The End Goal Is not Dating

An analogy is a comparison between two things in order to explain or clarify a certain subject. The Bible uses marriage as an analogy for the Gospel in order to provide for us a clearer picture of what it is. However, one thing that is never used is the idea of “dating.” Does that mean that dating contradicts the Gospel? No! But what this does mean is that God values marriage and, ultimately, the only reason to date is for the end goal of marriage. 

Some resist this idea because they would argue that the purpose of dating is “to learn what we like/don’t like,” or “it’s fun,” or even “why not?” However, all three of these ideas look to satisfy self rather than to serve others. In any relationship discussed in the Bible, God commands us to die to ourselves. Therefore, if dating is done for selfish ambition, it is not biblical. If God desires marriage as the end goal, then we should, too; marriage exemplifies the Gospel! 

How does marriage exemplify the Gospel?