Question from a reader:

Randy, you wrote:

Many religions offer non-stop programs of self-reformation, forever walking the treadmill, putting in the miles but never finishing the work. God invites us to “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost! Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy?” (Isaiah 55:1-2, NIV).

I’m confused. Are you saying that Christ-centered 12-step programs for recovery from addictions are not good?

Answer from Randy Alcorn:

No, that’s not what I’m saying at all. If they are Christ-centered, then they are good! I’m all for recovery from addictions and things that help us in that regard. I’m talking about the things religions do that call people to never-ending self-reform, always striving towards making ourselves better, as opposed to calling upon the promises and power of Jesus to empower us to do good and bring honor to Him from hearts transformed by the miracle of grace.