Passion and Purity: Learning to Bring Your Love Life Under Christ's Control

I loved this book when I read it as a middle schooler, and I used to gift it to others. There were so few books talking about dating as a Christian when this book was first published that it felt like a life raft. However, as an adult, I've come to the realization that though this book may work as a good memoir/history book, it is A TERRIBLE BOOK FOR RELATIONSHIP ADVICE. Jim Eliot treated Elisabeth terribly. I want so much better for my children. There are so many better options out there now. Sheila Gregoire has great resources on the problems with this book. She also has an excellent book about dating called She Deserves Better. Also consider Talking Back to Purity Culture by Rachel Joy Welcher.

Passion and Purity came to my attention on the sale table at a Christian radio website. Of course it is not coincidental, but providential. I am a born-again divorced Christian in my 50's. I had been praying that God would clearly (like neon signs) show me His will for my life. I definitely had not been praying for another husband. But surprise, it seems that God has now arranged a marriage for me and He is giving me the signs that it is in His will. I am trying to resist God's will as I fight my stubborn pride that I am fine, thank you very much, as a single person. This precious little book has come to me in perfect timing. Elisabeth's writing is exquisite and so lovely. She includes lots of quotes from the old hymns and from old poetry that used such beautiful, perhaps quaint, language. I had to slow down my reading to savor each word, each phrase. This book's message will seem antiquated to the people who've bought into the current lack of morals and restraints in relationships. But it is a timeless and convicting truth that God has designed sexuality to be an indescribably awesome and divine experience when expressed within the boundaries of a marriage. Taken out of it's Creator's intent, sex becomes meaningless and spiritually void. I love this little book and I definitely will recommend it to everyone. It is a delightful little gem in a pool of deception.

My small group and I and going through this study. It is a great book and i believe Ms. Elliot isn't necessarily speaking to those who think they know better about live but to those who believe that they have failed GOD one too many times. A lot of the women in my small group get upset or frustrated over Ms Elliott's stories about falling for a guy but they do not grasp that the stories aren't necessarily to teach us about how she ultimately avoided being smitten with a guy. But she is here to teach us how not to do what she did. I do not like it when people are so smart that they overlook the underlying lesson and i would advise you that of you take on this reading, do not look at Ms. Elliot as trying to act like she got everything right, but take a lesson from what happened to her and grow from there.Great read. Her life was definitely God driven and she tells this story of waiting and chastity that is almost obsolete today. ..

I bought this book because my pastor recommended it to me. It is probably one of the most helpful books I have ever read, and one of the few that I plan to read again. I am a young man in my late teens that is considering courtship and marriage for the first time. This book was so helpful and reassuring to me that I recommend that anyone that is considering any type of relationship with the opposite sex should read. I knew about courtship before reading this book but it really solidified my understanding and gave me a great biblical guideline and example. It has taught me how to act appropriately around young women, given me more patience in finding a future spouse, and has also given me some great tools in the selection of a future spouse. Anyone who seeks to be biblical and and obey Christ's will for us in this very difficult process of finding a spouse should read this book.Update: 8 years later and my now boyfriend of two years read this review... He brought it to my attention again and I have to say that the last few years with my wonderful partner have been amazing. We are both furries and I have met so many amazing people. I am happier than I have ever been!

It was supposed to be good as new. But it had writing and underlining inside. I think the original owner used it as a prayer journal bc several intimate, personal prayers are written inside 😳

Definitely recommend this book to anyone learning about relationship between a man and a woman. The story is a godly example lacked in today's age. I always go back to the principles laid in this book when I'm confused by the noise of the world and when I need comfort in God's promises. This book helps us center on Christ in our relationships and seek beyond relationships- what matters at the end is the glory of God, not the problems or desires we face. And those who seek to glorify Christ in their lives will gladly accept the challenges of embracing the 'sufferings' coming along in a godly relationship between a man and a woman. I admire Elisabeth Elliot's perseverance and faith in God in her relationship with Jim. I hope to see mine honors and pleases God as well. Also, from this book, you can see just how a godly relationship can bear fruits that benefit not only between the two people in the relationship, but also others around.

My favorite book, other than The Bible. A man like Jim Elliot is very rare these days. I can see how she loved and respected him. The book is a great read for young single Christian women who desire marriage. I'm sure young single Christian men would enjoy it also! I learned so much about waiting and the importance of remaining pure and allowing the man to initiate the relationship. It's not easy to wait without being anxious. Also, there are subtle ways to show a man that you are interested without being too forward. I hope to have a daughter one day so I can share the book with her. I have read it at least three times already and it always gives me a new inspiration and touches my heart like I'm reading it for the first time.

This is such a great read! I could not put this book down. I recommend this for every single person to read! I've used it in my girls group when we discuss dating.

As a Christian woman who’s purity is important I really enjoyed reading this book!

Used book but in ok shape.

I highly recommend this book for all young women. Its an eye opener when it comes to understanding identity and the importance of purity in a single girl/woman's life

Great book! Would definitely recommend