Can Anyone Give A Summary of Courting?

[Mike312]

Just wondering exactly what it is. I'm not in the dating scene at all so I don't keep up with this type of stuff. Thx.

 

[desi]

Its dating without sex. Strange as it sounds, its true from the word around here.

 

[jay_swift]

Its dating without sex. Strange as it sounds, its true from the word around here.

That's what they say.

 

[JVD]

It's getting to know someone of the opposite sex with the express purpose of finding out if he/she would be good marriage material.

It is being up-front and honest about the marriage possiblity.

It is getting to know these people in safe ways that would not lead to emotional bonds or sexual bonds before you know them well.

It isn't flirting.

It isn't dating just to have fun...it's serious business

 

[FaithfulServant]

For information about Biblical courting there are many books out there. Two of them are:

"I kissed Dating Goodbye" and "Boy Meets Girl", both written by joshua harris. They give very specific descriptions and examples of courtship.

 

[ardeur]

My parents took it to be: a family-oriented affair where the couple was serious about marriage and their time together was closely monitored to prevent falling into temptations that dating usually procures. It is a time to make decisions for, and to prepare for marriage (before the engagement stage). This always confused me because I wondered what one was supposed to do during the phase where you're getting to know the person, yet talking and/or considering marriage was not appropriate. Also, what does one do when you're hours if not states away from your family because of being in college? In that situation I guess having a church member, or close spiritual friend (any of the like), being involved in the relationship would work. I can't say that I've followed to "rules" for courting to the T, but that probably has to do with him living 1500 miles away at the moment. For me, it's following the principle of the matter that counts.

 

[silentpoet]

My parents took it to be: a family-oriented affair where the couple was serious about marriage and their time together was closely monitored to prevent falling into temptations that dating usually procures. It is a time to make decisions for, and to prepare for marriage (before the engagement stage). This always confused me because I wondered what one was supposed to do during the phase where you're getting to know the person, yet talking and/or considering marriage was not appropriate.

I am in the getting to know her phase myself and wonder what is appropriate. We did talk the other day and mention that marriage was a possibility down the line. But that is so far off. Right now we are just trying to get to know each other. I wish to be appropriate and do all the right things. But what is appropriate when we are just starting out?

On our first date we went and saw Shrek 2. Then we went to the park and walked around the lake holding hands. Then we drove to a nearby local lookout area to just enjoy the scenery, it is not one of those makeout places it is just a little widespot on the highway where you can see beautiful scenery. Then we went and ate dinner. Then we drove around for awhile and talked. Looking back I think it was appropriate and we did not face undue temptations. By that I mean I feel I did not put us in any situations where temptation could take hold.

I have just started reading the Boy Meets Girl book as reccomended above. And let me tell you I am nervous because there is so much to get right. I do want to protect her heart and mine. I do want to serve God in this relationship, but I have never really had a relationship with a girlfriend where God was a big part of it. And I am trying not to feel too much too fast like before. But that is hard when you find a girl who has so many of the qualities you are looking for and she is actually interested in you.