What Does the Bible Say About Addiction?
What Does the Bible Say About Addiction? The Bible teaches that believers should not be controlled by anything except the Holy Spirit, and offers freedom through Christ from every form of bondage.
Key verse: John 8:36 (KJV)
The Bible teaches that believers should not be controlled by anything except the Holy Spirit, and offers freedom through Christ from every form of bondage.
The Bible teaches that believers should not be controlled by anything except the Holy Spirit, and offers freedom through Christ from every form of bondage.
"If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed." — John 8:36 (KJV)
Meaning
Plain-language explanation
In Context
Surrounding KJV scripture
Related Verses
Cross-reference scriptures
The Biblical Answer
While the word 'addiction' doesn't appear in Scripture, the concept of being enslaved to desires runs throughout. Paul wrote: 'All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any' (1 Corinthians 6:12). Jesus declared: 'If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed' (John 8:36). Peter warns that 'of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage' (2 Peter 2:19). The Bible offers hope for freedom through the Spirit's power (Romans 8:2), renewed minds (Romans 12:2), accountability (James 5:16), and the truth of God's Word (John 8:32). Recovery aligns with biblical principles: admitting powerlessness, surrendering to God, making amends, and living one day at a time with the Holy Spirit's help.
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Key Scripture References
"If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed."
"All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any."
"Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage."
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Related Questions
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Self-control (temperance) is a fruit of the Spirit and a discipline essential for godly living, resisting temptation, and honoring God with our bodies.
What Does the Bible Say About Temptation?
The Bible teaches that temptation is universal but not from God, and He always provides a way of escape for believers who resist.
What Does the Bible Say About Love?
The Bible defines love not as a feeling but as a sacrificial choice — modeled perfectly by God's gift of His Son.
How Do You Forgive Others According to the Bible?
Biblical forgiveness means releasing bitterness and choosing not to hold someone's offense against them — just as God in Christ forgave us.
What Does the Bible Say About Money?
The Bible doesn't condemn money itself but warns against the love of money and teaches generosity, contentment, and wise stewardship.
Deep Dive Commentary
For a more in-depth study, read our verse-by-verse commentary:
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Read it in context
The answer above sits inside John. The 365-day chronological plan reads it in the order the events happened.
Read John on day 302 of the chronological Bible reading planKeep the verses to hand
Every verse quoted in “What Does the Bible Say About Addiction?” comes from the King James Version, free to download and print.
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