Online dating has become one of the most common ways people meet today. According to Pew Research, more than half of Americans under 30 have used dating apps, and many relationships—even marriages—have started there.

For many Christians, though, online dating raises important questions. Is it wise? Is it dangerous? Is it something believers should avoid entirely?

Like any tool, it can be used wisely or foolishly. The key is not simply whether someone uses online dating, but whether they approach it with biblical wisdom, spiritual maturity, and intentionality.

Before thinking about finding the right person, Christians should first focus on becoming the right person.

One of the most important questions a believer can ask is: Am I spiritually and emotionally prepared for a godly relationship? Jesus said in Matthew 6:33, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness.” A healthy relationship cannot replace a healthy walk with God.

Ben shared personally about a season in his own life when he had drifted spiritually and knew there were areas that needed correction before he could properly lead a future wife. That honesty points to an important truth: unresolved spiritual struggles do not disappear in dating relationships—they usually grow.

Online dating especially can magnify weaknesses if someone enters it from a place of loneliness, insecurity, or spiritual compromise. That is why preparation matters.

The session also emphasized the importance of biblical standards. Christians should determine beforehand what convictions and priorities matter most in a relationship. Amos 3:3 asks, “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” If a believer waits until emotions are involved to decide what standards matter, compromise becomes much easier.

Seeking wise counsel is also essential. Proverbs 11:14 reminds us that “in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.” Mature Christians, pastors, mentors, and trusted friends can help provide clarity and accountability.

Consider this important advice: don’t let the relationship exist only behind a screen.

Text conversations and phone calls can create emotional closeness, but people are often very different in person than they appear online. Sometimes the first meeting in person is a disaster; other times, it’s the beginning of a great relationship.

For that reason, it is wise to meet in a safe, public environment relatively early rather than building months of emotional attachment online. Men, protect the woman by making sure it’s a public place. Girls, insist on the meeting being public, and be in contact with people who are nearby and able to help you if necessary.

Safety should also be taken seriously. Meeting strangers requires wisdom and caution. Public places, accountability, and communication with trusted friends or family members are important practical safeguards.

Proverbs 4:23 says, “Keep thy heart with all diligence.” That principle is especially important in online dating.

One helpful way to do this is through accountability. Dating should not happen in complete isolation. Having a trusted friend, mentor, or spiritual leader who can ask honest questions and speak truthfully can provide protection from emotional blindness.

Online dating can be emotionally draining. Constant rejection, comparison, and disappointment can weigh heavily on someone’s heart and mind. Taking breaks is sometimes necessary and healthy.

Perhaps one of the most important reminders is this: the people behind the profiles are real people (unless, of course, you’re dealing with a scammer, which is a real threat that should be taken very seriously). They have real emotions, real hopes, and real struggles. Christians should approach online dating with kindness, maturity, and respect—not treating others as disposable.