The Bible does not describe dating as it exists today, but it gives clear principles for relationships that lead to marriage. All romantic involvement must be guided by purity, honor, and a shared commitment to Christ.
2 Corinthians 6:14 commands, “Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers.” A relationship that could lead to marriage must begin with spiritual unity—both must be truly born again and walking with the Lord.
1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 instructs, “For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality.” Any dating relationship must preserve purity and guard against lust. The body is not for immorality but for the Lord (1 Corinthians 6:13).
Honor and respect should define every interaction. 1 Timothy 5:1-2 tells believers to treat “younger women as sisters, with all purity.” This principle should shape how one pursues and interacts with the opposite sex.
The purpose of dating should not be casual recreation, but serious consideration of marriage. Proverbs 18:22 says, “He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the Lord.” The goal is not to play with emotions, but to seek a godly spouse in prayer and wisdom.
Patience, accountability, and guidance from mature believers are also vital. Proverbs 11:14 says, “Where there is no counsel, the people fall; but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.”