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The story of how Isaac and Rebekah got married is a good example of dating in the Old Testament: Rebekah came riding into town on a camel, she saw Isaac and asked who he was, Isaac came up to her and heard that she was the person who he should marry, and he took her into his tent and "loved her" (Genesis 24:64-67). Indeed, "dating" was different in Scripture, if it could even be called dating at all. In the New Testament, people were married as a result of arranged marriages.
However, the Bible gives a great deal of advice on relationships. Paul recommends staying single in 1 Corinthians 7, but he also says that getting married can be a good decision. Also, the instructions on avoiding sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, anger, jealousy, and having gentleness, self-control and kindness in Galatians 5:19-24 give good guidelines for learning how to be in God-honoring relationships. - Since no clear Biblical guideline exists on teenage dating relationships, teenagers should learn to see things from Biblical perspectives. One of the most prevalent myths about dating in our culture has been perpetuated by Hollywood. There, the concepts of "being in love" and "finding your soulmate" are constantly portrayed. However, these ideas are not necessary biblical. True love as seen in the Bible is a choice, and there is nothing in Scripture that suggests there is only one "soulmate" for each person. When dating, then, don't follow the pattern seen in movies.
- In addition, set boundaries at the onset of any dating relationship. Establish how far is too far, and never compromise. Also, allow other people into your dating relationship. Ask Christian friends, parents and mentors advice on dating. Allow great transparency in your dating relationship. When this happens, you are able to let people see how the dating process is working, and you will be more receptive to advice from others. Finally, don't feel the pressure to date. Not dating can seem like a lonely and painful idea during the teenage years, but many people have been hurt for the rest of their lives by mistakes made in teenage dating. Approach any relationship cautiously, and allow yourself plenty of time to make decisions about your life.
