Inter-Varsity Press

Contents

Foreword by Lyndon Bowring

Introduction: Let’s talk about porn

1. Looking beyond the frame

2. Freed by the beauty of God

3. Freed by the grace of God

4. The fight of faith

5. Freed for the glory of God

Conclusion: Putting it all together

FOREWORD

The subject of pornography is far from easy to write about, but if this is an issue for you personally, or you’d like to know-how to help someone who may be affected by porn, it will be time very well spent to consider what Tim has written here.Tim has combined his considerable skill in understanding Scripture with a very honest and practical approach to the need to overcome this particular problem, which is affecting an increasing number of Christians – and not just men! The author of this book offers hope, and the possibility of living free from the snare of pornography.

A social cancer, a sexual distortion, a relationship wrecker, idolatry, a snare. Addiction to porn can be described in many ways; it is a serious problem for many men and women within the Christian church. One reason for the declining numbers of men attending church is that, with the feeling of shame and hypocrisy so many experience through accessing pornography, it is too painful to worship at church and pretend that all is well. How can we lift our voices in praise, join together in prayers for forgiveness and listen to sermons about Christian living, when there is a dark secret inside our hearts that we cannot seem to overcome? It’s far easier to give the Sunday service a miss.

Without sounding super-spiritual or piling on the guilt,this book emphasizes the fact that we cannot change without God’s help. Alongside a healthy dose of self-discipline, we have his grace for every area of our lives. At the cross we receive all we need. Becoming a Christian gives us a fresh start, but how can this become a reality day by day as we all too often give in to temptation? What about someone who has been a believer for decades and still can’t kick the habit?

Tim breaks down this challenge into five areas and points out that each of these elements is needed: abhorrence, adoration,assurance, avoidance and accountability.

It is vital for us to understand the reasons behind struggles with porn, and Tim analyses the psychological and spiritual thought patterns and life choices clearly. In today’s ‘pornified culture’ technology makes sexually explicit material incredibly easy to access and almost impossible to avoid. And so much of it is free!

In preparation for the book, Tim conducted a survey. The stories and frank comments of the anonymous men and women who took part really bring the text alive. They remind us that thousands of people have turned aside from using porn, and in its place have discovered a new freedom in their relationship with God, with men and women in general,and with their spouses in particular.

I commend Tim for tackling this crucially important issue for our time. His diligent research and non-judgmental approach will, I promise, help many Christians who are struggling with porn.

Lyndon Bowring

Executive Chairman, CARE

January 2010