Passion and Purity by Elisabeth Elliot
Week 1: Introduction — "Is There a Place for Passion?"
Read the Introduction and Chapters 1–2 of Passion and Purity. Primary Scripture: 1 Corinthians 6:19–20; Romans 12:1–2.
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Elliot opens the book by naming the tension at the heart of it: we are created for passion, and we are called to purity — and she insists these are not opposites. Before diving in, sit with that claim and consider whether you have ever believed it.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Elliot describes herself as a woman with "strong feelings" who is writing for others who also have strong feelings. What does she say she is NOT doing — and what is she actually trying to accomplish in this book?
2.She argues that the modern world offers two bad options for handling desire: repression or indulgence. In your own words, what is wrong with each approach, and what is the third way she proposes?
3.How does Elliot use the phrase "offering up" a desire? What does she mean by it, and why does she think it matters whether we use that language versus simply "giving up" a desire?
4.The book is structured around her real relationship with Jim Elliot, including actual letters between them. How does knowing this is a true story affect the way you receive her counsel? Does it make it more or less persuasive to you?
a.What details in the opening chapters make the story feel real and not idealized?
b.Are there ways in which their story feels so unique that you struggle to apply it to your own life?
5.Elliot quotes Jim Elliot's famous line: "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose." How does that logic apply to the question of surrendering romantic desire to God?
6.Romans 12:1 calls us to offer our bodies as "living sacrifices." Elliot argues that this includes sexual and romantic desires. Does that feel like good news or a hard word to you? Why?
7.What is one assumption about romance, dating, or desire that you brought to this book — something you have never questioned — that these opening chapters begin to challenge?
Closing Prayer
Lord, we confess that we have often treated our desires as our own property — things to manage, satisfy, or suppress on our own terms. Thank You that You created us for passion and for love, and that You are not embarrassed by our longing. Teach us what it means to offer these desires back to You — not as a resignation, but as an act of trust. We want to believe that You are Lord even of this. Amen.
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