What Does the Bible Say About Relationships and Dating?
- Boundless Team
- May 12
- 5 min read
The Bible defines relationships and dating through the lens of self-sacrificial love, purity, and intentionality. By prioritizing Christ-centered character over cultural trends, believers in Memphis can build foundations for marriage that honor God, strengthen families, and reflect the enduring love of Jesus.
We’ve all felt the exhaustion of the modern dating cycle—the endless scrolling, the superficial connections, and the lingering question: Is there something more? At First Assembly Memphis, we believe your heart was designed for a deeper story, one written by a Creator who values your future more than the world values your profile.
The Search for Meaning in Modern Dating:
Navigating the world of dating in the 21st century often feels like wandering through a maze without a map. Between apps, social media trends, and shifting cultural standards, the search for a life partner can be overwhelming. However, for the believer in Memphis and beyond, the Bible provides a timeless blueprint for building relationships that last.
At First Assembly Memphis, we believe that relationships are not just about personal happiness, but about reflecting the glory of God. Whether you are grabbing coffee in Germantown or meeting someone through a Life Group in Cordova, the principles of Scripture remain the primary guide for your heart. Understanding what the Bible says about dating requires looking past the surface and focusing on the heart's alignment with Christ.
Building on the Rock: The Christ-Centered Foundation
Every healthy relationship must begin with a solid foundation. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus spoke about the wise man who built his house upon the rock (Matthew 7:24-27). In the context of dating, this "rock" is the person and work of Jesus Christ. Before you can successfully pursue a relationship with another person, your primary relationship must be with God.
Biblical dating is not about "finding the one" who completes you, but about being two people who are already being made complete in Christ. When both individuals prioritize their spiritual growth, the relationship becomes a secondary pursuit that supports their primary mission: serving God.
Definition Block: Purity
Purity: A state of heart and life characterized by holiness and a commitment to honor God with one's body and mind. In the Assemblies of God tradition, purity is seen as part of the ongoing process of sanctification, where the believer is set apart for God's purposes (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5).
The Path of Sanctification: Purity and Boundaries
One of the most counter-cultural aspects of Biblical dating is the call to purity. In a world that often prioritizes physical chemistry above all else, the Bible calls us to a higher standard. 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and that we were bought with a price.
Purity is not simply a list of "don'ts"; it is a "yes" to God's best. Setting boundaries in dating is an act of love for the other person and a sign of reverence for God. By protecting the intimacy reserved for marriage, you are honoring the future covenant you hope to build. In the 901 community, we encourage singles to seek accountability within their local church, finding mentors who can offer wisdom and prayer during the dating process.
Understanding Covenant: More Than a Contract
In modern culture, many view relationships as contracts: agreements that last as long as both parties are satisfied. The Bible, however, introduces the concept of Covenant.
Definition Block: Covenant
Covenant: A sacred, binding agreement between two parties, often initiated by God, that involves mutual promises and a lifelong commitment. Unlike a contract, which is based on performance, a covenant is based on faithfulness and sacrificial love (Malachi 2:14, Ephesians 5:25-33).
Practical Wisdom: Top 5 Biblical Relationship Standards
When evaluating a potential relationship, consider these five standards rooted in Scripture:
Shared Faith: 2 Corinthians 6:14 warns against being "unequally yoked." Ensure your partner shares a commitment to Christ and His Word.
Fruit of the Spirit: Look for evidence of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
Respect and Honor: A partner should honor your boundaries and treat you with the dignity of a brother or sister in Christ (1 Timothy 5:1-2).
Self-Sacrifice: True love is not selfish. It seeks the well-being of the other person above its own desires (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).
Community Affirmation: Seek the counsel of godly friends and family. Proverbs 15:22 reminds us that "plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed."
The 901 Connection: Community and Dating
Relationships do not happen in a vacuum. One of the greatest gifts for singles in Memphis, Bartlett, and Arlington is the gift of a healthy local church. Engaging in Life Groups or serving in local ministries provides a natural environment to meet like-minded believers.
Dating within the context of a local community allows others to see your relationship and offer support. At First Assembly Memphis, our mission is to strengthen families, and that mission begins long before the wedding day. It starts with the way we date and the intentions we set.
The Global Pathway: Boundless Online Church
We recognize that not everyone seeking a Christ-centered relationship is located in the Memphis area. Some may be traveling, deployed, or living in regions where a Spirit-filled community is hard to find. This is why Boundless Online Church exists.
Through Boundless, you can find digital discipleship and a community of believers who value the same Biblical standards. Whether you are in the 901 or halfway across the world, you don't have to navigate relationships alone. The principles of Scripture are "boundless" and apply to every culture and geography.
Conclusion: Taking the Next Step
What does the Bible say about relationships? It says that you are loved by a Creator who wants the best for you. It says that your value is not found in your relationship status, but in your identity as a child of God. As you pursue dating, do so with the courage of the Holy Spirit and the wisdom of the Word.
Trust that God is the author of every good story. Whether He is calling you to a season of singleness to focus on your mission, or leading you toward a lifelong covenant, He is faithful.
Take Action:
Pray: Ask God to align your heart with His desires before seeking a partner.
Study: Dive into the book of Proverbs for wisdom on character and discernment.
Connect: Join a local or digital community to build friendships that sharpen your faith.
Want to go deeper?
If you're in Memphis, Cordova, Arlington, Bartlett, or the 901, we would love to welcome you in person to explore our events and community: 🌐 www.famemphis.org
Outside the area? Join our online church community for discipleship and connection: 🌐 www.boundlessonlinechurch.org
Need prayers? Text us day or night at 1-901-213-7341. (Note: This line is for prayer and pastoral support, not emergency services. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent help, please call 911.)
You are not alone.
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