understand what I am asking? When I attended Celebrate Recovery meetings myself for two and a half years, I met several people who although they had substantial “sobriety time”, did not take time to read God’s word and literally made the program and their sponsors/accountability partners their own idol to worship. So what I am asking you is how can you claim to only worship Jesus Christ as Lord and fully trust in God’s word, when these recovery groups (even recovery groups that operate under a “Christian” name such as Celebrate Recovery) do the exact opposite and persuade their membership to do otherwise? For instance, pretend that a person has a correct view of the identity of Jesus Christ according to the scriptures, but then states, “I have a correct view of who Jesus Christ is, that is His identity according to the Bible, and I also believe I can worship with the local fellowship of Jehovah’s Witnesses and Mormons.” Do you see the contradiction in such a viewpoint? Do you understand what I am saying?

4. You also state, “NONE OF US CAN DETERMINE ANYONES HEART, BUT OUR FATHER.” Miss/Mrs. Lori, I will have to respectfully disagree with you. If we look at what God’s word has to say, we will discover otherwise.

Listen to what Jesus said about false prophets in Matthew 7: 15-20,

15 “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. 16 By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 17 Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.”

Pretend that one day someone lies to you. If a person lied to you, would you not consider that person a liar? What if you witnessed someone stealing from you? Would you not consider that person a thief by his or her actions? Now let me ask you this question. Would you consider a person who professes to be a “Christian” and who also habitually lies, steals, fornicates, or utters blasphemies of God’s name a soundly converted Christian? So basically, here is what you are claiming if I hear you correctly ma’am. You are saying that people who come to these 12 step groups who repeatedly admit they habitually lie, steal, fornicate, etc. and call themselves “Christians” are genuinely saved and sanctified according to the Holy Ghost and the person of Jesus Christ? Again, with all due respect, ma’am, we can return to God’s word for the answer. If you take time to read such scriptures as Hebrews 10: 26-31 and 1 John 3: 4-10, you will discover that people who come to these groups who have not repented of their sins against God and placed saving trust in Jesus Christ will spend eternity in hell unless they do otherwise. My point is that we can rightfully judge a person’s spiritual condition before God based upon his or her repeated conduct and claims of who he or she is. Also consider Matthew 7: 21-23,

21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ 23 Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’

Listen to the words of Jesus from John 7:24

24″Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.”

Finally, Miss/Mrs. Lori, I have written my own feedback on 12 step groups on other websites that you should take time to read as the Lord helped me rightfully use His word (see preceding verse from John 7:24) to judge 12 step recovery programs as being in error against the sound word of God. Here are some of my personal writings on 12 step recovery programs as penned by the Holy Spirit:

http://www.exposingcelebraterecovery.org

http://www.12stepexposure.com

You should also consider visiting my collegue’s website on “recovery awareness”:

http://megas-houtos-agape.blogspot.com/

Both websites will explain further why we believe what we do according to God’s word and what God has to say about 12 step recovery groups. One final comment ma’am. If you are offended by what we say after we have respectfully and rightfully used God’s word, then you are not angry at us. Rather, you are angry at God. All we have done is used God’s sound word, the Bible, as the final authority as why we believe the way we do. If you choose to not agree with what God’s word says about “recovery programs”, then that is your choice. We have simply revealed to you God’s opinion according to His word. If you have chosen to disagree with God’s word on recovery programs, that is a decision you have made for yourself with all due respect. We will pray that God will open your eyes to the deception and corruption of God’s word found in 12 step recovery meeting locations. Again, we thank you for taking the time to give feedback and have a blessed day.

Yours Sincerely,

Mr. Barney Clynch

Christian apologetics research of 12 step programs

@lori
Lori, I am with you, you are correct in saying: “encourage and strengthen each other in Jesus Christ”
You did clearly miss the purpose and all of the main points. Every one of these systematic recovery processes and programs are not only: not scripturally sound; they bring an absolutely polluted and often opposite version of what Jesus actually taught. These are critical errors that point one towards a totally different Gospel (works), different Bible (recovery) and therefore a different Jesus (program). These are the type of activities that the Pharisees taught and for your information, the real Jesus hated them for it too.

Let us stay in step with The Holy Spirit and point only to the real Jesus now and forever!

In His Grip!
Brian D. Kercheval

I cannot understand ANY OF YOU and your “all knowing flawless comments”. All of you seem to know everything. What I DO KNOW….Jesus Christ is alive and very real and evident in my life. I put my trust in HIM. I seek HIM (Jesus Christ) and HIS WORD 1st! NOT a person, group or man made book written @ their thoughts. My prayer is to KNOW that I hear the voice of MY shepard, JESUS CHRIST, THE HOLY SPIRIT, THE LIVING GOD. NONE OF US CAN DETERMINE ANYONES HEART, BUT OUR FATHER. I see a lot of “boards in front of eyes and your looking at the splinter in others…” God has given us HIS WORD, I would not even attempt to say i understand everything, but i do know that when i “acknowledge Jesus Christ in ALL my ways HE WILL direct my path.” NOT A MAN made anything. We do need each other, but to encourage and strengthen each other in Jesus Christ, not tear each other down. If you don’t like or agree, that is ok but ask OUR FATHER for HIS will and words. We all tend to speak without acknowledging HIM 1ST. These are just some things i feel led to say. If it speaks to you …..

BEWARE OF “CHRISTIAN” RECOVERY PROGRAMS!

GREAT SIMPLE PLAIN TRUTH 9 PART AUDIO SERIES BY JIM BATTLE BELOW; AWESOME !

http://sermon.net/alltohisglory/sermonid/2388765

Guard what has been entrusted to your care. Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge, which some have professed and in so doing have departed from the faith.
1 Timothy 6:20

There is a spirit of recovery and it is an [ἀντίθεσις] antithesis to The Holy Spirit of God. This is a most relevant and lethal issue that must be addressed.
While the Holy Spirit points exclusively towards Jesus [John 15:26] as the only way/truth/life [John 14:6], the spirits of recovery will always miss-direct, lie and corrupt the truth [John 8:44] regarding 1) Who Jesus is: by referring to Him as a higher power; a latter day symbol; a goal to achieve instead of receive; totally a misdirection regarding the full counsel of God. 2) What Jesus said: by distorting and re-interpreting the scriptures; taking the Word of God out of context of original teaching. 3) Why he came: by demanding adherence to works; not relying on Gods grace and power; void of studying and applying all of the Holy Scriptures in context; disregarding a primary focus “Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only”.

They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.
Mat 15:9

These lying spirits have created steps and principles which are mere works that induce huge burdens, then they boast “this is the only way to ‘freedom’ and everyone needs it” while keeping you focused on a handful of scriptures taken out of context, on ones self “hurts, hang-up, habits”, and keeping your attention off of Jesus and studying Gods Word in context, these are all ploys of the enemy.

Set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
Colossians 3

In His Grip!
Brian D. Kercheval

WHEN EVERY DISCERNMENT BLOGGER CRIES : WOLF !!!

RICK WARREN CELEBRATE RECOVERY CULT RUN MIND CONTROL CHURCH PROGRAMS

http://mrwbbiii.wordpress.com/2012/02/29/when-every-discernment-blogger-cries-wolf/

Amy

Your quote “Finally, the Bible does not speak of rounding up a group of like, or targeted sinners that I can recall, except to destroy them” has absolutely nothing to do with “self-righteous”-ness. It does have everything to do with an undisputable Biblical fact. The only perspective that you have revealed is your lack of Biblical knowledge along with a preference towards a man-made recovery program and syncretism.

I wish you would tell this directly into the face of Jesus:
“You can throw scripture around all you want to, but the bible is not just a book of facts and God is not just an educator.”
When Jesus addressed the teachers of the law (the “Pharisees” note: there teachings identical to celebrate recovery regarding self-righteous works and ridiculous burdens) He used the scriptures very much the same way as above. Jesus often used the scriptures just like the teachings of James Sundquist. Why? Because there must be a foundation of truth and facts substantiating the teaching. The scriptures are such a non-persuadable constant truth that is unchanging.

There is a purpose for teaching the truths and exposing the lies of the enemy. We are called to point only to the real Jesus as He is, therefore:

Ephesians 1
I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that can be invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.

“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
John 8:36

In His Grip!
Brian D. Kercheval

I found this passage very self-righteous. Dividing a line between what you feel are good people and sinners (those who attend Celebrate Recovery).To quote you “Finally, the Bible does not speak of rounding up a group of like, or targeted sinners that I can recall, except to destroy them” WE ARE ALL SINNERS! EVERYBODY STRUGGLES WITH SOMETHING! It may not be as stereotypical as alcohol or drugs, but a sin is a sin and those people are not congregating with a bunch of sinners, they are congregating with a bunch of Christ followers who are struggling with sin in their life who are actually brave enough to admit it unlike numbers in the actual congregations who hide their sins from the public. So, who would I trust to help me recover, someone who is living in secret sin to uphold their public image or someone who is freely admiting theirs who I can acutally relate to? You can throw scripture around all you want to, but the bible is not just a book of facts and God is not just an educator. There is a relationship involved and the bible was meant as not only a guide but to interpret the nature of God. I really don’t think He is looking down shaking His head at Celebrate Recovery when people are being healed and saved. Jesus healed on the sabbath to make a point. What’s more important, following the law or a life being saved? REALLY? Come on. Thanks to God using the tool CR in mine and my husbands’ life, my husband has 6 years of sobriety and has helped many other men find sobriety as well.

Proverbs 30
“Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar.

To do something because someone says ‘it works’ or ‘feels right’ can often be the worst possible reason for doing it; especially if the act flies so clearly in the face of scripture. There is an obvious problem with celebrate recovery’s new latter day healing approach; it is not Biblical doctrine. If it was necessary, the historic Christian church was flawed. If CR is correct, then Rick Warren is a prophet and according to his own words you and “everyone needs recovery”. CR distorts the use of scriptures and also incorporates the 12 steps of alcoholics anonymous; both of these heresies are exactly what we are warned about in God’s word. Just because the name Jesus is stamped all over this new syncretism, that wrongful branding will never make it of The Lord. Doctrine cannot be 95% good and 5% arsenic, or it would be the theological equivalent of rat poison! This means that the use the 12 steps alone pollutes everything, making it un-holy and not-fit for any Godly purpose. The Bible in its entirety is completely true and pure, celebrate recovery is spiritual poison. All the nice, warm experiences of all involved and the best intentions cannot change that truth. Those taking part in this new breed of Christianity must be warned of these misguiding teachings and lies.

1 Peter 2
Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation

In His Grip!
Brian

@Barb
then where is the cross in the rooms? you write “As for AA not being Christian, it never pretended to be. Bill and Dr. Bob were Christians who always read the Bible and prayed for wisdom and guidance in structuring the Fellowship.

They were spritualism which talk and believe to the DEAD/which in turn is a senace.and automatic so if you can point this out to me in the bible where this ok I appreciated it. Also in the bible if you can choose you own GOD of UR own UNDERSTANDING? you are deceived…

I wanted to add one more thing I a huge ex drinker and crack addict so anyone out there tells me that anything other than the bible is the way is being deceived. I went through 12 steps and it for me was an experince that was abusive and shunning anyone in a method or a program say this is the only way: RUN.. I ran back into the word of God in the bible/once you know the truth why would you go to anything else? Anything that is man made? Its all about the numbers# and the $$$ for the church. The bible is the final authority. The way to the truth and to save your soul. and it will teach you how to live. Once you know the truth you will know evil when you see it or experince it. You will know like myself and the person who wrote this article. You got to trust the word of God in the bible and test the spirits. Even the enemy has angels (evil) ones however these are the end of times and many many people will be deceived and God will say I never knew you go. This is why I will never step foot in a CR or AA or any 12 steps because I know the truth and its against Jesus Christ. Remeber where the ORGINAL steps came from. http://www.orangepapaers.com check out for the roots of this cult.

Every is forgeting one VIP aspect here. Where the orginal 12 steps came from. Now matter how you try to twist and distort scripture anything about the 12 steps are not from God. It is called “Spiritualism” Bill Wilson spoke and had senaces and that is how he acquired the steps. The 12 steps are nothing but anti-christ and no matter how you try and put words in and make fool people by using Jesus its still not Christian and never will be. Hey the enemy would be more than happy to take soberity over salvation any day. You cannot defend the truth if you do not know it. The word of God in the Holy bible. Not the God of AA totally different.

If you want to help with total freedom and not keep giving CPR to a past like in any 12 step anything then read and study the word of God in the bible. Yhen you will know the truth. Rick Wrren is not different than anti christ bill wilson.

@bruce
I truly prefer not to point such things out but, for the help of the readers and perhaps yourself, your comment was far to revealing not to address.

sur•ren•der (verb)
[ sə réndər ]
intransitive verb to declare to an opponent that he or she has won so that fighting or conflict can cease

sur•ren•der (noun)
an act of declaring defeat at the hands of an opponent

I did a very thorough word search using ten of the most popular Bible translations and found that the word surrender was used only in the ways as stated above. Could you’re “christ” that you “surrendered” be a christ that is worshiped in the recovery circles? In my studies, The Biblical Christ was not and is not surrendered to; as it relates to Jesus, surrender is a word one learns from recovery, not The Bible. Perhaps you may be confusing a recovery perspective christ with: The Father, Jesus and The Holy Spirit as they actually are, all powerful, abounding in love, truth and grace, if you are indeed a Christian —Χριστιανός (christianos)—meaning “follower of Christ”— as you stated.

Let us all…

Grow in the grace and knowledge of
our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.
2 Peter 3:18

In His Grip!
Brian Kercheval

I am a christian and have attended church my whole life. I started attending CR and AA nine years. I came to a place of total surrender to Christ from the help of both programs and my faith. That has been my experience.

This CR, a man made burden of works/steps is not of The Lord. Nowhere in The Bible does Jesus teach such a thing. The CR faction, via their works, will always fail to accomplish what The Holy Spirit alone achieves. Everything that CR tries to accomplish is found wanting compared to the natural byproduct of The Holy Spirit, “the fruit of the Spirit” is caused exclusively from His anointing, a gift from God and seen only in true believers in Jesus. Therefore, spiritual growth happens because of Gods will and power, according to His grace and purpose, not the CR works/steps, lest any man should boast. This is the difference between those trying to act like a Christian “works and steps” or actually being one “grace and power”.

Until you have been abused and beaten don’t judge those of us who want a release from the hell others have put us in. You have been graced with a life void of addictions…. be thankful and don’t create hell for the rest of us. Please find some cause that really is misleading people and commit yourself to it. Please for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ who died for sinners like me leave us alone to heal. Please!

@Brian
I was with CR and had a sponsor at the group and she never kept in contact with me and never returned my calls. It seemed like they were not really interested. I needed help and finally got the help I needed from a qualified therapist. We do not need these programs as they seem to not help but put a stumbling block in our path. It’s a huge money grab. You have to buy booklets for this program and buy a special cr bible. I would sooner use my own. I have dozen of great bibles here. Sounds cultish to me

I feel very sorry that you need to try and be a great deceiver. You could never know about the life of addiction unless you have lived it. I am sorry for your misguided comments. Forgive Them Father for they no not what they do. May God have mercy on you when you see Him face to face.

Finally, some people who understand God does not need men with Master’s degrees in theology or who think they are Bible experts to build his Kingdom.

@Barb
I am a believer in Jesus Christ for over 30 some odd years. My former brother-in-came to a saving relationship with Christ through AA. He has been involved in ministry for 15 years, and has been sober for 16 years. I do not quite understand why there is so much uproar over AA. Yes, when you accept Jesus Christ as your savior you do become a new person, however that does not mean all of you worldly habits disappear at that time. Remember we are all works in progress. I believe that God has given mankind different kinds of helps in this world, doctors, commentaries on scripture, and even 12 step groups. It is true that some do lose all desire to drink when they accept Christ, but not everyone, and only God knows why. Just like you need help from a teacher for an education, help from a doctor for a heart condition, help from a pastor to learn scripture, I see nothing wrong with getting help for a drinking problem, be it a Christian 12 step program or a secular 12 step program.
God is quite able to use anything in this world to accomplish His purposes for His children. Do you forget that He has used evil people to accomplish some of His goals? I am not familiar with Celebrate Recovery, however if it is a Saddleback program I would be very hesitant of it. Just because one program may be corrupt, that does not mean all Christian Recovery Groups are bad. A great number of people have come to know the Lord through AA, and I don’t think for one minute that God sees them as different from all of His children. I agree whit Barb in what she said. Some of you seem to be quite judgmental, you do know the heart of a person that came to Christ through AA, Celebrate Recovery or any other 12 step group, only God knows their hearts. There are also many who call themselves Christian in the church who may not be we may think we know some by the fruit they produce, but only the Lord knows for sure.
Blessings to all.

To Barb classic AA blaming the person because AA does not work. AA has a 3 % chance of success. Would you get on a plan with a 3 % survival rate? AA is for robots who cannot or will not think for themselves and AA fosters a serious dependency on forever meetings. And way guru cult behavior.

Thank you so much I am right there with you . Anything 12 steps the roots are nothing about Christ or God in the holy bible. Deceived. False and not from Jesus Christ. Just because you put Chirst on it doesnt make it so. Its all about money and people coming to the church that hold these anti christ meetings. Its a number thing. The pastor know it and dont care. The only Church that is not having anything to do with it is Calvary . By action that say alot. To be going to a church with this false teaching will have a price for ourselves by denying the truth we know and going along with this. The roots of 12 steps are based in senaces. LSD automatic writing-Bill wilson had a mistress and left 10% of his royalites to her when he died from smoking himself to death. Bill wilson never claimed to be a christian. It was spirtualism =spiritual =spirtualism speaks to the dead. That is how he got the 12 steps by channeling spirits. When your faith is not Christ guess who your summoning up? The enemy would do anything to lead people from the truth of Jesus Christ. The only one that is clapping for CR is satan/ The leader water down the message of God and that recovery is sin that ru recoverying from is nonsense. You repent and then you are forgiven. Leading people way from the teaching in the holy bible. Rick warren and anyone else that is involed and denying jesus Christ teachings and listening to man way is DEATH.

Anonymity in AA has to do with one thing: protecting the integrity of the program as a whole. If a person drinks again after a period in AA, what does that say to the community? That it doesn’t work. This could discourage others from going. The truth would be that that person did not entirely follow the 12 Steps, not that the Steps don’t “work”. Similarly for anonymity at the level of press, radio and films – people would say it doesn’t work.

We had a terrible suicide in our community: a man who got involved with a woman he met at an AA meeting was extorted by her to the tune of $60K. She threatened to go to his wife. He killed himself over it. The stupid reporter made a point of the AA connection not only at the time, but a year later when the woman was tried and sentenced – same reporter. Now people are thinking it is dangerous to go to AA. Of course, it is not true.

As for AA not being Christian, it never pretended to be. Bill and Dr. Bob were Christians who always read the Bible and prayed for wisdom and guidance in structuring the Fellowship. Many came who had had problems with the Church and would not hear “religious” talk. Rather than turn them away, they decided on “higher power” knowing that many would end up going to church and finding Jesus – and many did. I became a Christian precisely because the 12 Steps prepared me for the message of Jesus; there are many like me who find “the back door to the Kingdom”.

As for the idea that God does not answer prayers of non-believers – hogwash! Alcoholics cannot quit on their own. And don’t tell me Satan is keeping them sober – ludicrous, he has nothing to gain. Most AA’s are loving, generous people. It’s called “common grace” when God answers sincere prayers; I have known too many non-believers whose lives were changed by God removing the desire to drink – very different from getting “help”.

By the way, I have been sober going on 42 years, been married 34 years and raised three children: not a crackpot.

BEATITUDES IN CELEBRATE RECOVERY? by Harry Ward

John Baker the mastermind behind Celebrate Recovery [hereafter CR] is a 30 year member of Alcoholics Anonymous [hereafter AA], therefore there is no difference between the AA & CR steps. It wasn’t until he joined forces with Rick Warren that their claim to the Beatitudes and Biblical comparisons were made and if anyone has read R.W. Purpose-Driven material, I am sure there would be little doubt as to who the mastermind behind this claim would be. I will send you more comments at a later date but in short I would say that all these step groups reveal a total misunderstanding of our SAVIOR`S mission.

“For you were bought at a price;
therefore glorify GOD in your body and in your spirit,
which are GOD`S”…1 Corinthians 6:20

@James Sunduist

You (or whoever is quoted) could probably benefit from further research into the Celebrate Recovery Program and the Churches whom support it which includes most denominations from Southern Baptist to United Methodist to other entities such as the Salvation Army. You would probably find that CR offers a closer approach to the Bible’s way of presenting the Gospel than you experience in the average Church where “playing Christian” and denying sin that exists in your life is encouraged by the need to appear like you’re in Control. Since you offered a critique of each of the 12 steps, I suggest to you the reading of Keith Miller’s “A Hunger for Healing,” which explains thoroughly the connection between Christian Living, Recovery, and the Twelve Steps. CR offers a place to be real honest about what is going on in your life as a whole lot of Christians tend to think that they have it together, but secretly they are struggling with a hurt such as relationship problem or a habit such as pornography. Here are some things you should consider that you seem not to realize.

1. Addicts Know all too well and are that the addiction and (behaviors that go with) are not God’s plan and constitute sin. If anything, the addict’s problem is that he/she does not feel worthy and lacks an understanding of Grace. They need grace emphasized, not sin.

2. Before you preach to people about Damnation, Hellfire, and Brimstone and tell them what horrible sinners they are, do you not think it’s important to show them you care and tell them your story?

3. Your Theological debate about the 12 Steps could easily be countered with more theological debate with use of other scripture if that were the point.

4. Is it inconceivable that God can use Psychology and/or Psychotherapy or anything else he wishes for personal growth/healing that leads people closer to his will for someone’s life and finding him, much in the same way that a Medical Doctor helps someone heal another disease? Sin is a disease. It’s the top disease, we all have it, and there is not a cure but Jesus. That doesn’t mean we are victims, it just means we have the sickness called sin. For many if not most, this sin manifests as an addiction of some sort.

5. Perhaps many at CR are in recovery from the rigid pharisaical-like rule-keeping grace-denying judgmental piously acclaimed Church of their youth that ostracized them for not being good rule keepers and for making mistakes when it came to sex, drugs, and relationships and rejected them much unlike Christ would have because they didn’t play Church very well.

6. If you know anything about Addictions (Chemical, Behavior, or Process Addictions) you would know that if it was that easy to stop, people would not be dying from them every day. Addictions are in the Bible, they are called Idolatries. The point of the law is to show we cannot overcome without total dependence on God. The Twelve Steps Say that loud and clear in steps 1-3. The Church has failed miserably at helping people with addictive behaviors. Perhaps Celebrate Recovery and related programs were born out of the need for Jesus to reach lost people who were not being reached by the traditional church.

WHAT ARE SOME DISTORTIONS AND BIBLICAL INACCURACIES IN THE THE PLACEMENT OF SCRIPTURAL VERSES IN THE CELEBRATE RECOVERY (CR) 12 STEPS PROGRAM?
By Barney Clynch

Step 1 We admitted we were powerless over our addictions and compulsive behaviors, that our lives had become unmanageable.
Romans 7:18 I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out.

Step 1 = step 1 claims people who come to CR are powerless over “addictions” and “compulsive behaviors”. As a Biblical comparison, Romans 7:18 is then cited which uses the adjective “sinful”. There is a contradiciton here. The terms “addictions” and “compulsive behaviors” are psychological terms used by the secular world to be inoffensive to people who are not living right with God. Instead of directing calling it for what it should be “sin”, the step waters it down so that people who come to Celebrate Recovery are not offended by the message of the 12 steps. Obviously, CR figures if they told newcomers they were living in sin, that their sins deserved to send them to eternal hell (the punishment fits the crime so to speak), and that they needed a Savior Jesus to save them from their sins, newcomers would be offended and not stay because “it makes me feel uncomfortable” that you are telling me the truth of God’s word. Additionally, the term “addiction” carries a synonymous term called “disease” in secular 12 step groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous. The apparent motive is two-fold. First, as stated already, the term “addiction” avoids offense to people who are uncomfortable with “sin”. People who desire to come to Christianized “recovery” 12 step groups such as Celebrate Recovery and have a Christian background won’t have to be offended by the term “sin” which they may have heard repeatedly in a traditional church setting. Second, the term “addiction” is also meant to appeal to people who desire to attend CR and who also have a background in being active members of traditionally secular 12 step groups. Since traditional secular 12 step groups use the term “addiction” it also makes them feel comfortable that the term “addiction” has been selected instead of “sin” – AA, NA, SAA, and OA members will believe that they are having “religion” crammed down their throats if step 1 made it clear that they are habitually sinning against a holy God.

Step 2 We came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.
Philippians 2:13 For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose.

Step 2 = Step 2 says, “We came to believe that a ‘power’ greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity”. Celebrate Recovery claims that “Jesus is the only one and true ‘Higher Power’.” Jesus is not a power, but a person, and he is ALL powerful! There are legions of demons that are “higher powers”. In Islam they constantly repeat the prayer: “Allahu Akbar” which literally means, “Allah is Greater”. So, based on the logic of CR Step 1, Allah qualifes as a power ‘greater’! But if he is greater, then Christ is lesser than Allah. New Agers and Christ Consciousness adherents taking CR would make themselves the god or the higher power would be ‘higher self’ or “true self.” To call Jesus Christ, God’s Son, a “Higher Power” is a total misrepresentation of the identity of Jesus Christ. Jesus said in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except by Me.” Jesus is THE WAY to eternal life, not A WAY. There is absolutely no Biblical evidence that supports a claim that Jesus Christ ever had an identity as a “Higher Power”. Furthermore, the mark of many cults is that they will identify Jesus Christ the way they want to perceive Him inaccurately against God’s word and not how He should be accurately identified by the true standard, the Bible. To proclaim that Jesus Christ is a “Higher Power” says that other false gods/prophets are valid ways to receive salvation – that is “there are many roads to heaven, not one.” For instance, person A at a CR meeting states, “My ‘Higher Power’ is Jesus Christ”, but person B objects, “Your ‘Higher Power’ may be Jesus Christ, but I believe _______________ (put in name of false god/prophet/idol: Buddha, Mohammed, Allah, my sponsor, my accountability partners, the group, etc.) is the Highest Power above Jesus.” Invariably, a cult will put something else on an equal footing with Christ. It will have a ritual that is equal to Christ, or it will have a doctrine equal to Christ, or it will have a leader who is equal to Christ. In other words, even if it acknowledges Christ as Savior, it will say that you need something else before you can get into heaven. Cults teach that salvation comes through Christ, plus their little unique way. Some cults do not acknowledge Christ at all. They may make Him coequal with their religious teachers or with certain great men of history. The quickest way to recognize a cult is by its treatment of Jesus.” Notice he said, “it will be a leader who is equal to Christ.” Has anyone noticed how CR groups worship and falsely idolize Rick Warren, pastor of Saddleback church in California where CR first started? Many pastors of churches that started CR programs idolize and place Rick Warren on a “pedestal” instead of giving true worship to the one most deserving of it, that is Jesus Christ, God’s Son.

Step 3 We made a decision to turn our wills and our lives over to the care of God.
Romans 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God — this is your spiritual act of worship.

Step 4 We made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.
Lamentations 3:40 Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the LORD.
The Scripture in and of itself is certainly true, but it can only apply to Christians today because non-Christians were NEVER in the Lord in the first place to return to.
And if they are Christians there is no reason this would not be the first Step…along with all of the other steps simultaneously. By this I do not mean the CR steps themselves are valid Scripturally, but the Scriptures employed in each step should all be employed simultaneously and are NEVER finished until the Christian is glorified.

Step 5 We admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
James 5:16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.

Step 7 Humbly asked Him to remove all our shortcomings.
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

Steps 3, 5, and 7 = Step 3 states, “Made a decision to turn our will and lives over to the care of God.” It sounds valid at the oneset, but then becomes problematic when one carefully examines steps 5 and 7 and their Biblical comparisons. The Biblical comparison for step 3 is Romans 12:1. The Biblical comparison for step 5 is James 5:16 and for step 7 is 1 John 1:9. James 5:16 and 1 John 1:9 are both verses dealing with the issue of confession. When one looks at step 3, to turn one’s will and life over to the care of God appears to directly correlate to receiving eternal life through Jesus Christ. Isn’t confession a requisite to receiving eternal life in Jesus Christ (read Romans 10: 9-10)? Since that is true and Biblical that one must confess his or her sins as part of receiving salvation, then why are verses James 5:16 and 1 John 1:9 appearing several steps below step 3? You cannot have one without the other to receive salvation. For example, if a motorist wants to operate and drive a motor vehicle, he or she must have a valid driver’s license. If that motorist drives with a suspended or invalid driver’s license, he or she can be arrested or fined. If that is so much true in the natural realm, how much more in the spiritual realm one must openly confess sin to receive salvation. Furthermore, is not repentance required to receive eternal life in Jesus Christ (read Luke 13: 1-5; 2 Corinthians 7: 9-10)? Since repentance is a requirement for salvation, why are there no verses stated in step 3 that directly correlates and points to repentance?

There is also a further problem with step 3. Members are asked to turn their wills and lives over to the care of God, not Jesus Christ. Here is the issue at hand. Many people state, “Well, I believe in God, but I will not accept Jesus Christ as the only way to salvation.” That won’t work on God’s terms according to His word. Let us return to step 2 and show the faulty logic behind this statement. Step 2 declares we “came to believe a power”. Doesn’t James 2:20 tell us “even the [higher power] demons believe and shudder”? CR can proclaim Jesus Christ is the one and only “Higher Power”. However, we have some dynamics here which reveals faulty logic. As mentioned in step 2, Jesus Christ is not a “Higher Power”. To identify Him as such says that there are other ways to receive eternal life, not one way. Also, many of the steps are stated in vague terms to appeal to people in secular 12 step groups (AA, NA, etc.) as inoffensive. Therefore, one should safely conclude “God” in step 3 refers to a generic “god” (notice god is spelled with lower case “g” to support theory of any “god”, not just the God of the Bible) in addition to the one true living God of the Bible.

Step 5 has the clause “the exact nature of our wrongs”. Since we have already established that confession is a necessity for eternal life, how come a member must wait until step 5 to confess the “exact nature of our wrongs”? Would it not have been more logical that one would have already confessed the exact nature of wrongs at the point of receiving salvation? Is Celebrate Recovery and other “Christianized” 12 step groups making an impression one must repeatedly confess sin to be forgiven completely? As Christians we confess our sins, but a non-Christian must confess that they are sinners. Do we need to place Jesus Christ back on the cross a second, third, and fourth time because His one time sacrifice on the cross was not enough to forgive sins of those who repent of their sins and trust in Him as Lord and Savior? Listen carefully to Hebrews 10:14, “For by a single offering He has perfected for all time those who are sanctified.”

Additionally, there is a problem with step 7 and its Biblical comparison. Step 7 states, “Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.” According to Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary, the word remove in the verb tense is defined as, “to get rid of; to eliminate”. According to the definition of remove and the statement of step 7, 1 John 1:9 should not be placed as a Biblical comparison. The first part of 1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins”……. Since the author(s) placed 1 John 1:9 as the Biblical comparison and the word “sins” is used in the context, then it is safe to assume the term “shortcomings” could be replaced with the term “sins”. If that is true as it appears, then step 7 could be restated as, “Humbly asked Him to remove our sins.” If someone asks the Lord to remove his or her sins, then isn’t that removal actually repentance? 1 John 1:9 merely points to confession, and we should keep one fact in mind. God will only completely forgive a person’s sins provided not only did that person confess those sins, but he or she also choose to entirely repent of his or her sins. People will be misled into thinking that all they have to do is merely confess by the standard of the Biblical comparison in this step but there is no need for honest, Biblical repentance. We know this has to be true and misleading because no verses directly correlating and relating to Biblical repentance appear in any of the 12 steps (that is verses such as Luke 13: 1-5, 2 Corinthians 7: 9-10, etc. etc.).

Step 6 We were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.
James 4:10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.

Step 6 = step 6 states, “We were entirely ready to have God remove these defects of character.” Step 7 also uses the term “shortcomings”. The terminology makes it apparent that sin is not taken seriously against God’s holiness. To replace the word “sin” with “defects of character” and “shortcomings” makes it obvious CR does not want to offend members with the truth of God’s word. Listen to the following statement on steps 6 and 7 taken from http://www.gotquestions.orgwhich exposes the heresy of replacing “sin” with other softened, inoffensive terminology, “The Bible is clear that sin is not simply a shortcoming or character defect, but a fatal wound which is only cured by the blood of Christ on the cross on our behalf (Ephesians 2:1-5).” And even were one to believe it is biblically proper to invoke the term “shortcomings” and succeed in removing their shortcomings, this implies that man is basically and is already close to perfection, i.e., “I am almost there…but just came up a little short in a few areas of my life…say for example I am 90% there and just need to close the short gap of 10%.” But this premise is fatally flawed because it presumes the other 90% is not also comprised of shortcomings. So the term is completely wrong. The 10% and the 90% are totally depraved and by nature objects of God’s wrath, and NOT good. Jesus Christ said to call no man good, as there are NONE good. So what does CR do introduced a scoring system (see: http://jubileecelebraterecovery.com/category/small-groups/). So you want to keep score? All questions should add up to an infinite score that infinitely separates us from God without Christ crucified. Man-made scoring system leaves even those who gave themselves subjectively a perfect score, fall infinitely short of the Glory of God and are no better off or more equipped whatever score they give themselves! A better term would be all my “long-comings” better yet infinitely long-comings, for all have sin and coming infinitely short of the Glory of God. So they fix their shortcomings? When in fact all they have done is pruned a dead tree…all that is left is a dead stump. In either case they are still dead in their trespasses. God will not lift you up by simply removing some defects in character, he will lift you up when you realize your total character is defective and depraved! And this all assumes that man on his own can get himself “ready”, for the Bible says NONE seek after good. It is God who does the seeking! And why would CR teach participants that they is anything to recover? Even if we are Christians we don’t want to recover ANYTHING of the old man. A New Creation does not want to simply be restored to the point we were before we had a drink of alcohol any more than we could be returned to the state of Adam and Eve before the FALL. Yes cessation of sin will help restore the physical and emotional state…but you will be just as lost and not sanctified. Plus you are in perpetually recovery…you are never DELIVERED in CR.

Step 8 We made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all.
Luke 6:31 Do to others as you would have them do to you.
This step has the same problems as Step four with one more problem. Luke 6:31 emphasizes the good you should do but makes no mention of harm having been done to anyone. There are other Scriptures that govern how to compensate an offended party, such as paying three times the amount defrauded. Has CR EVER taught that they should pay back three times the amount defrauded? And if a non-Christian does this they are still not reconciled to God.

Step 9 We made direct amends to such people whenever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.
Matthew 5:23-24 Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.

Step 9 = Step 9 states, “We made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.” The Biblical comparison for step 9 is Matthew 5: 23-24, “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.” It is very obvious using Matthew 5: 23-24 on step 9 is a complete distortion of obeying the words of Jesus here. Let me explain. The issue of promptness and immediate obedience is emphasized throughout scripture. For example, has anyone noticed the clause “if you remember” is mentioned in verse 23 of Matthew 5? The word “remember” is in the present tense. If that is the case, it appears that Jesus expects us to make proper amends and restitution at the point of a person’s harmful words or actions. Did anyone notice the beginning phrase of verse 25 of Matthew 5? Notice Jesus says, “Come to terms quickly with your accuser……” When should a person come to terms quickly with his or her accuser? Quickly, not procrastinated or delayed action according to Jesus. Also, let us consider the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19: 1-10. If one carefully studies and considers verses 8-9 of this account, it appears Zacchaeus took immediate action to bring appropriate restitution to those he had harmed in the past. Looking at verse 9, it becomes readily apparent his desire to bring restitution was at the initial point of his salvation. If we are seeing a pattern of immediate action in scripture, then how come members must wait until step 9 to make amends/restitution for the harm they have done to others?

Here is the loophole in step 9 and why using Matthew 5: 23-24 is taken out of context. Provided a member is genuinely saved through the blood of Jesus Christ earlier in the program, most people who are unsaved do not understand what it means to honestly respect other people. The problem arises because by step 9, many members have been in the program months and for many others years have passed. Looking back at how the Lord expects us to take immediate action to amend and restitute harm done, is it really Biblical to expect a member to make amends for hurtful actions committed several years beforehand? Additionally, since delayed action is being taken in most every case involving members in 12 step programs, isn’t asking them to make amends at this point in the program making them feel as if they are still not forgiven of their sins against the Lord? Such a step, its placement in the 12 steps, and its Biblical comparison all go back to the issue of the term “recovery”. The word “recovery” constantly points to things done in the past. It sends the message to members they are always going to be responsible for past actions, even those done before entering recovery rooms for meetings. Additionally, if someone came to you several years after harming you and requested to make amends or restitution, would you not have a valid reason to question the honesty and sincerity of the person offering the amends/restitution? While I would have no problem offering forgiveness and pardoning the harm done, I definitely would then proceed to question why the amend/restitution is being offered several years after the fact and was failed to have been offered at the direct timing of the harm initiated. The truth you may ask if someone is genuniely saved by the blood of Jesus Christ? Here it is – read the following scriptures and decide for yourself:

2 Corinthians 5:17, “So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation; EVERYTHING old has passed away; see everything has become new!”
Philippians 3:13, “Beloved, I do not consider I have made it my own; but this one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead.”

If someone is genuniely a new creation in Jesus Christ, is God still going to hold a person’s unsaved past actions against them? Should that person still be required to make amends/restitution, years after the harm was done not to mention, to other people? Likewise, if we are to forget what lies behind and strain forward to what lies ahead as new creations in Jesus Christ, how then can the Lord hold our past against us? Again, I ask, do we need to place Jesus on the cross a second, third, or fourth time because his one time sacrifice for our sins was not enough?!

Finally, where in Scripture is there an exception in repenting or making amends that would injure themselves or others? And even if such an example could be found elsewhere in Scripture it is found NOWHERE in Matthew 5:23-24 that Step 9 sites. The author of CR insert exemptions and exclusions found nowhere in Scripture, so has gone beyond what is written in Scripture. It is true that years can go by without repentance, particularly when the person is not even a Christian yet, so it is a natural response to then want to go back and repent to or make amends to the offended party (parties)…and where possible this would be good to do. The offended might not receive your repentance, but you would not have caused harm to him by doing so.

Step 11 We sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and power to carry that out.
Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.

Again, which God? What kind of meditation? Biblical or Eastern mystical meditation?

Step 12 Having had a spiritual experience as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to others and to practice these principles in all our affairs.
Galatians 6:1 Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.

Two major problems here. 1. The Scriptures listed were NEVER intended to be sequential steps, so by practicing and requiring the participant to follow them as steps will result in a spiritual experience all right, but which spirit? 2. Practicing these steps as principles is a works religion, pyramid scheme and it is not the principles that Christ taught that ultimately matter but rather the Person that we follow and obey…otherwise it is simply the law that Paul twice condemned in Galatians.

Steps 11 and 12 = When one reads my critique on Celebrate Recovery (http://www.exposingcelebraterecovery.org), I mention how Celebrate Recovery warmly embraces and openly accepts the belief systems of secular 12 step programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous. AA needs to be marked for what is, a false religion based on the occult and works. In fact, this point has already been established earlier in this critique of the 12 steps. It is important to reemphasize this point as it distorts and harms the purpose of steps 11 and 12 to truly have a Biblical purpose. Step 11 states, “We sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and power to carry that out.” Step 12 states, “Having had a spiritual experience as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to others and to practice these principles in all our affairs.” Read what the feedback from http://www.gotquestions.org says about steps 11 and 12, “Step 11 encourages alcoholics to seek “through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him.” Praying to, or meditating on, any god other than the true God of the Bible through Christ, the Mediator, is of no spiritual value. The “spiritual awakening” referred to in Step 12 does not lead to true spiritual life, except for those who have come to Christ by faith. Even if the alcoholic sobers up and remains so throughout his/her lifetime, only faith in Christ for salvation from sin will ensure an eternity of peace and glory in heaven.”

While it is understood there are people who profess to be Christians in Celebrate Recovery, if they are false converts, any prayers offered to the Lord will only be in vain and “hit the ceilings”. Listen to what we are told in John 9:31, “We know that God does not listen to sinners, but he does listen to one who worships Him and obeys His will.” God may hear the prayers of unsaved people, but He will not answer those prayers. As mentioned in my critique of CR (www.exposingcelebraterecovery.org), there are many people in CR who are false converts. They may profess to be Christians when in actuality, they were never saved in the first place. Jesus made it clear we would know them by their fruit (Matthew 7:20). My point with steps 11 and 12. Even if someone’s motive in CR is to pray to the God of the Bible, if that person is a false convert and has not been genuinely saved by Christ’s blood, any effort to pray or to “evangelize” the 12 steps to those caught in addictive behaviors will be of no value.

A point on step 12 – the Biblical comparison for step 12 is Galatians 6:1, “Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.” If step 12 has to do with the issue of evangelism and carrying the message to those still lost in sin, why is Galatians 6:1 the only verse that is used as a Biblical comparison? I will tell you the reason why. This passage in Galatians screams of both the teller and the hearer being Christians. You can’t restore a non-Christian. What would you restore them to? Celebrate Recovery, just like any other 12 step group regardless of whether it is secular or “Christianized”, places such a heavy emphasis on accountability to other people that accountability to the Lord is basically non-existent. People in CR and other 12 step groups are so focused on holding each other accountable, that there is literally no fear of God available in 12 step meetings and individual lives outside of meetings. So my point – since that is the case, it is only natural and understanding that Galatians 6:1 has been selected as the distorted Biblical comparison to make it clear and re-emphasize their belief system, “You answer to us, not ultimately answer to the God of the Bible.” If CR truly believed in the Biblical concept of evangelism, other verses would have been cited related to Biblical evangelism such as Matthew 10: 32-33, Matthew 28: 18-20, Mark 16: 15-20, and Romans 1:16. Here is the issue at hand. People need to understand that God simply is using people as instruments of His love to restore people, not the people themselves. If the people themselves could restore those lost and dying in sin, then Jesus Christ would not have needed to die on the cross for all sins of humanity. The initial as well as ultimate goal is not be restored, but reconciled to God through the Blood of Jesus Christ our Savior, the only means of salvation and sanctification. Note too in the CR citation of Galatians 6:1…they omit the rest of Paul’s point of Galatians which was to condemn Judaizers for trying to put Christians back under the lack, so he twice condemned (cursed) them for doing exactly what CR teaches in their works religion of steps and principles you must follow, and in order! So Paul is effectively condemning CR for the same reasons he condemned the Judaizers.

Some closing statements on the 12 steps and their Biblical comparisons – If using 12 step recovery programs and the 12 steps are “Biblical”, then explain to me how the first Christians in the book of Acts survived without 12 step programs and without the use of human psychology? Also, if “working” the 12 steps are truly Biblical, then how come there are repeated contradictions in taking verses out of context in the Biblical comparisons for many of the steps? It would be wise for us to heed the warning from the Lord about promoting any false gospel movement that does not align itself with God’s word. We are warned in Galatians 1: 8-9, “But even if we or an angel from heaven should proclaim to you a gospel contrary to what we proclaimed to you, let that one be accursed! As we have said before, so now I repeat, if anyone proclaims to you a gospel contrary to what you received, let that one be accursed!” (some translations have the terms “eternally condemned” instead of accursed)

Final question, is there a Celebrate Recovery Program for victims and people recovering from Celebrate Recovery?

You must remember, the Church is not a building, a denomination of religion but the people. Regradless of any opinion about Rick Warren, God is using Celebrate Recovery as part of the body of Christ all over the place to bring people into a non-judgemental atmosphere of like followers of Christ or people who want to be free and just accepted as they come (The way Jesus did it) These people may have never darkened the door step of a traditional church building or religion otherwise. The meaning of each of the twelve steps is exemplified all throughout the Bible if you were to study that. Telling an addict or someone who struggles with compulsive behaviors to just confess their sins, pray, and read the Bible to get better demonstrates a gross ignorance of the reality of bondage, the sin
nature, physiological aspects, and the historical Church’s well-intentioned but ineffective approach to addiction. Jesus went where the people were poor in spirit and not alright with their own knowledge of how to overcome. Celebrate Recovery offers the same approach. Celebrate Recovery Attendees are often very active servants in the larger Church their program is located in. To criticize this program without understanding what you are saying. The Christian life is always a life of recovery from the sinful nature that lives within us, the fight that goes on in this life between the old man and new man. Some believers main problem is walking around pretending like the new man is all that they ever have to deal with, not being humble, thinking there’s nothing Jesus would have us do after the salvation experience to further his kingdom.

To Chuck: Seriously 15 years in RECOVERY… you could have saved yourself a lot of time by confessing your sin to God and accept the blood of Jesus, that plus absloutely nothing else and you would have become a new man in Jesus in a heartbeat. I went to CR for a while and if you are saying anonymous is not used in these meetings well I know it is. CR is fast becoming the cult for folks who would rather rehash, rehearse and relive their past rather than asking Him for forgiveness and a new life in Christ.
You might not be a “fan” of Warren but you have for 15 years taught his theories. Just read the Bible and not the twisted to fit CR bible either. A real one.

Sorry dude, a little off base here. Anonymous is used in the secular world. CR teaches James 5:16 to confess our sins to each other, and pray for each other so we can heal. Quite obviously you have not had the gift of being stripped and rebuilt. I am not a fan of Rick Warren or his future goals. I have though seen the good that comes from helping others heal through this program. There is no better ministry in a church. It is the most honest meetings a person can find in the church. I have been a leader for 15 years in this program and can tell you at the churches I was at not one time did the pastor ever visit our meetings. True healing was going on. I think the point is today that churches love to teach and not promote how to heal through Jesus Christ.