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#351 - On the 6th Step of Christmas... (12 Steps) | Mark E. Shaw
#351 - On the 6th Step of Christmas... (12 Steps) | Mark E. Shaw
#351 - On the 6th Step of Christmas... (12 Steps) | Mark E. Shaw
Friday 19th December 2025
Dr. Mark E. Shaw examines the 6th step of the 12 Steps through a biblical lens in this festive podcast episode.
5 minutes
Informative
Inspiring
Compassionate
Encouraging
Honest
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Religion & Spirituality
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Family Recovery from Addiction
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Get the buttons here!A Festive Take on Step Six: Faith vs. 12 Steps
Episode Overview
- Critically examines the 6th step of the 12 Steps programme.
- Challenges the concept of 'defects of character' from a biblical perspective.
- Encourages active participation in spiritual growth.
- Discusses how struggles with sin can lead to humility.
- Highlights the importance of taking action as per biblical teachings.
"You've got to do something here. Put off and put on. Put to death. Kill it."
Curious about how others navigate their sobriety journey? In this episode of The Addiction Connection Podcast, Dr. Mark E. Shaw takes a deep dive into the 6th step of the 12 Steps programme, comparing it to biblical teachings. With a special twist for the holiday season, listeners are treated to a critical analysis of the '12 Steps of Christmas,' where Shaw challenges the traditional understanding of character defects and how they align with biblical principles.
As the Nocatee Campus Pastor of Counseling at First Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Florida, Shaw brings his extensive experience and knowledge to the table, questioning whether the concept of 'defects of character' truly holds water when weighed against scripture. The discussion is as engaging as it is thought-provoking, as Shaw highlights the need for action in spiritual growth.
Instead of waiting passively for divine intervention, he encourages active participation in one's own spiritual journey, referencing Colossians 3:5 to underscore the importance of putting sinful behaviours to death. Shaw's approach is not only analytical but also compassionate, acknowledging that struggles with sin can lead to greater humility and reliance on God. This episode is perfect for those interested in exploring how faith and recovery intersect, offering a fresh perspective on well-trodden paths.
Whether you're sceptical of the 12 Steps or looking for a new way to integrate faith into your recovery journey, Shaw's insights offer plenty to ponder. Why not take a moment to reflect on your own beliefs and how they guide your path to sobriety?