Critique of Purity Culture and New Perspectives

The critique of purity culture reveals a shift in evangelical views on sexuality, with many young people engaging in intimate relationships outside of marriage. Research indicates that a significant number of never-married evangelicals have had intimate partners recently, suggesting that past methods of teaching sexual morality may not be effective. Critics of purity culture often misinterpret its teachings, conflating them with shame and promoting a narrative that may reject biblical values altogether. Instead, a more holistic understanding of purity, rooted in scripture and the redemptive work of Christ, emphasizes the importance of sexual morality beyond mere abstinence.