Dating Attitudes of Young Christians

CHARLESTON, S.C. - Sept. 24, 2019 - PRLog -- Teleios Research recently surveyed Christians about dating attitudes and the biblical purpose of marriage. Of the 1,818 responses, the majority of participants were: 35 or younger (93%); single (91%); female (75%); evangelical Christians (83%); and from the United States (51%) and Europe (15%).

Most (69%) said the primary biblical purpose of marriage is to represent the relationship between Christ and the church; while others noted it is for love between a man and a woman (42%), producing children (14%) and to continue the human race and/or populate the world (14%).

Further, most (74%) believed that marrying an unbeliever is not likely to fulfill God's will in marriage. Accordingly, 35% stated that when one partner is not practicing their faith the relationship cannot demonstrate the union between Christ and the church. In contrast, 30% stated that it was possible for a marriage to an unbeliever to fulfill God's will and that the more mature Christian partner could influence the unbelieving partner.

Half (50%) stated they had never dated an unbeliever; and half (51%) indicated they believe a Christian should never become romantically involved with an unbeliever.

Most (66%) who had dated a non-Christian said that their romantic relationship had been somewhat to very negative. Further, 25% indicated their own faith became worse in a romantic relationship with an unbeliever. Further, a vast majority would not recommend Christians become romantically involved with an unbeliever (74%).

Dr. William C. Stewart, co-founder of Teleios, commented "The love, devotion and deference between a believing husband and wife reflects the loving relationship between Christ and His church. The primary goal of Christian marriage is to attract unbelievers to the gospel. This is not possible by dating or marrying an unbeliever. Such relationships result in a negative, or at a minimum an unfulfilling, outcome."

This survey indicates that evangelical adolescents and millennials generally believe a biblically based marriage is between a Christian man and woman which then may fulfill God's will of the evangelical purpose of marriage as described by scripture (Ephesians 5:21-33). They also view a romantic relationship with an unbeliever as unfulfilling and do not recommend it to others.

All the findings of the survey can be found here (https://www.surveymonkey.com/results/SM-SM5853PW8/) as well as other findings from Teleios Research are on our website (http://www.teleiosresearch.com/).

WC Stewart, JA Stewart, LA Nelson

About Teleios - Teleios is a non-profit foundation that seeks to demonstrate the truth of scripture and the Christian faith through scientific methods by providing evidence for the positive results of a biblically-based lifestyle. Prior studies conducted by Teleios have shown that the practice of the Christian faith (praise, prayer, fellowship, service and Bible study) and security of salvation increases well-being while reducing guilt.