Joshua harris kissed dating goodbye

Joshua Harris is an American pastor who, in 1997, wrote a book entitled "I Kissed Dating Goodbye". The book was written as an instruction manual to help young adults navigate the Christian dating scene in a more Biblical manner. In it, Harris argues that traditional dating has led to broken hearts, hurtful relationships, and unnecessary temptations that can lead to sin. He encourages readers to practice courtship instead, which emphasizes focus on God, getting to know the other person, and building a relationship through mutual respect and trust.

The book gained immediate success and Harris became a celebrity spokesperson for the Christian community on the topic of dating. His book was praised by many in the Christian community for its fresh take on dating, and its intent to keep young adults focused on God during their dating journey. Many churches began to use the book as a teaching tool to help teens and young adults have better relationships, as well as a resource for evaluating potential marriage partners.

However, some felt that the book's message was too restrictive and had a negative impact on their dating lives. They felt that it gave young adults unrealistic expectations of finding a soul mate through courtship and that it did not provide enough guidance for young people to make meaningful connections.

Though the book has been met with mixed reviews, it has nonetheless been influential in how Christians approach relationships and courtship. It has caused many in the Christian community to re-examine their expectations of dating and think more deeply about the qualities they should look for in a potential partner. The book has also paved the way for more open conversations about Christian dating and relationship issues.