I saw an article in a secular online journal recently that asked this question about sexual addiction. It referenced a recent study that found that sexual addiction did not likely exist as a medical condition. As a Christian counselor, I have been skeptical of this label for a long time and would like to share my perspective on this question.
We read periodically of high profile celebrities who have sought treatment for this affliction. Some number of counseling clients come into our office and claim the same malady. It’s curious that the label of sexual addiction seems primarily attached to people who are married! If a single person has a lot of sexual partners, does that mean they are a sex addict?
The article concludes that people may have a clinical mental illness even though it may not be a medical mental illness (italics added). Terminology like that typically means they do not have a drug or program to treat it with. My personal belief is that those often represent spiritual issues that need to be addressed with the word and power of God!
As a Christian counselor and deliverance minister I have had the opportunity to minister to many who have strongholds in the areas of sexuality. We have seen many who contest, as the secular article confirms, that the addiction “made me do it”. It can be seen as an excuse that gives them license to continue because they are powerless to control it.
One of the reasons Jesus came was to destroy the works of the devil (1 John 3:8). His death on the cross and resurrection secured that victory and now his church is to enforce and implement that. There is a victory for people in the areas of depression, fear, anxiety and yes, all types of addiction and perversion. Christians should not word curse themselves with labels such as “addict” or “I am ADD” etc. We should declare what God and the bible says about us. Check out this “Who I Am In Christ” handout.
A commitment to follow Christ, competent deliverance ministry and ongoing discipleship and Christian counseling can help someone get back and stay on the narrow road that leads to life (Matt 7:12-14).
Are you struggling in this area of sexuality or know someone who does? If they profess Christ, or are williing to do so, encourage them to seek competent Christian help that should include deliverance ministry.
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