Yes, we were freed from the law by the sacrifice of Jesus, but that does not mean that we can do whatever our impulses want. What does Christ’s freedom mean in the context of dating?
We often hear the verse: “Now the Lord is the Spirit and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” (2 Corinthians 3:17 WEB) This passage is even sometimes sung in our churches. Indeed, Christ has freed us. “If therefore the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8.36 WEB) But freed from what?
To answer this, we must read the preceding verses. “Jesus answered them, most certainly I tell you, everyone who commits sin is the bondservant of sin.” (John 8.34 WEB) Sin tries to control us. Being free does not mean doing everything we want: it’s the opposite! Our flesh has all sorts of desires, but thanks to Jesus we are no longer obliged to obey it. We are free from our flesh, freed from sin. Where the Spirit of the Lord is is freedom. However, this freedom should enable us to be more holy. 2 Corinthians 3.18 (WEB) says: “But we all, with unveiled face seeing the glory of the Lord as in a mirror, are transformed into the same image from glory to glory, even as from the Lord, the Spirit.”
Paul also speaks of freedom in his letter to the Galatians. In their case, these newly saved Christians were just visited by Jews who wanted to add all sorts of Jewish rules to their Christian walk. The apostle, therefore, takes the time to explain to the Galatians that they are released from the law, that is to say, that it is no longer necessary to obey the law in order to be saved. The sacrifice of Jesus is all that counts to be saved. It does not mean that the law must be eradicated, the principles that are given in it are still great examples of living, but it is not obeying the law that gives us eternal life.
Nowadays, some religious people add several rules when it comes to dating. No kissing before marriage, or even holding hands; have a chaperone in all circumstances and so on. These recommendations may be useful for some lovers that are too hot or fast. However, do not make a law that leads to judgment. “Stand firm therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and don’t be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.” (Galatians 5.1 WEB) Each person is different, and each couple must establish their limits to remain pure, not follow unbiblical religious generalities.
Out of respect for others, who may not share your strength of character, always pay attention to your conduct. Even if you can keep your thoughts pure by wearing a mini skirt, many men will not. So even if you are free to wear what you want, think of others and help your brothers and sisters to keep their thoughts on Christ. “For you, brothers, were called for freedom. Only don’t use your freedom for gain to the flesh, but through love be servants to one another.” (Galatians 5:13 WEB)
In short, your freedom should not lead you to free love! Your freedom must lead you to a life of holiness. Freed from your flesh, you can now follow the Spirit of God in your behavior.