Dating has been an occurrence that has evolved for thousands of years. Over the generations, there are many stipulations to dating that has changed. In some faiths, however, there are rules that have followed for many years. One such faith is Christianity, and one such rule is abstinence.

Sex and Christian dating have long been a closely bound topic for so many. In the Christian faith, it is often taught that sex should not occur until marriage. Due to this rule in the Christian faith, there are many abstinence programs that are offered thru not only the church, but other outlets as well. It has been stated that consummation of a relationship should not occur unless it is between a “man and wife”. Sex may be on the minds of many teens, and there is no doubt that it can be on the minds of Christian teens as well. Many churches now offer “abstinence” pledges – pledges that the teens sign stating that they will remain abstinent until marriage. Although there is no real repercussion from the church itself should the abstinence be broken, the pledge is merely a pledge to oneself that they will not have sex until after marriage.

Religion indeed plays an important role in the Christian dating scene. Christian dating and sex is not the only religion that calls for abstinence until after marriage. In some countries, it is punishable by death to have sex before marriage. Although the Christian “laws” do not follow this system of punishment, there are often other means of repentance thru the church. Confessing one’s sins to God and asking for forgiveness is often one of the main occurrences that will happen in a Christian church.  Talking to church elders is also another way that Christians may deal with having had sex before marriage. Above all, realizing that no one is perfect, and that everyone sins is by far the best way that many Christians approach sex should it occur before marriage.

Sex, an often taboo subject yet closely regarded in many religious aspects, is by no doubt discussed in Christian churches. Whether it is to push abstinence for teens and young adults, or to merely talk about safe sex while dating, Christians believe that sex is sacred, personable, and, often times, on a religious aspect. It is safe to say, that for many people, not just Christians, that sex is often all of the above. Sex should not be seen as taboo, but merely a topic that should be well discussed and, in some instances, embraced by the religion and the church. Knowing when it is a good time to have sex, as well as practicing safe sex is also often highly talked about in the Christian religion.

Sex is not the main focus point when it comes to Christian dating. Although it does play an important role that can be brought up time and again, it does not have to be the centrifugal force of a Christian relationship. Knowing when to say no, and keeping the faith in check are great ways to separate sex and dating in a Christian relationship.