Our Biblical Beliefs Concerning Addictions
What we believe motivates everything we do at Hope House with the men God places in our care. Here are some key truths we embrace...
1. Addiction is a manifestation of the slavery of sin, not a sickness.
Romans 6:16: "Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?"
We believe that addiction is a form of slavery to sin and the desires of the flesh. It is not a disease or a weakness, but a reflection of man's separation from God. However, the Bible teaches that Christ came to free captives and break the chains of sin. We believe that as long as a person does not recognize the guilt of his sin, he cannot be transformed by Christ. Therefore, we will speak in Biblical terms at Hope House, referring to ourselves as being sinful and not as sick.
2. Christ is the only one who can truly free a man from his addiction.
John 8:36: "If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed."
We believe that while self-discipline and physical rehabilitation have their place, only Jesus Christ can bring true and lasting freedom from addiction. Without His transforming power, any attempt at overcoming addiction is incomplete.
3. Spiritual transformation is essential for true recovery.
2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."
We believe that true recovery is not just abstinence, but a complete transformation of heart and mind through the work of the Holy Spirit. In Christ, men not only put away their destructive habits, but are made new creatures. From that new identity in Christ, new behaviors and decisions spring forth for the glory of God.
4. God offers forgiveness and restoration for addicts.
1 John 1:9: "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
We believe that no matter how deep the sin and addiction, God is willing to forgive and restore those who genuinely repent and seek His grace.
5. The Christian community plays a vital role in the recovery process.
Galatians 6:2: "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ."
We believe that recovery should not be done in isolation. The Church and the community of believers are essential to support, edify and accompany the addict in his spiritual growth process, providing an environment of love, grace and accountability. We offer a ministry called "Hope Group" therefore, to every man, to be accountable to others, and to receive mutual support.
6. Dependence on God is the key to overcoming temptation.
1 Corinthians 10:13: "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it."
We believe that every addict can resist temptation by relying on God. He does not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear, and He always offers a way of escape. That is why we often say at Hope House, "100% responsible. 0 excuses."
7. God’s purpose for man is abundant life.
John 10:10: "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it abundantly."
We believe that addiction steals the life that God desires for each person. Christ came not only to save us from sin, but to give us a full and abundant life, free from the chains of addiction and with a clear purpose in Him.
8. The call to holiness is the destiny of every Christian man.
1 Peter 1:16: "because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy."
We believe that recovery in Christ is not just a return to "normalcy," but a call to holiness. God transforms men from addicts into saints, empowered to live according to His will.
With these Scripture-based beliefs, Hope House distinguishes itself as a rehabilitation center that not only addresses addiction from a physical or social perspective, but from a Biblical perspective, offering hope and transformation through the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.