Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic

A Candid Conversation on Drinking, Addiction, and How to Break Free

by: Jonathon M. Seidl

• Format

  Paperback

  ISBN

  9780800747305

  Dimensions

  5.5 x 8.5

  Pub. Date

  Oct 2025

  SRP

  $19.99

  Carton Quantity

  30

  Number of pages

  256

  Buy

• Format

  E-Book

  ISBN

  9781493451548

  Pub. Date

  Oct 2025

  SRP

  $19.99

  Buy

About

There's hope for alcoholics who become Christians--and for Christians who become alcoholics

While the Christian community loves stories of salvation, it struggles with stories of sanctification--the often messy journey of becoming like Jesus. As a result, many who stumble in their faith walk are mired in shame and remain stuck doing what they don't want to do, especially when it comes to one of society's biggest obsessions: alcohol.

In this brutally honest yet unashamedly hopeful book, Jonathon M. Seidl vividly details his spiral into disordered drinking--from Christian to alcoholic, not the other way around--and shares the four-step process he eventually used to break free. Along the way, he addresses the roots of our addictions, exposes trauma, reframes the term alcoholic, and offers biblical support for why Christians aren't immune to ongoing sin struggles. It's the radically vulnerable book for anyone who has ever wanted to taste freedom but has found it elusive.


"I have watched hundreds of people surrender to Jesus, love him, and have a hard time breaking free of certain indwelling sins. I'm grateful for books like Jon's. It reads like real life to me: grimy, hard . . . honest. The Lord is faithful to deliver us. Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic is a testimony to that faithfulness."--Matt Chandler, lead pastor of The Village Church

"This book tackles the 'quiet part out loud' that so many of us sitting in the pew on Sundays wish someone would talk about. No matter if you're questioning your drinking habits in this alcohol-centric society or if you know it's something that needs to change--this book is for you."--Jenn Kautsch, author of Look Alive, Sis and founder of the SoberSis community

---

Endorsements

"For over twenty years as pastor of The Village Church, I have had a front-row seat to the messy, slow process of sanctification in the lives of the saints. I have witnessed the miraculous breakthrough where addiction or anger seems to supernaturally lift and never return, but I intentionally used the words miraculous and supernatural because I have watched hundreds of people surrender to Jesus, love him, and have a hard time breaking free of certain indwelling sins. I'm grateful for books like Jon's. It reads like real life to me: grimy, hard . . . honest. The Lord is faithful to deliver us. Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic is a testimony to that faithfulness."

Matt Chandler, lead pastor of The Village Church

"In a highly relatable and raw exposure of the battle within, Jon takes us through his personal relationship with alcohol . . . first grabbing our attention with the book's title, Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic (with words that almost seem contradictory), and then delving deeper into the nuances of the drinking spectrum. This book tackles the 'quiet part out loud' that so many of us sitting in the pew on Sundays wished someone would talk about on a Monday morning . . . or better yet, a Friday night! No matter if you're questioning your drinking habits in this alcohol-centric society or if you know it's something that needs to change--this book is for you."

Jenn Kautsch, author of Look Alive, Sis and founder of the SoberSis community

"Jarring title for a book, right? We think Christian and alcoholic are two identities that shouldn't (couldn't?) be mingled. And yet, if we're honest, isn't that all too common within the church--a believer in public while struggling in private? Jon just had the courage to state it with a refreshingly raw combination of boldness, humility, and transformation. Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic exposes an ailment of the church: Once we confess Christ, we cease confessing sin . . . and to be silent with sin is to be ensnared by sin. Jon gives us Jesus, who both saves us and keeps us safe."

John Elmore (nineteen years sober), local pastor of Harris Creek (Waco, TX); author of Freedom Starts Today

"In Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic, Jon Seidl offers an honest, incisive look into his own relationship with alcohol and the broader challenge of alcohol and addiction. His personal story invites readers to give space and energy to their own stories in such a way that they might pause long enough to hear the still, small voice of God illuminating a new path forward. With vulnerability and faith, Seidl offers insight that encourages Christians to cultivate their own vulnerability and faith for the betterment of themselves and their Christian communities."

Erin Jean Warde, author of Sober Spirituality

"Jonathon M. Seidl's Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic is a book we all need. Even if your struggle isn't with alcohol, this book is for you--because, in some way, we're all addicts. Maybe it's the food you consume, not for sustenance but to quiet the ache. Maybe it's the pursuit of a perfect body to drown out deep insecurities. Maybe it's the endless pursuit of validation through screens, likes, and mindless scrolling or the fantasy that something external--a person, a promotion, a purchase--will make you whole. Addiction thrives in these ordinary things, where it whispers lies that comfort and ensnare us. It grows in our denial, feeding on fear, shame, and the illusion of control. Seidl's willingness to share his raw and unfiltered journey with addiction is both humbling and inspiring. He doesn't shy away from exposing his struggles, which offers readers an authentic account of recovery's messy and transformative process. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking grace amid their brokenness--whatever form it takes."

Tullian Tchividjian, author of Carnage & Grace

"It is one thing to take your addiction and pain and share them with the world; it is quite another thing to allow the gospel to transform your addiction and pain so that they become a tool that leads to the transformation of others. In Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic, Jon fearlessly wields that tool. If you're in need of hope or are an agent of hope, this book is for you."

Dr. Chris Harper, author, disciple maker, chief storyteller, and CEO of BetterMan

"Alcohol has become such an assumed part of our culture that many of us don't even question it--we just accept that to be 'normal' is to drink. I've seen firsthand how that belief sneaks into every corner of life, even among Christians, leaving people stuck in a cycle they don't want to be in. That's why Jon's book is such a gift. It shines a light on the impact of letting alcohol take up too much space in our lives and offers practical, actionable steps to break free. Whether you're curious about taking a break or ready to rethink your relationship with alcohol entirely, this book is one you'll want on your shelf. I'm confident it will help countless people for years to come."

Christy Osborne, sobriety coach and author of Love Life Sober

"As a neurosurgeon, I'm in the business of trying to save lives. And when I find something to help me do that, I prescribe it to everyone who needs it. Jon Seidl has written such a prescription in Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic. It could have been titled Confessions of a Christian because Jon's words apply to everyone who has chosen a surrogate with which to anesthetize themselves from the sin and shame life so often brings. His radical call not just to come to Jesus but to become like Jesus is the medicine we all so desperately need no matter what we're struggling with."

W. Lee Warren, MD, neurosurgeon, author of Hope Is the First Dose, and host of The Self-Brain Surgery Podcast with Dr. Lee Warren

"Confessions is Jon giving us a seat at the table of his soul! What he has provided is a raw, real, and, quite frankly, very radical brand of vulnerability that has not been articulated before. This is more than a book; it's an invite to become a sojourner and not merely an observer. The content is not strictly about alcohol addiction but rather attraction to anything that is misordered and disordered in our lives. This brave book is a true game changer when it comes to understanding sanctification, faith, and freedom in Christ!"

John Sterling, executive director, M46 Dads

"Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic is a courageous and bluntly honest account of Jon's battle with addiction and his journey toward redemption. Blending raw personal stories with faith-filled wisdom, Jon challenges misconceptions about addiction within the church and offers hope for those yearning for freedom. With practical tools and a message rooted in grace, this book is a lifeline for anyone navigating the messy, ongoing process of sanctification. Vulnerable and uplifting, it's a great resource for strugglers and supporters alike. Where was this book when I needed it?"

Ed Treat, Center for Addiction and Faith

"Praise God for Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic! Dripping with honesty and vulnerability, it's a special reminder that sanctification is an ongoing process that is never done this side of heaven. In fact, sin is creeping outside all our doors, and Christians are not immune from falling prey to the devil's tactics. All Christians--not just those struggling with addictive behaviors or misordered loves--will benefit from this book's gospel truths, deep wisdom, and important takeaways. As someone who has had a front-row seat to Jon's 'messy sanctification' story over the last couple years, I thank God for his work in Jon's life and am excited to see the impact this book will have."

Afshin Ziafat, lead pastor of Providence Church; board member of The Gospel Coalition

"Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic is an honest and redemptive work that courageously illuminates the intersection of faith, addiction, and trauma. Jon's bold commitment to vulnerability and healing is inspiring. His words offer hope for those struggling with the wounds that often fuel addiction, and he offers practical wisdom grounded in the transformative power of Christ's love. Confessions is a guide for anyone longing to break free and embrace the messy, beautiful process of healing."

Gina Birkemeier, LPC, author of Generations Deep

"If you feel all torn up by life, especially a life with too much drinking in it, you've come to the right place. My friend Jon Seidl has been where you are and has come back with a caring, practical path toward change. His message will especially resonate with Christians who love God--and, yes, are saved by grace--but still keep waking up hungover. Thankfully, as Jon says, God welcomes big, messy stories. No matter where you are today, Jon can help you take your first wobbly steps toward sobriety and a life you can love. Here you will discover the safe, caring friend you've been looking for and a coach who delivers both hard-won wisdom and a ton of hope. I can't recall reading a more vulnerable book by a man. Don't miss it!"

Heather Harpham Kopp, author of Sober Mercies

"In Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic, we are taken on an honest journey through addiction from the believer's perspective. Through Jon's recovery story, the reader comes to understand that alcoholism does not discriminate. Addiction can impact any person in any family in any community around the globe. What's more, the believer is not immune from the troubles caused by addiction but can be, like Jon, sanctified through them. Jon's book is truly a stream in the desert and reminds us that when we confess honestly about our struggle with addiction, something beautiful happens: We invite an opportunity for healing, lasting change, and a more intimate connection with Jesus."

Caroline Beidler, author of You Are Not Your Trauma

"As a friend and witness to Jon's storytelling, I believe this book will encourage and help you. His vulnerability shines through as he navigates the realities of being a follower of Jesus while facing an addiction. Each chapter is filled with hope, offering practical help and reassurance to those trapped in the silence of their habits. Jon powerfully illustrates that honesty with God and others is essential for addressing the root of our problems rather than merely managing behaviors. His journey reminds us that we are not alone in our battles and serves as a testament to the transformative power of true healing."

Joshua Broome, preacher and author of 7 Lies That Will Ruin Your Life

"Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic is the kind of book the church desperately needs--one that doesn't shy away from the messiness of real-life struggles, especially addiction struggles that countless Christians battle in shamed silence. Instead, it meets them with raw honesty and deep hope. Jonathon Seidl's vulnerability is a gift, reminding us that healing isn't about perfection but about surrender. If you've ever wrestled with shame, addiction, or the fear of being 'too broken,' this book will be a lifeline. A must-read for anyone seeking freedom and true transformation."

Dr. Zoe Shaw, psychotherapist, author, and host of Stronger in the Difficult Places

"Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic is the book we've needed in the faith community for years. Jon's raw honesty and powerful words speak to the heart of the matter and what it means to wrestle with our deepest struggles in a broken world. This book is a must-read for any Christian who has ever struggled with alcohol dependence in any way."

Ericka Andersen, journalist and author of the forthcoming book Freely Sober

"Jon has written a book that I knew I'd get lost in just from the preface. Too often, stories of transformation make that transformation seem sudden and out of reach--requiring a miracle rather than everyday discipline. Jon invites us messy humans into his messy journey both into and out of alcoholism--lying, therapy, childhood trauma, and all. He puts words to emotions and experiences I have not yet found the words to describe as someone who writes about both my sobriety and my relationship with God. Finding Jesus will change your life, but then what? Jon fills that gap by telling his own story and then showing us how he is finding his way out. Whether Jesus saved you from alcoholism but you're not sure what to do next--you knew Jesus and still fell into it (or anything else)--or you just know life could be more, and you're not sure what you're feeling, there is something for you in the words of Jon's heart and soul that he chose to share with all of us in the pages of this relatable yet wildly insightful book."

Lisa Stanton, PhD, author of 52 Life-Changing Lessons I Learned in Recovery

"Jon is a much-needed and welcome voice in the recovery conversation. People's struggles appear in different ways in different places. Some struggles are obvious: People end up in jails, rehabs, homeless shelters. But often, people's struggles are less obvious, even if they're surfacing in more familiar places, like the church, Bible studies, or nonprofits. Too often, people can't find the help they need because they struggle to relate to shocking testimonies: rock bottoms to peak mountaintops or rags to riches. So many people may be 'poor in spirit' while in church on Sunday. The more we hear of stories like Jon's, the more we can identify and/or serve so many who struggle in silence. You won't want to miss Jon's candor and care in Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic."

Jordan Rogers, sports marketing and branding expert, recovered heroin addict

"This book speaks to people on a multitude of levels. In the simplest and most profound terms I can describe, it oozes Jon's love for and trust in Jesus as well as his desire and hope that others might experience the abundant life Jon has found in him. Through Jon's words, I am encouraged, I am challenged beyond my fear, and I have hope."

Michele Ver Beek, director, Celebrate Recovery of EHBC (Statesboro, GA)

"It's not easy to expose the deepest, darkest parts of our heart and soul, yet that's what Jon so beautifully does in Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic. He exposes the problem areas he needed to confront in his own life and faith walk to find true healing. In an age and era where alcohol is lionized--and the self is elevated above all else--this book holds the power to implore us each to take a step back, reflect, and reapproach our lives to ensure we can clear out the muck and be the people the Lord has called us to be. If we're struggling with a lukewarm walk, Confessions delivers the compelling jolt we need to get back on track."

Billy Hallowell, CBN journalist and author

"I've seen firsthand Jon's transformation from someone who believed in grace to someone who has soaked it in. That's one of the beauties of this book--it is born out of experience. It's not theoretical; it's practical. Jon has lived out everything he talks about. This book is necessary for anyone who has ever worn a mask, regretted a decision, or wanted to stop doing what they knew they shouldn't be doing but couldn't. Jon has provided us all with a rich, beautiful guide to a better life. His four steps are essential for everyone. Read this book no matter what season of life you find yourself in. Even if you don't think you're struggling, you'll find something that can improve your walk with Jesus."

Steve French, founder and global ambassador of Lifework Global and executive producer of the Flourishing@Work Summit at Harvard University

"I'm truly excited to recommend Jon's book to my clients and anyone who is struggling or has struggled with addiction and trauma. His vulnerability and honesty help others to take that first important and scary step in recovery. Read it!"

Denice Colson, PhD, LPC, MAC, CPCS, CCS; diplomat in the American Association of Experts in Traumatic Stress; founder of Trauma Education and Consultation Services at Eagle's Landing Christian Counseling Center

"In Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic, Jon does more than just offer an insider's view into how a misordered relationship with alcohol steals, kills, and destroys the life-giving relationships with Jesus, others, and our true selves that God desires us to have. With the humility of someone who has bravely faced down his own childhood traumas and confronted the enemy within--dragging them both out of the shadows and exposing them to the light of God's penetrating grace--Jon shows us how to stop hiding behind our Sunday best and bravely take better care of ourselves."

Jimmy Hagerman, pastor of Recovery Church Nashville

---