First Readers, First Steps

The “first readers” of the Twelve Steps were a group of people seeking recovery and reconciliation—mostly looking for answers to questions about why they had lived life in a way that brought problems to their family. They were men and women in search of guidance for how to reconcile with one another and God, and a way forward together. The “first readers” of Hebrews—the book in your Bible between Philomen and James (in the New Testament)—were of a similar mindset. 

The author of Hebrews points out the old covenant rituals of the past that needed to be replaced by the coming of Christ for our salvation, 

Hebrews 9:1–2 (CSB)  

1 Now the first covenant also had regulations for ministry and an earthly sanctuary. 2 For a tabernacle was set up, and in the first room, which is called the holy place, were the lampstand, the table, and the presentation loaves.  

The author also informs the “first readers” of the source for true reconciliation, and that faith in the source—the Great High Priest—leads to salvation and reconciliation with community, family, and God, 

Hebrews 10:11–14 (CSB)  

11 Every priest stands day after day ministering and offering the same sacrifices time after time, which can never take away sins. 12 But this man, after offering one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God. 13 He is now waiting until his enemies are made his footstool. 14 For by one offering he has perfected forever those who are sanctified.  

The twelve steps are not a ritual, they are an exercise in faith, they push those of us seeking recovery to live under principles that are Biblical by way of faith in the source—the Great High Priest. Working the steps with a sponsor and in an accountability community is challenging and requires faith because the next step is typically into an unknown place that may be uncomfortable. The call to health and sobriety—through the twelve steps—is like the call to Christians by the author of Hebrews. Faith in the Great High Priest—calls for perseverance in challenge—and leads to the blessing of knowing him and reconciled relationships. 

Hebrews 9:14 (CSB)  

14 how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, cleanse our consciences from dead works so that we can serve the living God?  

We are studying Principle 2 right now on Monday’s—you are invited to join us. Continue to read Hebrews—it is a rich resource for faith and recovery. 

Principle 2: “Earnestly believe that God exists, that I matter to him, and that he has the power to help me recover.”