Introduction
Dr. Jim stresses that choosing a spouse is the most crucial decision people make, second only to their relationship with God. This aligns with biblical priorities of God, family, and church. Dr. Jim aims to guide students in navigating dating with the goal of finding a lifelong partner
Scripture Texts
Proverbs 18:22; Genesis 2:20-25; Genesis 1:28; Hebrews 13:4; Mark 10:2-9; Psalm 139:13-16; 2 Corinthians 6:14-18; Proverbs 25:19; Proverbs 22:24-25; Romans 13:14
Main Points or Ideas
- Dating is defined as an appointment or consistent pairing, with its ultimate purpose being to find a spouse. It also offers social enjoyment and personal growth opportunities.
- God's design for marriage is a permanent, one-man-one-woman union for life, instituted from creation, where sex is honorable and blessed within its bounds. Marriage is intended by God for perfecting individuals, and any problem within it can be fixed with God's help if both partners are willing to obey Him.
- While the Bible is silent on specific dating practices, it provides relevant principles for navigating this Western cultural norm.
- Relationships should ideally progress through a "pyramid" starting with friendship, then casual, special, steady dating, leading to engagement and finally marriage, emphasizing that each level relies on the success of the one beneath it.
- A healthy, God-honoring acceptance of oneself is foundational before seeking a strong dating relationship, as self-worth comes from God, not a partner. While accepting inherent traits, individuals should actively improve controllable aspects like hygiene and communication skills.
- It is crucial to date only true born-again believers, as Scripture warns against being "unequally yoked with unbelievers" (2 Corinthians 6:14-18).
- Key questions to evaluate a potential partner include: their active involvement in church, respect for God's Word, honesty (as trust is fundamental), and their ability to control their temper.
Conclusion
This first message in the 3-part series establishes biblical foundations for dating, focusing on its ultimate purpose of God-designed marriage. It emphasizes building relationships on character and spiritual alignment, carefully evaluating partners, and maintaining personal purity with God's guidance.
