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What Does the Bible Say About Dating and Marriage?

In today’s world of ever-evolving relationship norms and cultural expectations, many are left wondering: what does God really think about dating and marriage?

Whether you’re seeking your first serious relationship, navigating a courtship, or preparing for a lifelong commitment, it’s natural to want clarity that’s grounded in more than just opinion. Thankfully, the Bible offers timeless wisdom that speaks directly to the heart of this topic, addressing not only romantic love but also the purpose, boundaries, and beauty of marriage.

If you’re looking for honest, faith-based answers about love, dating, and marriage—answers that bring peace, clarity, and purpose—you’re in the right place.

In this article, you’ll gain Bible-based insights on:

Let’s explore what the Bible truly says about relationships that honour God, starting with the purpose of relationships and marriage.

The biblical purpose of relationships and marriage

God created relationships not merely for companionship, but to reflect His love and character.

From the beginning, the Bible teaches that marriage is a God-ordained covenant between a man and a woman (Genesis 2:24). It is designed to reflect Christ’s relationship with His Church—marked by sacrificial love, mutual submission, and unwavering commitment.

In a world that often sees dating and marriage as casual or contractual, God’s Word presents a far deeper and more sacred view.

Biblical relationships usually involve more than emotional or physical attraction. They begin with affection and mutual respect, aiming toward spiritual alignment and a shared purpose.

As Paul explains in 2 Corinthians 6:14, a relationship with a strong spiritual foundation that aligns with God’s principles is far more likely to thrive than one that doesn’t.

So, whether you are considering a dating relationship or preparing for marriage, always begin by asking: is this leading me closer to God? If the answer is no, then it may not be a relationship God is calling you to pursue.

With the purpose in mind, how should Christians approach dating relationships?

Key principles for godly dating and courtship

First, it’s important to distinguish between the world’s view of dating and biblical dating.

The world often promotes dating for fun, experimentation, or temporary companionship—sometimes without accountability or long-term intent. In contrast, biblical dating is intentional. It focuses on seeking a life partner and honoring God throughout the process.

The Bible reminds us that God’s will for us isn’t a passing relationship; it’s a relationship based in covenantal love that will draw us closer to Him:

“For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality; that each of you should know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor, not in passion of lust, like the Gentiles who do not know God” (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5, NKJV).

This means avoiding compromising situations, practicing self-control, and protecting your heart from emotional intimacy without a lifelong commitment.

Courting with wisdom also means seeking wise voices. Whether it’s a parent, spiritual mentor, or mentor couples who have modeled strong marriages, seeking guidance helps you make helpful, faith-driven choices. God never intended for us to walk the dating journey alone.

Let’s now delve into biblical guidance on sexual purity.

What the Bible says about sexual purity and boundaries

Physical intimacy within a marriage relationship is a gift from God, but sexual activity outside of marriage is considered sexual sin in the Bible.

Hebrews 13:4 states, “Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge” (NKJV).

In today’s culture, boyfriend/girlfriend relationships often include early physical contact that leads to sexual desire and sexual activity. But Scripture is clear: sexual purity is not old-fashioned—it’s protective. It guards the heart and honours the sacredness of intimacy within marriage.

The Bible paints it forcibly in the Song of Solomon:

“Young women of Jerusalem, I charge you
by the gazelles and the wild does of the field,
do not stir up or awaken love
until the appropriate time” ( Song of Solomon 2:7, CSB).

Temptation is real, especially in youth groups, college environments, or media-driven spaces where it’s normalized.

That’s why the Bible calls couples to flee from sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 6:18), rather than rationalize or minimize it. Practically, this means setting clear boundaries in your dating relationship, staying accountable, and recognizing that affections are reserved for a covenant.

Now, let us examine the concept of marital love and commitment.

The roles of love, commitment, and covenant in marriage

A silhouette photo of a couple embracing during the golden hour.

Photo by Rô Acunha

True love, as described in 1 Corinthians 13, is patient, kind, selfless, and enduring. It’s not just an emotion. It’s a decision.

In a God-ordained marriage relationship, love is expressed through showing honor, meeting each other’s needs, and committing to grow together.

This commitment is formalized through the wedding ceremony, but its weight carries far beyond the wedding day. It’s about living each day with intention, grace, and faith.

Marriage is a covenant—not a contract—and breaking it breaks something sacred. That’s why Malachi 2:16 says God hates divorce; not because He hates people, but because He loves what marriage represents.

It’s essential that people enter marriage with a clear understanding of the weight of the covenant.

This includes choosing not to become sexually involved before marriage, honouring vows even when it’s hard, and remaining committed even when the emotional spark dims. It also means relying on God when challenges come, and finding the right sources of support like counseling, prayer, and community.

So how can couples build a healthy, Christ-centered relationship in today’s world?

Practical Steps for Building Christ-Centered Relationships

Here are some practical ways to build a Godly relationship:

  • Start with Prayer: Seek God’s direction before entering any romantic relationship. Ask yourself: what does God say about this?
  • Align Spiritually: Ensure that both persons are believers or are committed to growing in faith together.
  • Establish Boundaries: Agree on boundaries around physical contact, sexual activity, and emotional openness.
  • Involve Community: Surround yourselves with wise counselors and mentor couples.
  • Practice Self-Control: Honour God with your body and actions. Don’t confuse lust with love.
  • Pursue Purpose Together: Build your relationship on shared mission, not just shared moments.

As you pursue a relationship or prepare for marriage, remember that God’s Word is a helpful compass, not a list of restrictions. It frees us to love in ways that are pure, purposeful, and pleasing to Him.

Let love reflect God

Dating and marriage are beautiful gifts, but they are not to be taken lightly. They reflect the heart of God, and they require wisdom, discipline, and devotion.

Whether you’re single, dating, or married, may your relationships be shaped by the truth of the Bible and sustained by God’s grace.

Are you ready to explore faith, love, and life from a biblical perspective?

Explore our Family and Relationship sections at Hope for Africa to gain deeper, Bible-based insights tailored to your season of life.

To get started, here are a few helpful reads:

Each of these reads is crafted to help you make wise, God-honouring choices in your relationships so that you can move forward with clarity, peace, and purpose.

Dive in today and find answers that are true, helpful, and deeply rooted in God’s Word.

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