EDITORIAL
Barna Trends | David Kinnaman
Pornography is not a fringe issue. It’s a defining discipleship challenge of our time. And yet many church leaders still feel ill-equipped to talk about it, much less offer solutions.
In a new study, Beyond the Porn Phenomenon, Barna Group partnered with Pure Desire Ministries to take a fresh look at pornography use in the U.S., and what churches can do about it.
Sixty-one percent of U.S. adults say they view pornography at least occasionally, a six-point increase since Barna’s 2015 study on the issue, The Porn Phenomenon. More than half of practicing Christians (54%) also admit to using porn. And while men are still more likely to report usage, women’s engagement is on the rise—44% now say they watch porn, too.
Most users struggle in silence. While 84% of porn users say they don’t have anyone to help them avoid it, half say no one knows they struggle at all. This lack of support can have devastating consequences. Contrary to the belief that porn use is private and harmless, the data shows it significantly impacts mental health and relationships. Married adults are not exempt—1 in 5 say they view porn weekly, and one-third report their spouse or partner watches regularly.
Church leaders must recognize that what feels hidden is actually hurting people, and that discipleship includes helping people break free from destructive patterns. The call is not just to preach against sin but to walk with people toward healing.
“Isolation is the Enemy’s playground,” says Nick Stumbo, executive director of Pure Desire. “Our dream is to see the church as the safest place for someone to admit to their sexual struggles. But in order to become this kind of place, we must be willing to face reality, evaluate the needs of the local church and city, and then construct an effective plan for true change.”
The data reveals that only 10% of Christians say their church offers a program or group for those struggling with pornography. Meanwhile, 75% of pastors say they’re already ministering to people with this struggle. There’s a clear disconnect between intent and impact.
Still, the research points to hope. It’s important for churches to address pornography and sexual compulsive behavior, says 3 out of 4 churchgoers. And most U.S. adults believe recovery is possible, especially through therapy (56%) and addiction recovery resources (28%).
This is where the church can lead—through counseling, support groups and partnerships with recovery ministries, churches can become centers of grace-filled restoration. These programs don’t just help individuals break free from addiction—they also offer healing for spouses, families and communities impacted by secrecy and shame.
For leaders wondering how to begin, the answer is simple but not easy: Start the conversation. Teach about healthy sexuality. Acknowledge the struggle. Equip your staff. Normalize recovery as part of spiritual growth.
The goal isn’t perfection; it’s transformation. In a world where porn is just a click away, the church must be a place where people can walk toward freedom together.
To explore the full research and download resources, visit Barna.com/Beyond-the-Porn-Phenomenon.