Some of the messages we've presented have taken the position that Christians can apply their faith in such a way that they can still work within the system they've inherited.
Other messages have stressed that Christians need to be much more counter-cultural.
Ivory French casket with scenes of romances – possibly a courtship gift.
And with today’s modern attitudes toward dating, we’re tempted to look to serve ourselves first before thinking of the needs of others.
All these factors have led to a sharp decrease in the idea of “courtship” as opposed to dating.
And it is my conviction that the wordly system of dating, as it is currently conducted by most people, is far from God's original plan, as described in the Bible.
I intend to expose the flaws I see in today's dating model, and at the same time point out how Biblical courtship addresses these flaws.
As Christians, our primary purpose in life is to seek and serve God, and fulfill our destiny in Him. We need to find out what God's plan for relationships is, and then follow it. Let's study what we are doing now against what God has described in His word, and draw up a new standard. Other terms, such as 'betrothal' or even 'biblical dating' could be used, although they would possibly be confusing.
The current model that we are using is ineffective, at best. Dating was invented in the early part of this century.Unfortunately, however, our culture teaches our singles to engage in multiple dating relationships as though it were a normal and useful practise.The truth is, the modern dating system has only been around for less than a century. Instead of enjoying their teen years as they build skills and character, they are getting distracted into the quagmire of relationships that they are not equipped to conduct.The teen years are those where they have the fewest responsibilities at the same time as having their greatest energy level. They should be an opportunity to develop a deep, intimate and personal walk with God, establishing themselves as young warriors who know the Father and have overcome the evil one (1 John ).A courtship may be an informal and private matter between two people or may be a public affair, or a formal arrangement with family approval.