At the Altar of Sexual Idolatry

by Steve Gallagher

Living in the 21st century is like swimming in a sea of sensuality. With no possibility of insulating themselves from sexual temptation, countless numbers of Christian men are drowning in this bottomless ocean of lust. Many men have tried everything they can to find the freedom they are longing for….So why do so few find it? In At the Altar of Sexual Idolatry, Steve Gallagher masterfully exposes the real roots of sexual addiction, clearly marks the path to a victorious life, and conclusively affirms the authority of God's Word through personal testimony. In the most comprehensive treatment of sexual addiction available, Gallagher shows men how to destroy the idol of lust and paves the way for a radical transformation of their heart and life.

Genres: Christian, Counselling, Christianity, Christian Living, Addiction, Nonfiction, Religion

287 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 25, 2000

About the author

Steve Gallagher is the Founder and Chairman of the Board of Pure Life Ministries. He is a prolific writer, having authored 12 books, including the best-selling At the Altar of Sexual Idolatry. He is also a regularly featured columnist in both print and web media. Steve holds an Associates of Arts degree from Sacramento City College and a Master’s Degree in Pastoral Ministry from Master’s International School of Divinity. He is also a certified Biblical Counselor through the International Association of Biblical Counselors (IABC) in Denver, CO.

Reviews

[Ramón S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very powerful book with good insights about the sexual addiction. Based in the personal experience of the author and his faith in the Word of God.
If you are looking for a book to help others in the trap of sexual addiction or you are in it you will find hope here.

[C.H. Cobb · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the more intractable problems the biblical counselor faces is helping men conquer sexual sin. Gallagher's book is a great resource, for both the counselor and the addict. He casts the problem as it should be presented: a matter of idolatry, and offers excellent practical solutions and directions. His use of Scripture is for the most part very solid, and Gallagher does a good job at digging down to the roots of the problem, rather than simply giving instructions for moralistic fruit-clipping.

The book is sufficiently graphic in its description of the spiral of degradation that a man can read it and identify with it, but not so graphic that it becomes a problem for a man already wrestling with sexual fantasy. Some reviewers have felt otherwise, so you'll want to read the book before you use it and form your own opinion.

I recommend working through this book chapter by chapter with a counselee. Don't be in a hurry--they need to digest what is being said. In my counseling I have them reading through this and Jerry Bridges' Pursuit of Holiness at the same time, to provide a more complete "put-off put-on" emphasis.

There's also a workbook available that my counselees have found useful.

I highly recommend this book.

[Paul Decker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read this book at least two and a half times and it is biblically centered! Gallagher's expirence with addiction of this type makes him unique in helping others with sexual sins. This book is also great because it's not just for sexual sins the truths in this book can help those struggling with any addiction.

[Sérgio de Alencar]

This is an excellent book, one that every Christian - especially men - should read. You can't deny the constant presence of lust and pornography in our daily lives. That is why we should know how God wants us to deal with it.

[Jon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book for helping those who are struggling with sexual temptation and sin better understand what God has to say about the topic. Gallagher's helpful anecdotes and biblical examples properly lay out the ins and outs of the mindset of someone struggling with sexual temptations. That being said, I echo the other reviewers who wish that there are more practical steps to take in helping people get out of their habitual sins. If I were to use this book as a way to counsel men struggling in sexual sin, I would definitely use it in conjunction with other books dealing with the same subject such as Finally Free which deals mostly with those struggling with pornography. I can see using this book to help guys who already desire repentance in this area.

[Dan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great book for men dealing with the sin of sexual idolatry. Gallagher deals honestly with the issues of lust, pornography, sexual addiction, masturbation, etc. and exposes the root cause of these issues: pride. Many well-meaning authors have come at these issues from various standpoints, but Gallagher makes the point that if you don't start with pride, you'll never deal with the real issue and find true, lasting freedom from these sins. A great read!

[Joshua Sun · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book and very biblical based.

[D. Ferguson · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’m not sure I would recommend the beginning of this book. In an effort to relate to the struggles men face, Gallagher describes various sexual sins in ways that could potentially increase temptation in the minds of men who struggle with lust. The most helpful chapters are ch.12-17, where he gives solutions.
A few minor concerns – on p.202 he seems to confuse repentance with victory. He describes a situation where a man who is remorseful but continues to stumble, and suggests that his ongoing stumbling shows a lack of repentance. He also holds to a view of demonic atmospheres, where demons of certain sins dominate a particular area (p.231). And on p.257, he makes a point about how love involves serving, regardless of emotion. That is true, but I think he goes too far in understating the importance of emotion. A man should serve his wife, but he should also take delight in her and have desire for her.
The most helpful principle I found in the book was his point about how lust is selfishness. When a lustful temptation arises, remind yourself that it would be selfishness, and think about what you can do to serve someone. If nothing else, pray for someone.
Overall, I think there are more helpful books on the topic of sexual purity. I recommend Finally Free by Heath Lambert.

[Patrice Tyler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even if you THINK you don't have sexual sin in your life, you have to read this book. The reader can relate to the sin of idolatry on more than the sexual level. Having said that: 1 in 4 women are molested, 1 in 6 males have been molested; over 70% of Christian men view pornography; every family knows at least one child molester. This book and Pure Life Ministries is a Godly resource for those trapped in or effected by sexual idolatry. "The Kingdom suffereth violence and the violent take it by force!" Let God help you.

[Mikey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Best quote: One man who had been convicted for attempted rape but later struggled his way out of sexual addiction said, "If you don't want to get rid of the problem, confess it only to God. If you want to get rid of the problem, confess it to another person. And if you really want to get rid of the problem, keep yourself accountable." - page 74-75

[Michael Joseph · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best book I have read on the subject. Unapologetic in pointing to Christ as the solution, and *how* to go to Him and depend on Him. I recommend to all who struggle with lust, and any who desire to help those struggling with lust.

[Christopher Keller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sin takes you farther than you ever wanted to go, keep you longer than you ever wanted to stay, and cost more than you could ever pay.

Reverence and gratitude to God begins at humbling ourselves before him; repentance. This is demonstrated by hating sin.

[Michelle McKoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life changer

This book has changed my life. I'm it is words of life and a new life. Praise God for it

[Johnnie Griffin II · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best book on sexual purity I've ever read, it changed my life.

[Zach S · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spiritually Grounding and Honest—But Not the Whole Picture

This book has been a powerful tool in rebooting my spiritual life. As someone walking the road of recovery from sexual addiction, I found the author’s focus on the transformation of the heart and mind deeply meaningful. His message—that lasting sobriety begins with spiritual renewal—resonated with me on a core level. That said, I want to share a few gentle cautions, especially for those who are new to recovery or Christianity. While this book is deeply encouraging, it may not be the only resource you need for a full picture of healing.


1. Spiritual Change Is Vital—but Understanding the Brain Helps Too

The author makes a strong case that spiritual change is the key to overcoming addiction, and I absolutely agree—it’s foundational. But as someone in recovery, I’ve also found it incredibly helpful to understand why my brain does what it does. Knowing the science behind addiction reassures me that I’m not just morally flawed or "crazy"—there’s a physical, neurological side to this, too. If you’re like me and want to understand that aspect, I highly recommend checking out Out of the Shadows by Patrick Carnes and Your Brain on Porn by Gary Wilson. Pairing that knowledge with spiritual work has helped me stay grounded and hopeful.

2. Some Language May Feel Shame-Heavy—Read with Grace

There are moments in the book that may come off a little heavy-handed or shaming, especially if you’re new to faith or early in recovery. I don’t believe the author intends this at all—his heart clearly desires healing for his readers. But shame plays a huge role in the addiction cycle, and it’s something we need to be mindful of. If any part of the book hits too hard, I encourage you to keep reading through a lens of grace—and maybe supplement it with other recovery materials that speak to the emotional side of addiction.

3. Fellowship Is Crucial—Don’t Walk This Path Alone

The author warns about people who just “go through the motions” in recovery without true spiritual change will stay stuck in recovery and never be truly healed. I agree with that caution 100%. But I also think the importance of community and fellowship can’t be overstated. Being in recovery can feel isolating, and finding a group of people who understand what you’re going through is invaluable. I’ve personally found the Samson Society to be a life-giving group—a Christ-centered fellowship where men can be honest, supported, and heard. It’s helped me stay on the path when I’ve felt most alone.

So to be clear: I really appreciated this book. It challenged me and helped me reconnect with the spiritual foundation I’d lost sight of. But I also believe that recovery is a multi-layered journey—one that benefits from faith, science, emotional awareness, and community. This book is a powerful piece of that puzzle—but not the whole thing. Read it, absorb it, and keep building your toolkit.

[Jaden, · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly I can’t imagine a better book on a specific sin in the way how this writers made the setup. Starting with the problem, telling his own story and testimonies from others followed by theological and psychological information. Ending with practical advice.

Really interesting. A must read for (young) men and young adults in general (Christian or non-believing) who want to live a disciplined life in the craziness of western society.

[Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

We read this with our men’s group from church. At a few moments the author’s theological lack of training and non-confessional commitments showed, but it’s still a mostly helpful and quite accessible book for talking and thinking through fighting sin. He uses lots of Scripture and illustrations, and gives many applications. Many chapters apply to any kind of sin.

[Bbqchips · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book describing practical keys to walking in God's Spirit and the selfishness connected to all manners of life often inherent with sexual sin. Reliance on God and His word is key to freedom. I will probably be reading (at least parts) of this one again.

[Jonathan Southwick · Rating 5 out of 5]

You don't necessarily need to be struggling with some sexual sin for this book to have a positive impact in your life. But if you are struggling, this book will be a great help if you put into practice the things Steve talks about. A must read!

[Leandro Texeira · Rating 4 out of 5]

Avaliação coerente com a posição bíblica. Bastantes confidências do autor. Pecado sexual é um pecado como outros: escraviza.

[Erik Koster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book on the topic. Highly recommend.

[Michael Ibarra · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book many, many years ago (probably when I was in high school at the time... 2000-2004 era or so), and found it really heavy and inaccessible at the time. I picked it up a few weeks ago and started my way through it. Lately I had been feeling really convicted over the "lax" approach I had had for many years on sexual purity/lust/etc. Take your pick, really.

Steve Gallagher outlines many, many solid truths in this book. I found his portrayal of sexual sin especially and its consequences really eye-opening -- both in the Scripture he uses to back up his claims, and in the real-life stories of utter destruction he's encountered through counseling at Pure Life Ministries. Much of the book focuses on explaining the spiral downward into sexual sin (and addiction), and how that affects nearly every aspect of a person's life. It's pretty amazing, how he identifies all of it, and he's spot-on in so much of it.

I wish he would have spent a few more chapters on practical application for battling sexual temptation and sin, and so on (only about 3-4 chapters out of 17 are dedicated to this), so I would consider this book, as whole, more of a deep-dive into the NATURE of sexual sin... though not necessarily an absolute guidebook for combating it. That said, the book stands powerfully on its own, and if you had only read one over the years on the subject, you would be well off even so.

There were a couple things I didn't agree with so much in the book. First, in the opening, pages, Steve cites a few "current events" type stories of college students essentially participating in pornographic live demonstrations in their health classes, along with demonstrations of various sex acts, all within moderately well-renowned college campuses. The footnote stated the story having appeared on a website in 2001-2002, so I tried to pull up the site myself to see if it was true. It seemed so outlandish, so I figured I'd check the facts myself. The sites he was referencing were admittedly very conservative whistleblower-type websites that, while I don't inherently have any issue with, failed to cite any sort of news release, press detail, or interviews with anyone in particular. It was honestly as if the original website could have made up the story from thin air, and published it as fact. I don't fault Steve for this, but I was disappointed that he would quote a source that failed to back up their claims with hard evidence.

Steve also spent a moderate amount of time (a full chapter) on the influence of demonic forces in a person's life driving him to sin. Now... I am not discounting the reality of a spiritual realm by any means. But his level of focus on this aspect seemed, as an afterthought, really forced to try to spin another (seemingly outlandish) cause for sexual sin in a person's life. I come from a very traditional background, church-wise, so I suppose that's to blame for my hesitation as well. He doesn't go so far as to suggest demonic possession in a person's life for sexual sin/idolatry, but he comes close. It just caught me off-guard and rubbed me the wrong way. This section, I found, also lacked the level of Scriptural basis and references he had normally included in other chapters.

Other than those two "gripes", it really was a very good book. For someone really lost in a lifestyle of depraved sexual sin, this is a really powerful book. At any level, really, it's a powerful book. But like Sam (another reviewer, previously) sad, there are many other books out there that focus less on the nature of the sin, the stories of depravity, and so on, and instead focus on freedom, grace, and the Truth that sets us free from ALL sin and death -- not just sexual idolatry (Randy Alcorn's "The Purity Principle" and Josh Harris' "Sex Isn't the Problem: Lust Is" both come to mind).

Regardless, I hope this helps you in your decision to read/not read this book. It was certainly insightful for me, and I am very glad I re-read it all these years later. I just wouldn't probably use it as the ONLY foray into the subject.

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I appreciate the ministry of Pure Life Ministries and it's founder, Steve Gallagher very much. Having heard of this book years ago, I was finally able to read it. Overall, the content was good. The author has certainly earned the right to speak out and write on this subject! I view this book from the same perspective as I have with Jay Adams' works. While other authors have come along and refined and furthered ideas of Adams, I don't want to be in the group bashing the original guy. Same here. Other authors have refined and furthered many of Steve's ideas, but that doesn't mean this book doesn't still have it's place. While it won't be the first for me to hand out, I'm glad that I've read it and I'm glad Steve wrote it.

[Nathan Wilder · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book does a great job of highlighting the severity and seriousness of what the world would call "small" sins in the area of sexual purity. Steve makes a good case for purity by showing what kind of damage the alternative leads to. He effectively points to the heart issues, while demanding choices be made to change destructive behaviors.

Greatest weakness: Several points made throughout the book are theologically inconsistent, but this should not stop us from gleaning his main point.

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Unpleasant, but enlightening. Forewarned is forearmed, as they say---wish I'd read this one sooner. We need to understand how prevalent and destructive these addictions/sins are and help our families be more aware, awake, alert and armed by His Grace and His Spirit. It's a battle we can't afford to lose.

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book for any who struggle with enslaving habits of any kind. Helpful stuff on christian growth . . .

[Kenneth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent book for understanding and helping treat folks who are struggling with sexual addictions.

[Michael Locklear · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want to thank my friends, Revs. Bob Dimmitt, Wayne Miracle and Eric Brown for recommending this book.

[Brandi Leblanc]

Very informative book. A topic lots of marriages are dealing with these days especially Christian marriages.

[Justin Mohr · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing. It helped me out alot.