Should Christians Date?

Dating is probably one of the most interesting and crucial part of anyone's life. Going out to fun locations to determine your compatibility with potential partners is a task many people enjoy. I have in the past and recent times come across many teachings that instruct strongly against dating. Instead, youths are encouraged to pick one person, usually within the church, and once they do, there is no going back. 

I am of the opinion that youths need to date in order to make well-informed decisions regarding their choice of a life partner. While many may frown at the idea of dating and point out the many potential dangers that await youngsters who date, I strongly believe the pros outweigh the cons. 

Dating is not a sinful activity as many people believe. On the contrary, dating creates a personal space for two people who are interested in each other. It allows the two individuals to learn the basics about each other before they decide to head to the pastor's office and indicate their desire to be in a courtship. Dating is the beginning of an exclusive friendship where both individuals can decide if they want to let the other person in or not. Dating should be a pre-requisite to courtship because it has what I like to call an 'out-clause', without any drama involved.

Courtship is the step couples take before marriage; they spend time together, discuss more serious issues, plan their lives together, etc. In other words, with courtship, there is a 95% chance that the couple involved will definitely get married. When couples are pushed directly into courtship, especially under the scrutiny of the church, it may be difficult for them to walk away even though they are unhappy. In cases where couples decide to part ways, there is often so much drama involved, one would think they are getting a divorce. On the other hand, with dating, there is no pressure. It's about two people meeting up to see a movie, talk over dinner, go bowling, go kart racing...etc. 

Dating is the fun aspect many people are robbed of. They are thrown into the serious task of courtship, making the relationship rather laborious, and more of a job than an interesting adventure. I believe christian youths should be allowed to enjoy dates. What do you think? XOXO