Sin, Idolatry, & Powerlessness: Step 1 (Message 1: Breathing Under Water)

"Breathing Under Water" is a new series (based on a book by Richard Rohr) that explores Christian spirituality and the 12-Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. In this first message, we explore the link between addiction and sin, revealing how these dynamics often trap individuals in self-destructive cycles. Paradoxically, it's by acknowledging our powerlessness that we find the strength to seek solutions beyond ourselves. Whether you or a loved one grapple with addiction or some kind of unwanted behavior, join us on this transformative journey toward healing and recovery.

Video, "Nuggets," used with permission from the copyright holder, Studio FILM BILDER:    • Nuggets  .

Book: Richard Rohr, "Breathing Under Water: Spirituality and the Twelve Steps" (Franciscan Media 2011).

Ego in Contemplative Christianity:
In the Christian contemplative tradition, the term ego describes a way of thinking and being in the world that is driven by a compulsion to control. It is a false self that sees everything through the lens of its own personal hurts, needs, and memories, making it self-centered, defensive, judgmental, and easily wounded. When ego is in charge, we take things personally, and when offended we feel driven to retaliate tit-for-tat. It construes life as a zero-sum game in which there are winners and losers, then strives for superiority, obsessing over achievement and public perception. Ego is dualistic, painting the world in black and white extremes. As such, it is arrogant, riddled with illusions, and blinded to deep truth. Ego causes us to constantly compare ourselves with others, is neurotically self-reliant, and must always be in control. I must control my thinking and feeling, as well as my actions, my image, and how other people see me. I must also control the thoughts, feelings, and actions of others. I must control my environment to feel safe. I must control every aspect of life to meet my own needs, fix my own problems, and secure my own future.

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Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds
Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL)

Connect with Pastor Mark:
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