Wayne Shepherd talks with Jonathon Seidl about his alcohol addiction and the transforming power of Jesus to deliver him daily from his addictive behavior. (click for more...)
Website and book: https://www.jonseidl.com
Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic
Key Themes
God only uses sinners: Jonathon emphasizes that aside from Jesus, everyone God uses is imperfect.
Shame and vulnerability: He initially resisted going public with his alcoholism due to fear of judgment in Christian circles.
Sobriety journey: Now over two years sober; life is richer, though not easier. Alcohol wasn’t the problem but the solution he used to escape deeper issues.
Root Issues & Turning Point
Alcoholism tied to childhood wounds of rejection and abandonment.
Turning point came on an anniversary trip where his wife confronted him—she wanted him to address why he drank, not just stop drinking.
Four Steps to Break Free
Abiding in Christ – Developing an experiential, daily walk with Jesus (scripture, journaling, stillness).
Finding true identity – Seeing oneself in Christ, not in addiction or failure.
Radical vulnerability – Going beyond surface-level honesty, sharing deeply with trusted biblical community.
Obedience – Trusting and following God’s direction, even when it feels small or uncomfortable.
Supports & Safeguards
Weekly Christian therapy (counselor Gina) helped uncover root causes.
Biblical community and small group provided accountability and openness.
Close sobriety group (texts/emails) for immediate honesty when tempted.
Practices radical vulnerability—naming struggles before they escalate.
Broader Lessons
Addiction often stems from escapism, not just the substance.
Messy sanctification: the Christian journey involves ongoing struggles, not just “minor sins.”
Scripture shows God working through deeply flawed people (David, Abraham, etc.).
Encouragement: there is room in the church for imperfect stories and God’s redemption.
Aims to help others struggling with addiction, break stigma, and point to biblical hope.
NEXT WEEK: Ken Isaacs, Samaritan's Purse
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