When it comes to Christian dating, the ideal time for most couples is to go out and get to know each other. Studies have shown that the sweet spot for ensuring a successful marriage is to date for 1-2 years before tying the knot. Getting married before one year can be a sign of impulsiveness, which can lead to a lack of thoughtfulness in the relationship. On the other hand, dating for too long can also be problematic.
After a year, most people know if their partner is the right one for them. If a couple doesn't get married after two years, it's likely because there are some serious issues in the relationship. Unfortunately, even among Christian couples who date for any length of time, physical sin is often present. In cases where two people have been friends and attending the same church for many years, a shorter dating season may be more appropriate.
Research has shown that couples who date for years and years are not as happy as those who get married sooner. Additionally, couples who date for more than four years before marriage are much more likely to break up. It's important for Christian couples considering marriage to take enough time to get to know each other before getting engaged. If you're looking for an answer on how long Christian dating should last, I would suggest 6 months to 2 years as a good amount of time.
During this period, it's important to reflect on what Christian marriage is and how Christians should treat their spouses.