Vintage21 Church

Kevin Ghiold · Joined: 03 Apr 2008 Posts: 1 Location: Raleigh/Cary, NC

OK, so apparently I don't know anything about forums and posted this question in the wrong spot earlier so sorry about that.
Anyways, here's my question:
I realize there may not be just one answer, but I was wondering if yall had any advice on whether or not it's a good idea for people to date that go to different churches (the buildings)?
I realize that it would be ridiculous not to associate or hang out with people from other churches. However, due to the close nature of romantic relationships I wasn't sure if it would be unnecessarily straining to date someone that spends most of their time with another portion of the body of Christ. Any thoughts?

Pastor Nate · Joined: 25 Jan 2008 Posts: 18 Location: Raleigh, NC

Kevin,

It's a good thought and question. Biblical "pre-marital" dating relationship are a tricky subject to discuss on a forum, but one we should grab some time over coffee to talk about. However, hopefully this short response helps.

Yes. Being in a relationship with a girl from another church is fine - potentially even helpful. What needs to be defined is the nature of a"romantic relationship". Because, she is a Daughter of Jesus you have no romantic rights to her and your responsibility in the "relationship" is to make sure she stays righteous. You should always be thinking about her best interest all the time. She is your Sister. That doesn't mean that distance is necessary for healthy pre-marital God honoring relationship, but can be helpful in dealing with the temptations a dating relationship can bring. Healthy relationships aren't built on romance(a bi-product of a healthy relationship), but rather self-less character, a self-less character like Jesus. And in the end is something that can be seen from a distance.

...happy to chat in person about this.

Pastor Nate