Christian Relationships: What Does the Bible Say About Dating

Many people face the dilemma of dating their partner but being concerned about how to remain steadfast in their beliefs while doing do. In such circumstances, it is pivotal to understand the concept of dating in the light of biblical principles and apply them to modern relationships. While the Bible doesn't explicitly mention "dating," it offers foundational guidance on relationships, purity, and marriage that can inform a godly approach to dating.

Dating is an essential part of modern relationships, but for Christians, it can come with unique considerations. In today’s world, dating as a Christian means understanding how to honor God while building relationships. Many wonder, "What does the Bible say about dating?" This article will dive into biblical perspectives on dating, godly dating, and how to manage relationships in a way that aligns with Christian values.

Understanding Biblical Principles on Relationships

The Bible emphasizes purity, commitment, and intentionality in relationships. Modern dating, characterized by casual encounters and a focus on personal satisfaction, often contrasts with these biblical values. In contrast, biblical relationships prioritize glorifying God and serving others.

Is Dating a Sin?

Dating itself isn't labeled as a sin in the Bible. However, the nature and conduct within a dating relationship determine its alignment with biblical teachings. Engaging in sexual immorality or forming bonds that lead one away from faith can be sinful. Therefore, it's crucial to approach dating with a commitment to upholding Christian values.

Purpose of Dating

For Christians, dating should be a purposeful journey toward marriage. It's a time to assess compatibility in faith, values, and life goals. This intentional approach ensures that the relationship aligns with the biblical depiction of marriage as a sacred union reflecting Christ's relationship with the Church.

Key Bible Verses About Relationships

• 2 Corinthians 6:14: "Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common?" This verse underscores the importance of sharing faith with a potential partner.
  
• Proverbs 27:17: "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." A godly relationship should foster mutual spiritual growth and encouragement.

Christian Dating Advice

1. Prioritize Spiritual Compatibility: Ensure that both partners share a commitment to their faith, as this forms the foundation of the relationship.
   
   
2. Maintain Purity: Set clear boundaries to honor God with your bodies and avoid sexual immorality.
   
   
3. Seek Wise Counsel: Involve trusted mentors or spiritual leaders who can provide guidance and accountability.
   
   
4. Communicate openly: Discuss expectations, boundaries, and intentions to ensure both partners are aligned.
   
   
5. Be Patient and Trust in God's Timing: Allow the relationship to develop naturally, trusting that God's plan will unfold in His perfect timing.

Godly Dating vs. Worldly Dating

Many Christian couples today struggle because their dating habits mirror the world more than the Word. Worldly dating often focuses on emotional highs, physical attraction, and instant gratification. But godly dating is deeply rooted in spiritual growth, self-discipline, and glorifying God through the relationship.

• Godly dating asks, “Is this relationship pushing me closer to Christ?”
  
  
• Worldly dating asks, “Does this make me feel good right now?

This distinction helps Christians stay aligned with purpose over pleasure.

Practical Steps for Christian Couples

Here are real, actionable ways Christian couples can date with intention and maturity:

Set Shared Goals Early

Talk openly about your purpose in dating. If both partners agree that marriage is the goal, it helps avoid wasted time and heartbreak.

Engage in Joint Bible Study

Growing spiritually together helps deepen your connection and ensures your values stay aligned.

Limit Alone Time in Private Settings

Protect purity by meeting in safe, public places or with groups. Temptation is real—even for mature believers.

Serve Together

Volunteering or serving at church as a couple builds teamwork and reveals each other’s character in real situations.

Stay Accountable

Ask trusted mentors or church leaders to guide and check in regularly with you both.

Bible Verses About Dating (With Explanation)

Corinthians 6:14 (NIV)

“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?”

Explanation:

This verse is often used to teach Christians about choosing a partner with shared faith. A strong, God-honoring relationship begins with spiritual alignment. If you're dating someone who doesn't share your love for Christ, it can create tension and spiritual compromise.

Corinthians 13:4-7 (NIV)

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud... It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

Explanation:

This is the biblical definition of love—and it's the kind of love Christians should pursue in dating. If your relationship isn’t patient, kind, or selfless, it’s time to pause and reassess.

Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

Explanation:

Dating can stir up deep emotional connections. This verse reminds us to be wise and intentional with our emotions. Don’t give your heart away too quickly—emotional purity matters just as much as physical purity.

Song of Solomon 2:7 (NIV)

“Do not arouse or awaken love until it so desires.”

Explanation:

This is a warning to wait. Don’t rush into romantic or physical intimacy before the right time. A healthy Christian relationship respects God's timing and values emotional and physical boundaries.

Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV)

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves.”

Explanation:

Dating should not be about “what can I get out of this?” but about serving one another in love. A godly relationship is humble and selfless, just like Christ.

Thessalonians 4:3-5 (NIV)

“It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality… not in passionate lust like the pagans, who do not know God.”

Explanation:

This is a clear call to purity in dating. God's design for sexual intimacy is reserved for marriage. Avoiding sexual sin is a way to honor both God and your partner.

Encouragement for Singles Waiting to Date

If you’re not currently in a relationship, that’s okay. God’s timing is never late. Use this season to:

• Grow in your faith.
• Serve in your church or community.
• Understand your non-negotiables in a future relationship.
• Work on personal healing if past relationships caused wounds.

When You’re Ready to Take the Next Step

If you’re dating as a Christian and both feel a growing sense of commitment, it’s natural to begin talking about the future. Here are a few questions to explore together:

• Are we both ready for the responsibilities of marriage?
• Are we involving God and godly counsel in our decisions?
• Do we handle conflict in healthy, respectful ways?
• Are we equally invested in this relationship?

If the answers are solid, prayerfully consider moving toward engagement and marriage.

Christian Relationships and Emotional Purity

Physical purity is often discussed, but emotional purity is just as critical. Oversharing deep emotions or dreams too early can create a false intimacy that the relationship isn’t ready for.

Ask yourself
:

• Am I giving someone access to parts of my heart that should be reserved for marriage?”
• Are we building emotional ties faster than spiritual ones?”
  
  

Taking things slow emotionally protects both people from deep hurt and keeps God at the center.

Final Thoughts

In summary, while the Bible doesn't provide explicit instructions on dating, it offers timeless principles that can guide Christians in forming relationships that honor God and lead to fulfilling, godly marriages. Christian dating is more than just finding someone to spend time with; it’s about building a relationship that aligns with God’s will. By focusing on Godly dating principles, couples can develop strong, Christ-centered relationships that honor God and prepare them for a lifelong commitment. Remember, dating is not just about romance; it's also about growing together in faith and love.

 

FAQs

1. What is the purpose of dating?

In a Christian context, dating serves as a means to evaluate a potential partner for marriage, focusing on spiritual, emotional, and life compatibility.

2. What does God say about dating?

While the Bible doesn't directly address dating, it provides principles on purity, love, and commitment that should guide a Christian's approach to relationships.

3. How to have a godly relationship?

A godly relationship is built on shared faith, mutual respect, purity, and a commitment to honor God together.

4. How to date as a Christian?

Christians should date with intentionality, seeking partners who share their faith and values, maintaining purity, and involving their faith community for support and guidance.

5. Can Christians date before marriage?

Yes, Christians can date before marriage, provided the relationship aligns with biblical principles of purity and intentionality and seeks to honor God.