Addicts often feel buried under the weight of guilt and shame. Can you struggle actively with addiction and still be accepted by God?
Talking Points:
- All sin is entangling and addictive. Jesus forgives addiction the same way he forgives any sin. John 8:34, Hebrews 12:1
- Obvious sins are not more sinful than subtle sins. They’re just harder to overcome. Jeremiah 17:9-10
- The real question is whether you’re genuinely sorry for your addiction. Worldly sorrow is a dangerous substitute for godly sorrow. Hebrews 12:2-3
Discussion Questions:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Read John 8:34. Explain why you agree or disagree that we are all slaves to sin.
- Read Jeremiah 17:9-10. According to these verses, how does God judge? Are people who simply have sin in their minds or hearts any more worthy in God’s eyes than those who struggle with an addiction? Explain.
- Is repentance more than confession? Give some examples of what repentance looks like when it is lived out practically.
- Hebrews 12:1 gives some good advice on how to repent and avoid entangling sin. What can help us to keep from being sidetracked by our sinful nature?
- Hebrews 12:2-3 teaches us what Jesus endured to make us righteous in God’s eyes. How can focusing on Jesus motivate you in your struggle against sin? What are some practical ways to do that? Make a list.
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
