Episode 354: Have We Kissed Dating Goodbye?

The hosts of Three Guys Theologizing confront a pressing cultural question: has Christian dating become obsolete in the modern world? With a Reformed theological lens, Kyle Borg and Pastor Barry York argue that while the modern concept of 'dating' isn't explicitly mentioned in Scripture, the biblical principles of holiness, intentionality, and marriage as a sacred covenant provide a robust framework for navigating romantic relationships. They reject casual dating as spiritually dangerous, advocating instead for a disciplined, Christ-centered 'courtship' model rooted in parental guidance, wisdom from Proverbs, and a clear purpose: marriage. The conversation reveals that the real issue isn't whether dating exists, but whether it's being conducted with biblical fidelity—where boundaries are set, parents are consulted, and the ultimate goal is not romantic fulfillment but the honoring of God’s design for marriage. Even in heartbreak, they insist, a Christian can honor Christ by maintaining integrity, respect, and grace. The episode dismantles the myth of 'casual' dating as a neutral or harmless phase, showing how it often leads to emotional entanglement, moral compromise, and spiritual drift. Instead, they champion a model where young people are trained in discernment, maturity, and self-control.