Sex Is Not the Problem (Lust Is)

Sex Is Not the Problem (Lust Is) addresses the challenge of lust from a biblical perspective. Joshua Harris examines how Christians can pursue purity in their thoughts and actions. The book provides practical strategies for dealing with sexual temptation while maintaining a grace-centered approach. Harris shares personal experiences and stories from others who have struggled with lust, creating a framework for understanding and overcoming these struggles. Harris outlines specific steps readers can take to identify triggers, establish boundaries, and develop accountability. The text includes separate chapters for men and women, acknowledging the different ways lust manifests across genders. The work stands as a counter-cultural examination of sexuality in modern society, emphasizing the possibility of freedom from lust rather than mere behavior modification. Through biblical principles and real-world application, Harris presents sexual purity as a positive pursuit rather than a restrictive set of rules.

Readers describe this book as a more mature and nuanced follow-up to Harris's earlier work "I Kissed Dating Goodbye." Many appreciate his shift from rigid rules to addressing root causes of lust and practical strategies for managing sexual desires within a Christian framework. Positive reviews highlight: - Clear biblical references and scripture-based approach - Practical action steps and accountability suggestions - Balanced perspective on both male and female experiences - Focus on heart transformation rather than behavior modification Common criticisms: - Remains too restrictive and legalistic - Can induce shame and guilt - Oversimplifies complex topics - Limited relevance outside conservative Christian circles Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (450+ ratings) One reader noted: "Harris moves beyond surface-level modesty rules to address deeper heart issues." Another critiqued: "While well-intentioned, the book's approach can foster unhealthy attitudes toward sexuality and relationships."

Every Man's Battle by Stephen Arterburn, Fred Stoeker. This book provides strategies for men to maintain sexual integrity through understanding triggers and implementing practical boundaries.

Finally Free by Heath Lambert. The book connects biblical teaching with concrete action steps for breaking free from pornography and sexual sin.

The Purity Principle by Randy Alcorn. The text outlines the connection between personal holiness and life satisfaction through biblical foundations.

Not Even a Hint by Joshua Harris. This companion book focuses on God's design for sexuality and presents a framework for pursuing purity in thought and action.

The Game Plan by Joe Dallas. The book presents a 30-day strategy to help men overcome sexual temptation and establish lasting change through biblical principles.

🔹 The book was originally published in 2003 under the title "Not Even a Hint: Guarding Your Heart Against Lust," before being renamed and republished in 2005. 🔹 Author Joshua Harris later apologized for some of his teachings and publicly announced in 2019 that he was stepping away from Christianity, separating from his wife, and no longer considers himself a Christian. 🔹 This book was a follow-up to Harris's bestseller "I Kissed Dating Goodbye," which he wrote at age 21 and which sold over 1.2 million copies before he later retracted it. 🔹 The book addresses both male and female perspectives on lust, which was relatively uncommon for Christian literature on the topic at the time of its publication. 🔹 Harris wrote a companion guide called "Sex Is Not the Problem (Lust Is) - Study Guide" specifically for small group discussions and deeper personal reflection on the topic.