The Golden Rule in Christian Dating: Love, Judge Not, and Put Others First

The Golden Rule in Christian Dating

Everyone knows the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” But what if we applied that same principle to dating? What if we treated each other with the same respect and kindness that we hope to receive in return?

As Christians, we believe that the Bible is the ultimate guidebook for life. And while it doesn’t give us specific instructions on how to date, it does give us principles to live by. So, let’s take a look at how the Golden Rule applies to Christian dating.

Love Your Neighbor as Yourself

One of the most important principles in Christian dating is to love your neighbor as yourself. This means treating the person you’re dating with the same care and concern that you would want them to show you. It means putting their needs and desires before your own.

Jesus said, “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31). This is not just a suggestion, it’s a command. We are called to love others in the same way that we love ourselves. This means showing them kindness, respect, and compassion.

When it comes to dating, this means treating the person you’re with as if they were your best friend. Listen to them, be honest with them, and try to understand their point of view. Don’t be selfish or self-centered, but instead focus on what you can do to make the other person feel loved and cared for.

Do Not Judge

Another important principle in Christian dating is to not judge others. Jesus said, “Do not judge, or you too will be judged” (Matthew 7:1). This means that we should not be quick to criticize or condemn others, but instead we should try to see things from their perspective.

When it comes to dating, this means not judging someone based on their past mistakes or their current struggles. Instead, we should try to understand where they’re coming from and offer them grace and forgiveness. This doesn’t mean that we should ignore red flags or warning signs, but it does mean that we should approach the other person with an open mind and a compassionate heart.

Put Others First

Finally, the Golden Rule reminds us to put others first. Jesus said, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you” (Matthew 7:12). This means that we should not only treat others with kindness and respect, but we should also go out of our way to help them and serve them.

When it comes to dating, this means being willing to sacrifice your own desires and preferences for the sake of the other person. It means putting their needs and goals ahead of your own and doing whatever you can to support them and encourage them.

The Importance of Boundaries

While the Golden Rule is a great principle to live by, it’s important to remember that it’s not a license to do whatever we want. There are still boundaries that need to be respected and honored in Christian dating.

For example, the Bible tells us to flee from sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 6:18). This means that we should avoid any kind of sexual activity until we are married. It also means that we should be careful about the kinds of physical affection we engage in with our partner.

Additionally, the Bible tells us to avoid being unequally yoked with unbelievers (2 Corinthians 6:14). This means that we should not enter into a romantic relationship with someone who does not share our faith. While we can certainly be friends with unbelievers and share the gospel with them, dating is a different matter altogether.

Conclusion

The Golden Rule is a powerful principle that can guide us in all areas of life, including dating. By treating others with the same respect and kindness that we hope to receive in return, we can build strong, healthy relationships that honor God.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that dating will be easy or without its challenges. But by following the principles set forth in the Bible, we can navigate the ups and downs of dating with grace and wisdom.

So, let’s make it our goal to love our neighbors as ourselves, to not judge others, and to put others first. In doing so, we will honor God and build relationships that bring joy and fulfillment to our lives.

References:

• Mark 12:31


• Matthew 7:1


• Matthew 7:12


• 1 Corinthians 6:18


• 2 Corinthians 6:14