When Adam first saw Eve in the Garden of Eden, there was no doubt the she was meant to be his lifelong mate. However, as time passed, finding true love became a much more confusing business. Christians especially struggle keeping up with the trends, not knowing whether practices such as online dating align with the words of the Bible. Is ‘dating’ a sin in God’s eye? Are there any verses to help you in the maze of online matchmaking? What kind of other sources are available to strengthen your relationship? Luckily for you, we have all the answers you need.
Dating Examples & Verses in the Bible
The Bible is a rich source of quotes and advice that can guide the reader to a fulfilling life. Although most of the stories or verses don’t explicitly touch on the subject of courtship, there are several suggestions on how to approach other people. First of all, it’s important to be with someone who shares your passion for Christianity:
Have faith and love, and enjoy the companionship of those who love the Lord and have pure hearts. (II Timothy 2:22, TLB)
When sharing the company of someone, don’t judge them by their looks and instead value their virtues:
Be beautiful inside, in your hearts, with the lasting charm of a gentle and quiet spirit that is so precious to God. (I Peter 3:4, TLB)
If your partner turns out to be aggressive or has bad qualities, then cease contact with them immediately:
Keep away from angry, short-tempered men, lest you learn to be like them and endanger your soul. (Proverbs 22:24, TLB)
Instead, spend your time with people who are supportive and have a good attitude:
Is there any such thing as Christians cheering each other up? Do you love me enough to want to help me?… Then make me truly happy by loving each other, working together with one heart and mind and purpose. (Philippians 2:1-2, TLB)
As you can see, the teachings found in the Bible fit dating perfectly: find someone who shares your values, cherishes your heart and is – most importantly – a good person.
Dating Questions Answered by the Bible
When you are uncertain about what to do, the best answer is to read the Bible, because its pages hold timeless wisdom. There is even guidance on whether or not to engage in modern practices, such as matchmaking.
What Does the Bible Say About (Online) Dating?
Although you will most certainly not find any mention of the internet, there are a couple of verses about the most sacred relationship between man and woman. God himself intended mankind to walk in couples, which is why he created Eve for Adam: “It isn’t good for man to be alone; I will make a companion for him, a helper suited to his needs.” (Genesis 2:18, TLB) That’s why finding a lifelong partner is commendable in God’s eye. Still, even when you are committed to someone, you should remember to love the Lord above anything else: “Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.” (Matthew 10:37)
Can I Date Non Believers?
There is a verse in 2 Corinthians 6:14, that is clearly against this idea: “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?” However, even Christians argue that this verse is a warning against idolatry and not dating. Still, tying your life to someone who doesn’t follow the teachings of the Lord is a hard and testing road to walk. As a Christian, your life is built on the foundation of Jesus’s teachings, but if your partner does not understand or follow your beliefs and devotion then this could create a rift between the two of you. But on the other hand, God probably has plans with your relationship, perhaps giving you the opportunity to show a non-believer your ways and grant them true happiness.
Is Dating a Sin Before God?
Courting someone inherently isn’t a sin when your intentions are noble. Getting too physical is, however, a grave sin. “But sexual sin is never right: our bodies were not made for that, but for the Lord… No other sin affects the body as this one does. When you sin this sin it is against your own body.” (I Corinthians 6:13,18, TLB) The Bible is clear about keeping both your soul and body pure, because Christ is also pure.
Bible Studies for Dating Couples
Of course, the Bible isn’t the only source aiding you in dating. There are special courses, videos and even smartphone apps dedicated to helping fellow Christians find passionate companionship.
NIV Couples' Devotional Bible
Deep Love Church Campaign DVD Kit
The Mingling of Souls DVD Curriculum
Bible Study Books for Dating Couples
In case you dislike the idea of listening to lectures, the second best course of action is to pick up a book. The shelves are full of enlightening reading material that synergizes with the Bible’s teachings. The writers are recognized authors of the Christian community, tackling subjects singles usually struggle with.
Devotions For Dating Couples: Building A Foundation For Spiritual Intimacy
The Mingling of Souls: God's Design for Love, Marriage, Sex, and Redemption
The Ten Commandments of Dating: Time-Tested Laws for Building Successful Relationships
Best Dating Sites of 2022
| Rank | Dating Site | Info | Visit |
1 | Editor's Choice 2022  |
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