In the late 1990s, Josh Harris was an unlikely figure to abandon Christianity. He was a pastor, a Christian radio show host, and a prominent author, touring extensively around the country promoting his book, I Kissed Dating Goodbye, which had become a standard for young people professing Christian values. His book and subsequent public appearances as a Christian defender of traditional family values and gender roles made him a figurehead for conservative Christians who sought moral guidelines to living the Christian life.
In 2019, however, Harris announced a dramatic shift in public opinion, acknowledging he had been wrong about his earlier views on dating and gender roles and renouncing his faith in Christianity. Though the details of Harris’ subsequent departure from Christianity remain unclear, it is apparent that this shift in opinion has left many perplexed and some deeply rejected as they no longer had a narrative to cling to in regards to Christian family values.
The theories as to why Harris left Christianity are varied, though certain responses emerge as to what may have allowed the change to take place. For instance, Harris himself has stated that the research he had done over the years had been leading him to question the teachings he had embraced during his earlier years. He had read and studied scientific textbooks, psychology texts and authors outside traditional Christian circles.
In addition, it has been suggested that Harris had difficulty reconciling some of the core Christian beliefs with modern social issues. He had become an advocate for the LGBT community and for greater gender equality, which placed him at odds with some of the fundamental beliefs of the Christian faith. Harris had also encountered criticism from the Christian community for his pro-LGBT stances, which eventually pushed him away from the religion.
Another factor that may have played a role was Harris’ involvement with what is sometimes referred to as the “purity culture,” which advocates for young people to practice sexual abstinence until marriage and view their bodies as temples to be protected and respected. Over the years, Harris had faced criticism from many who said his teachings were too rigid and restrictive, and had caused deep emotional trauma.
Though there is no single answer as to why Josh Harris left Christianity, it is clear his departure has been met with both sorrow and criticism. His transformation may have been the result of an accumulation of factors, including a growing unease with traditional Christian values, difficulty reconciling his beliefs with more progressive stances, and criticism of his involvement with the ‘purity culture.’ Whatever the cause of Harris’ departure from the faith, it is likely to rumble on in the years to come.
Beliefs His Book Promoted
I Kissed Dating Goodbye was published in 1997, and quickly grew in popularity. At the time, the book was hailed by many conservative and evangelical communities as a guide to dating, encouraging young people of faith to practice abstinence from dating until marriage. Harris’ book was influential in the promotion of what has come to be known as the “purity culture.” Purity culture emphasizes a lifestyle of sexual abstinence, encourages modesty and keeping oneself away from temptations, and constantly downplays any kind of attraction or courtship.
Some advocates of purity culture have blamed Harris’ book, alleging that its teachings were “too black and white” and caused damage to individuals, families and communities. Criticism of the book has come from both within and outside the Christian community, with some saying that it promoted legalistic ideals and unrealistic expectations of gender roles.
In recent years, Harris has acknowledged that he was wrong in his former beliefs and has openly apologized for the hurt that his book has caused, citing his own personal transformation and growing understanding of gender equality, same-sex relationships and other social issues.
Issues With Fundamental Christian Beliefs
Over the years, Harris has found himself increasingly at odds with some of the more traditional aspects of Christianity, including its stance on same-sex relationships, gender roles, and other social issues. Harris’ views on these topics had become more progressive, which caused some tension between him and the Christian community.
Harris’ new views were met with disapproval, and criticism from the Christian community. This eventually caused Harris to distance himself from traditional Christianity and its teachings, a move that has caused deep pain for many of his former followers who feel betrayed and confused by the sudden shift in opinion.
Harris pointed out in interviews that the research he had been doing throughout the years had led him to question his earlier views on gender roles and sexuality. He had read textbooks from other faiths, psychology textbooks, as well as authors outside traditional Christian circles. This increased understanding of issues outside traditional Christian beliefs had an enormous impact on his views, eventually causing him to leave the religion.
His Changing Views on Gender Roles
In 2017, Harris announced his views on gender roles had changed, writing, “I now think that the teachings of the Bible can easily be interpreted in more than one way on many matters. I believe that traditional male and female roles are not essential to a healthy marriage or family.” This startling declaration was made shortly after he publicly apologized to those who had been hurt by his earlier views on gender roles.
Harris argued that the Bible should not be interpreted so literally when it comes to gender roles. He argued that the Bible should be interpreted through the lens of the culture at the time, and that it is important to remember that people living in the 21st century have a much different view on gender roles than those living in ancient times.
Harris argued that this does not mean that Christianity should reject traditional gender roles and family values, but rather that it should be open to new perspectives and show compassion towards individuals with varying life experiences.
Adjusting to Life After Christianity
In the months that followed Harris’ departure from the Christian faith, he has been somewhat silent on the issue, opting instead to focus his attention on other matters. Despite his silence, it is evident his transformation has left a deep impact on many of his former followers. Some have expressed disappointment with his transition, feeling betrayed and confused by the sudden shift in opinion.
Others have expressed understanding and support, applauding Harris for being willing to openly apologize and admit his mistakes and embrace a new perspective. It appears that, at least for now, Harris is content with his life as a post-Christian and is focused on his family.
Transitioning Into A Non-Religious Lifestyle
It is uncertain what the future holds for Josh Harris, but he has taken steps in recent months to transition into a non-religious lifestyle. He has openly apologized for the hurt he caused from his book, I Kissed Dating Goodbye, and has been active in the LGBT community, supporting greater acceptance and equality.
Harris has also been outspoken about mental health, discussing his own struggles with depression and anxiety. In an effort to better understand what he was going through, Harris has begun to explore other faiths and beliefs, and is willing to consider the possibility that there is more to life than what Christianity offers.
He has publicly stated that he and his family are “not attending any church while they consider what their next steps will be and figure out whether they will ever attend church again.” This open-minded attitude suggests Harris is willing to explore a wide range of beliefs and ideologies, as he attempts to establish a life outside the confines of Christianity.
Impact of His Departure on Christian Community
Harris’ departure from the Christian faith has had a ripple effect throughout the Christian community. His transformation has left many feeling betrayed, confused and uncertain about the future of the religion. This uncertainty has brought about a deeper discussion within the Christian community about what role the religion should play in defining gender roles and social issues.
Many see Harris’ transformation as an opportunity to rethink some of the core beliefs of Christianity and to reconsider the role the religion should play in public discourse. This opportunity might prove beneficial to the Christian community, allowing them to reshape their teachings in line with modern social issues.
The Meaning of His Change of Perspective
Harris’ transition is an example of how one’s beliefs can change over time. It is a reminder that no matter how closely we cling to beliefs, passions, and ideologies, there is always a possibility for us to broaden our perspective and reevaluate our views. His example provides hope for those who are struggling to find their place in a rapidly changing world.
At its core, Harris’ transformation is a reminder that it is okay to be open-minded and accept change. It also reflects our human tendency to grow and evolve as we learn more, as we come into contact with different cultures, as we experience life, and as we grapple with difficult questions.
The Message He is Spreading Now
Since his departure, Harris has been largely silent on matters of religion and has shifted his focus to other areas. He has been outspoken about the importance of mental health and has used his platform to spread messages of support and acceptance. Harris believes in the power of apologizing and of admitting our mistakes, and of being willing to grow from them.
Harris has also emerged as a strong advocate for the LGBT community and for greater gender equality. He has been a vocal supporter of causes seeking to bridge the gap between religion and progressivism and is increasingly becoming an influential voice on matters of faith and morality.
Harris’ transformation may have been misunderstood by some and criticized by others, but it has also provided a platform for a much-needed debate about the role of religion in society today.
