Single. Dating. Engaged. Married. by Ben Stuart
Week 6: Chapter 5 — How to End a Dating Relationship Well
Read Chapter 5 of Single, Dating, Engaged, Married. Key passages: Matthew 7:12; Ephesians 4:15
Previewing Week 6 of Single. Dating. Engaged. Married.
Read 3 of 7 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 13-week guide when you’re ready.
This new chapter tackles one of the most avoided topics in Christian dating literature — breaking up. Stuart argues that how you end a relationship reveals a great deal about your character. These questions invite you to think about endings with the same intentionality you'd bring to beginnings.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Why do you think the topic of breaking up is so rarely addressed in Christian books and conversations about dating? What does that silence communicate?
2.Stuart argues that ending a dating relationship well is an act of love and integrity, not just a necessary evil. What does "ending well" actually look like, according to this chapter? What are the key elements?
3.He addresses the temptation to "slow fade" — gradually withdrawing rather than having a direct, honest conversation. Why is the slow fade so tempting? And what makes it ultimately more harmful than a hard conversation?
a.Have you ever been on the giving or receiving end of a slow fade? What was that experience like?
b.What would have made that situation better?