What Does the Bible Say About Addiction?
What Does the Bible Say About Addiction? While the Bible doesn't use the word 'addiction,' it warns against bondage to anything other than God and promises freedom through Christ.
Key verse: 1 Corinthians 6:12 (KJV)
While the Bible doesn't use the word 'addiction,' it warns against bondage to anything other than God and promises freedom through Christ.
While the Bible doesn't use the word 'addiction,' it warns against bondage to anything other than God and promises freedom through Christ.
"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 (KJV)
Meaning
Plain-language explanation
In Context
Surrounding KJV scripture
Related Verses
Cross-reference scriptures
The Biblical Answer
Scripture addresses the root issues behind addiction. 1 Corinthians 6:12 teaches, 'All things are lawful unto me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.' Being 'under the power' of a substance or behavior is the essence of addiction. Proverbs 20:1 warns, 'Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.' Galatians 5:1 declares, 'Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.' Romans 6:14 promises, 'Sin shall not have dominion over you.' The Bible presents addiction as a form of slavery from which Christ can deliver. Recovery involves confession (1 John 1:9), community (James 5:16), renewed thinking (Romans 12:2), and dependence on the Holy Spirit's power.
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Key Scripture References
"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."
"If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed."
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Related Questions
What Does the Bible Say About Drinking Alcohol?
The Bible does not prohibit alcohol entirely but strongly condemns drunkenness and urges wisdom and self-control.
What Is Sin According to the Bible?
Sin is any thought, word, or action that falls short of God's perfect standard — essentially, missing the mark of His holiness.
What Is Repentance?
Repentance is a genuine change of mind and heart about sin, turning away from it and toward God.
What Is the Unforgivable Sin?
The unforgivable sin, or blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, is the persistent, willful rejection of the Spirit's testimony about Jesus Christ.
Why Did Jesus Have to Die on the Cross?
Jesus died as a substitutionary sacrifice to pay the penalty for human sin and reconcile humanity to God.
Deep Dive Commentary
For a more in-depth study, read our verse-by-verse commentary:
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God Promises to Forgive Your Sins
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Hark! the Herald Angels Sing
Charles Wesley • 1739
Read it in context
The answer above sits inside 1 Corinthians. The 365-day chronological plan reads it in the order the events happened.
Read 1 Corinthians on day 324 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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