Is Christian Internet Dating, Speed Dating…etc Ok? (Part- 1)

Spawned by our recent conversation on the SingleOnlineSeminars.com, I figured I would share my thoughts on these in a two or three part series depending on response. Lets us consider in part 1  bringing  dating and internet dating into context.

The dating process can be a good experience for some or a dreadful proposal for others; much depends on your own personal experience. As a single, I am sure you have encountered people either from work, church, family or friends who offered to set you up on a blind date. I have had my share of these introductions and some were civil and ended on friendly terms, yet I can still remember a few that were dates from hell (figuratively speaking). Some people have found success this way and ended up getting married, but this is not the type of dating I am referring to. Dating has indeed evolved. So being a Christian where do you go when bars or party clubs are out of the question? A new wave that has really gained wide acceptance is Internet dating, speed dating, and dating services.

Internet Dating

When this type of service first came out several years ago, people were too embarrassed to admit that they were using the Internet to meet other singles. It was almost taboo. At the time it was seemingly limited to those who were computer savvy and understood its nuances. Currently, it is much easier to use. People from many parts of the world and from all lifestyles are going online signing up on single online dating websites daily. Some people, in fact, manage multiple accounts at different websites at one time to increase their odds of meeting their future spouse. There are dating sites that are niche-specific in the cyber world. A few examples are Christian sites, Jewish sites, Catholic sites, and Sports sites. There are also age-minded sites (like thirty-something). In addition, there are ethnic sites and divorced single parents’ sites. I personally have tried both the popular secular sites and Christian sites. It can be a bit of work, going through e-mails and small talk to qualify someone of interest to engage in conversation that is more meaningful. In addition, some website databases do not have large volumes of people to search as some of the popularly advertised ones do. Overall, I did meet some interesting people, but (in my view) this was not for me. Too many people are shallow and are interested in good looks or a terrific body, money, or you can guess the rest. Fortunately, there are some people who have met online and have wed. Although it is still too early to understand the long-term statistics on this type of marriage, these Internet newlyweds absolutely swear by it. This type of dating is not for everyone, and if you choose to try it, my advice is first use common sense. Secondly, always understand and follow the security disclosure, conduct, and privacy protection policies on each site. If they do not have one, then do not set up an account. Thirdly, communicate your faith and beliefs before heading into deeper conversations. The Bible tells us by their fruit you shall know them. The Word of God will either draw them or scare them away.

Next time I’ll talk about speed dating. Be safe out there.