theaddictionconnection

The Addiction Connection Podcast

theaddictionconnection

  • #352 - On the 7th Step of Christmas... (12 Steps) | Mark E. Shaw

#352 - On the 7th Step of Christmas... (12 Steps) | Mark E. Shaw

Saturday 20th December 2025

Explore Mark E. Shaw's critical take on the 7th step of the 12 Steps programme and its alignment with Christian beliefs.
7 minutes
Inspiring
Informative
Honest
Engaging
Motivational

About this podcast

The Addiction Connection Podcast
Author:
theaddictionconnection
Overview:
Categories:
Religion & Spirituality
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Family Recovery from Addiction
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Creative Recovery Journeys
Links:
Visit site
Rounded Button Dark
Do you want to link to this podcast?
Get the buttons here!

A Festive Critique: The 7th Step of Christmas

Episode Overview

  • The 12 Steps can be misleading from a Christian perspective.
  • Generic spirituality in recovery programmes can lead people astray.
  • True freedom from addiction comes through faith in Jesus Christ.
  • Sanctification is an ongoing process, not a one-time event.
  • The episode offers a festive twist with a recovery-themed song.
"A false God is impotent. They're not powerful like the one true God, the Lord Jesus Christ."
Get ready to be moved by a fresh take on the traditional '12 Days of Christmas' song as it collides with the world of addiction recovery. Mark E. Shaw, alongside hosts CJ McMurry and Jim Quigley, presents a critical examination of the 12 Steps programme, especially focusing on the seventh step. Mark argues that while many view the 12 Steps as a path to recovery, they can be misleading from a Christian perspective.
With his unique blend of humour and seriousness, Mark critiques the notion of a 'higher power' in the 12 Steps, challenging its compatibility with Christian teachings. The episode doesn't shy away from controversy as Mark passionately discusses how the programme's generic approach to spirituality can lead people astray from true Christian doctrine. He emphasises the importance of seeking sanctification through Christ rather than relying on an undefined higher power.
The podcast also features a creative rendition of the '12 Days of Christmas' with a recovery twist, adding a sprinkle of festive cheer to the serious subject matter. Mark's message is clear: true freedom from addiction comes through faith in Jesus Christ, not through generic spiritual practices. For those curious about how faith intersects with recovery, this episode offers a thought-provoking perspective.
Whether you're navigating your own journey or supporting someone else, Mark's insights provide a different lens through which to view addiction recovery. So, are you ready to rethink what it means to find freedom from addiction?
alcoholfree.com
Published by The Mindful Drinking Company Limited
4 Providence Court, Pynes Hill, Exeter, Devon, EX2 5JL, England
Registered in England and Wales.
Company Number: 1195057. Vat Number: GB320915135.
Registered address as above.
© Copyright 2005-2025 The Mindful Drinking Company Limited.
All Rights Reserved.
alcoholfree.com is a participant in the Amazon Associates Programme, an affiliate advertising programme designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.co.uk. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.