Addictions: A Banquet in the Grave: Finding Hope in the Power of the Gospel by Edward T. Welch

320 pages | $16.99 | Series: Resources for Changing Lives | Published: 2001

Summary: Scripture reveals addicts’ true condition: like guests at a banquet thrown by “the woman Folly,” they are already in the grave. (Prov. 9:13–18) Can we not escape our addictions? Following Jesus, we have “immense hope that God can give power so that we are no longer mastered by the addiction.”

About the Author:

Edward T. Welch (PhD, University of Utah) serves both the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation (CCEF) and Westminster Theological Seminary. At CCEF, he is director of counseling and academic dean, as well as a counselor and faculty member. At Westminster, he is professor of practical theology. He is author of Blame It on the Brain and When People Are Big and God Is Small and has contributed to several other books and journals, including the Journal of Psychology and Christianity.

What Others Say About This Book:

“One of the most helpful books providing practical theology on addictions. Welch’s assessment of addictions as a problem that proceeds from the heart, involving issues of worship and idolatry, is central to helping people grow and change. This is vital reading for church leaders, and for friends and family desiring to help those struggling with addictions.” — John Freeman, Harvest USA

“Destroys the myth that addiction is a disease and sin is a sickness. Welch shows that the hopeless cycle of ‘sickness, recovery, and relapse’ must be replaced with the biblical view of sin, salvation, and sanctification. As a pastor, biblical counselor, and redeemed (not recovering) ex-heroin addict, I believe Welch has given every pastor, parishioner, and anyone caught in the bondage of idolatry/addiction a biblical road map to lasting freedom.” — Peter Garich, Dayspring Center for Biblical Counseling

“Biblically sound, practical, filled with Christ-like compassion. . . . This much-needed book offers real hope and the promise of victory in Jesus to those struggling with addiction.” — Robert A. Emberger, Whosoever Gospel Mission