Christian Dating Etiquette

Christian dating etiquette requires adhering to the principles outlined in the Bible. This is because Christians believe that the word of God is flawless and the Bible is the inspired word of God. Some themes found throughout the Bible for couples to consider when dating include "Do not lie," "Honor your father and your mother" and "Love your neighbor as yourself." Your neighbor includes all people as told by Jesus in the parable found in Luke 10:29-36 about a the good Samaritan. To apply this principle to dating, you would treat the other person as well or better than you want to be treated.
Studying the Bible for a few minutes each day will help you to understand and adhere to Christian dating etiquette.

Things You'll Need

• Bible Modest clothing

Instructions

1. Date only other Christian believers. In 2 Corinthians 6:14, the Bible says, "Do not be yoked with unbelievers." To be yoked refers to marriage, not dating specifically, but dating can lead to love and marriage. Spending time with someone of a different faith can cause you to make poor choices that you may regret later. It can make living together difficult because your priorities will be different.

2. Consider asking a nonbeliever, if you are really interested in dating this person, to visit your church and see what happens. Perhaps, with time, the person will become a Christian and then you can date.

3. Ask the father of the individual you want to date for permission to court or date his child, even his adult child. If you are female, seek your father's advice and guidance if you have an interest in a specific young man. By doing this, you show honor to your parents as outlined in Deuteronomy 5:16, even if you are already adults.

4. Dress in modest clothing for Christian dating. While your intent for the date may be platonic, clothing that is too revealing can cause a person to think impure thoughts and can lead to actions you may later regret.

5. Plan activities for your date. By keeping busy, you are less likely to make choices you may later regret that dishonor your Christian principles. Examples include attending church social activities, Christian concerts, movies and sporting events. Co-dating with other Christian couples is also a good choice to help keep hormones in check.

6. Refrain from having sexual relations during dating until you marry. In 1 Corinthians 7:9, the Bible says that if people who are dating "cannot control themselves, they should marry, for it is better to marry than to burn with passion." Further, in Hebrews 13:4, the Bible says, "Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure."

7. Tell the truth to each other. "Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are his delight." Proverbs 12:22 says a relationship built on truth and honesty can last a lifetime.

Tips & Warnings

• Studying your Bible for a few minutes each day will help you to grow in understanding of Christian etiquette and principles.

• Do not pretend to be a Christian to get a date. When your deceit is found out, your relationship will probably end abruptly.