Isn't it cute when teens get together and start dating? They become facebook official and all the cute pics start coming in. Or could it be that below the surface the dating game is more dangerous than we think.
Most romantic relationships are driven by selfishness and insecurity. Sure, every once in a while you'll run across the exception, but for the most part teen age dating relationships lead to idolatry, physical compromise, isolation, broken friendship and intense pain at the breakup.
Starting February 13 our middle school and high school ministries are beginning a 4 week series called "Teen Age Dream". I know it's corny, in fact our goal is to have as many corny elements as possible. Every week we'll show a short clip from "Saved By the Bell" to enhance the level of corn.
As far as content, here is a brief look at the topics for the four weeks.
God of Romance
Romance was not created by Arthur Fonzarelli. It was God's idea and heart that we would connect with the opposite sex in an romantic way. If he made us that way we should perhaps pay attention to his perspective.
God of Purity
Purity is more than resisting intercourse before marriage. It's an issue of the heart and mind.
Does the Bible say anything about dating relationships?
The Bible speaks of marriage and courtship but says nothing about our system of dating. In fact the way teens deal with romantic relationship would be very foreign in the first century or earlier. However, the Bible has much to say about how we treat each other. Romantic relationships shouldn't have in invisible bubble that make them immune to the one another principles taught in scripture.
Is there a better way than the current system?
I hope students will be open to thinking through ways to interact with the opposite sex that are different than the current model. If you work with students you have experienced the struggle and sometimes devastation that can happen to students when they buy in to the romance crazy culture in which they live. Surely there is a way that is healthier for students and more honoring to God.
So what do you think? What are we leaving out? Perhaps I'm I over reacting?
Great series idea. I'm stealing it.
ReplyDeleteHey Josh, put your creative brain on it. We're finding some students who are dating to interview on video, having a panel discussion with college students / young adults and a couple other things.
ReplyDeleteIf you have any ideas I would love to hear about them.
I am actually interested in hearing this haha
ReplyDelete-Coeli Small
Well Coeli, do you want to come sit on a panel we're doing one of the weeks? It would be good for them to hear the perspective of someone who's a little older...
ReplyDelete