Send us a text

ISMS that Poison the Soul
Alcoholism | Part 2
Senior Pastor Keith Stewart
May 4, 2025

When you think of addiction, if all you can picture is a homeless man passed out in a drunken stupor, then you don’t really understand addiction at all. Did you know that 3 out of 4 alcoholic men and women are married and still living at home? 95% of them still have jobs or own their business. In fact, only 3-5% of alcoholics ever reach skid row level. The truth is addiction often wears a familiar face or it may even be the reflection you see in the mirror. It’s time we spoke truth into a topic filled with unfair stereotypes and misunderstanding. It’s past time for people to know there is hope and healing for anyone caught up in addiction.

__________

Discussion Questions:

1. In the first half of today’s message, Pastor Keith shared three stories to illustrate God’s heart for the poor and oppressed; the shepherds, the leper and the woman who anointed the feet of Jesus. What were your main takeaways from the three stories? Could you put yourself in the shoes of any of these marginalized groups? What comfort or encouragement is found in these stories as it relates to addicts?
2. Do we really see people as people? Or more importantly, do we see people as God sees them? What groups of people today are still being marginalized? Why do people struggle with seeing the value, worth and dignity of others? If someone struggles with seeing others as God does, what would you suggest to them that might help them see what God does? How does the way we see people affect the way we treat people?

3. Why do we stereotype alcoholics? When the vast majority of alcoholics and other addicts are actually living in homes (sometimes as our neighbors), holding down jobs, and are able to manage appearances to most people who surround their life – knowing all of this – why do we associate alcoholism with only the worst-case scenarios? Have you ever personally known an alcoholic or addict?

4. All of us are broken people. No one is immune from that. We all have our weaknesses, Achilles’ heel, our vulnerability to certain types of sins. Why do people often act as if they are better than others simply because they sin differently? What’s the best remedy to that sort of behavior or attitude?

5. Confession helps to heal us. Being honest with God, ourselves and others brings many practical benefits. Can you name one or several? What experiences have you personally had with confessing to others your greatest struggles or failures? If someone is afraid to open up about such matters, what cautions would you give to them? What encouragement would you give to them?