Should Christians be on dating apps?
Swipe left, swipe right- the life of dating apps. Whew, these apps can be intense right? It seems as if the plethora of dating apps have taken over our culture. Like its almost like if you didn’t have a time in college where you used Tinder, you’re given a side eye. Let’s be real though, Tinder in college was definitely the wave! It was fun, until the guy got creepy and asked for pics or wanted to see you at late hours of the night. HARD PASS. Tinder seems to have gotten that rep though for being the dating app that was more for hookups than actual dates, but we have heard of some pretty successful stories of people finding their soulmate on Tinder soooo maybe its not that bad?
No but actually, dating apps have always had a bad rep. But over the years, more apps have been developed and have gained traction as a great way to meet new people, if you’re doing so in a safe way of course. The question is though, should Christians use dating apps?
We surveyed a few Christian women and to our surprise, the responses were relatively similar. Angel M. said “I don’t see a problem with Christian women using dating apps. I think its more common now a days. especially with the increase of social media and technology. I’ve seen marriages form from long distance dating and now they’re completely blossoming.” Many of the women gave similar sentiments but made sure to note that “discernment is key” and “consulting with God during the process is necessary.”
Taylor M. wrote “dating sites and apps have historically had a very negative connotation associated with them as a part of hookup culture.”
This is vital to remember when analyzing your usage of the dating app or site. Are you using it to meet new people, in a chill, friendly way? Or potentially are you using it to engage in sexual activity? As weird or awkward as that distinction may be, its a distinction that needs to be made prior to your engagement with dating sites and apps. This is what led to Abby K. saying that Christians ultimately shouldn’t use dating sites and apps.
She mentioned that knowing the negative connotation of dating sites and apps, Christian women should “guard themselves from even being subject to potential damage that can be done.” She went on to say that “you never know who can be on the other end of the screen” and the whole notion of swiping left or right on people objectifies them, instead of seeing them as the people that God has called them to be.” Interesting right?
So should Christians be on dating apps?
That’s up to you. Our advice to you is to identify first why you’re on the app or the site. Are you doing it just to meet new people? or are you doing it to fill a void that ultimately only God can fill? It could be beneficial as well for you to set up some boundaries regarding your usage of the app. Maybe not engage on the app past a certain time or when someone says something that makes you feel uncomfortable, make the decision to not continue conversation with that person. Discernment and being led by the Holy Spirit are essential aspects to your experience. If you’re trying to find your soulmate, you definitely need the guidance of the Lord.