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

"Passion and Purity" by Elisabeth Elliot is an incredibly profound and heartfelt exploration of the challenges and triumphs that come with striving for a God-centered relationship. Elliot bravely shares her own personal experiences, including her love story with missionary Jim Elliot, providing valuable insight and wisdom for those seeking to navigate the complexities of romantic relationships. Her writing beautifully combines poetic prose with practical advice, making it both relatable and invaluable.

The book is divided into two distinct parts: passion and purity. In the first part, Elliot delves deep into the powerful emotions and desires that often accompany romantic love. She acknowledges the intensity of these feelings while emphasizing the importance of surrendering them to the lordship of Christ. Drawing from biblical examples and personal anecdotes, she encourages readers to trust in God's timing and plan for their love lives.

The second part of the book tackles the crucial topic of purity, encompassing both physical and emotional aspects. Elliot bravely shares her own struggles and successes in maintaining purity before and during her relationship with Jim, stressing the significance of honoring God's design for intimacy. Additionally, she explores the concept of emotional purity, urging readers to protect their hearts and invest in relationships that prioritize spiritual growth.

Throughout "Passion and Purity," Elliot consistently emphasizes the vital role of God's will and the necessity of surrender in relationships. She challenges societal norms and presents a countercultural perspective on dating and romance, urging readers to seek God's guidance and put His purposes above their own desires.

Elliot's insights in "Passion and Purity" are timeless and offer invaluable guidance. Her honest and reflective writing resonates with readers of all ages, providing encouragement and direction for those navigating the complexities of romantic relationships. This book serves as a valuable resource for both singles and those in relationships, offering a solid foundation for building godly love and marriage.

What are readers saying?

"Passion and Purity" by Elisabeth Elliot has generated varied responses from its readers. Some found the book to be deeply inspiring and thought-provoking, praising Elliot's honesty and vulnerability in recounting her personal quest to discern God's will in matters of love and relationships. They appreciated the book's focus on pursuing purity and surrendering one's desires to God. Elliot's relatable writing style and wise insights on waiting for God's timing resonated with many, making them highly recommend "Passion and Purity" to those navigating the complexities of love.

However, there were readers who felt that the book's perspectives on relationships and marriage were outdated. They questioned Elliot's strict views on purity and her emphasis on women's submission to men. Some critics also found the repetitive and overly religious writing style to diminish their enjoyment.

Despite the mixed reviews, "Passion and Purity" has deeply touched many readers, offering comfort and guidance to those grappling with questions of love, relationships, and faith. Whether or not readers resonate with the book's teachings may depend on their personal beliefs and experiences. Nevertheless, "Passion and Purity" remains an influential book in Christian literature, providing insight and inspiration for those seeking to align their love lives with their faith.

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