What Does Jesus Say About Friendship

10 Biblical Truths about Real Friendship

I’ve never heard somebody express a desire for fewer, but less-meaningful, interpersonal ties. Chacun d’entre nous desires a stronger, more intimate bond with his or her companions. And this is due to the fact that God created us for real friendship. What does the Bible teach about the importance of friendship? Perhaps even more than we had previously imagined. In the Bible, the idea of friendship runs throughout the whole plot, culminating in the cross of Jesus Christ and extending forward into an eternal future of real friendship.

Listed below are eleven biblical ideas that might assist us in reclaiming meaningful friendship:

1. The First Problem in the World Was Not Sin but Solitude

Anyone who says they yearn for fewer, less-meaningful connections is someone I’ve never met or heard before. The desire to be more closely connected with our friends is something that we all have in common. God created us for genuine relationship, and here is why. In regards to friendship, what does the Bible have to say? Possibly a lot more than we had anticipated! In the Bible, the concept of friendship runs throughout the whole plot, reaching its culmination at the cross of Jesus Christ and extending forward into an everlasting future filled with real friendship.

Listed below are eleven biblical ideas that might assist us in regaining meaningful friendship:

2. Friendship Is a Whole-Bible Theme

I’ve never heard someone express a desire for fewer, less-meaningful connections. Each of us yearns for a deeper level of connection with our companions. And this is due to the fact that God created us for genuine relationship. What is the Bible’s position on friendship? Perhaps even more than we had anticipated. In the Bible, the idea of friendship runs throughout the whole plot, reaching its culmination at the cross of Jesus Christ and extending forward into an eternal future of real friendship.

Here are seven biblical ideas that might assist us in reclaiming meaningful friendship:

3. Proverbs Is a Practical Guide to Forging True Friendship

The book of Proverbs provides us with knowledge for managing the difficulties of our interpersonal interactions. And it doesn’t just deal with relationships in general; it also deals with friendship in particular, which is important. For example, it instructs us on what to look for while searching for real companions in our lives (Prov. 13:20;Prov 22:24-25). Because of this, it demonstrates why loyalty is so crucial in building friendship (18:24; 19:6; 27:9–10; etc.). It also demonstrates the one thing that is particularly detrimental to this type of relationship: the spread of secrets (16:28; 17:9).

4. True Friendship Is More Like a Covenant Than a Contract

We frequently regard our relationships as if they were products: we befriend for the benefits we obtain from them. However, just like with a contract, if the relationship does not provide us with the commodities we desire, we are free to terminate it. However, the Bible teaches us that true friendship is more covenantal in nature than contractual in nature. We learn about “a buddy who remains closer than a brother” in the book of Proverbs (Prov.

18:24). “Do not abandon your friend,” the verse instructs us (27:10). We are warned of the fickleness of fair-weather friends in the following passage: “Wealth brings many new friends, but a poor man is abandoned by his buddy” (19:4).

5. Friendship Thickens Church Community

According to studies, our culture is becoming increasingly socially isolated. We are in the middle of a nationwide pandemic of loneliness. What would happen, though, if local churches felt more like countercultural communities bursting with spiritual vitality and love? Every church is outfitted with all of the resources necessary to function as a community of deep relationships with one another. After all, this is our ancestors’ legacy: When it comes to friendship, the book of Acts presents the church as embodying ancient principles of hospitality (Acts 2:42-47; Acts 4:32-35).

The unexpected and inviting counter-cultural glimpse of real friendship that may be found in any small church can be found everywhere.

6. Friendship Is the Goal of the Gospel

Christians correctly believe that salvation consists in the remission of sins and the assurance of eternal life. However, there is more to it than that. Jesus extends the privilege of becoming his friend to anybody who places their confidence in him (John 15:14–15). And, after all, what really is eternal life? As Jesus put it, “this is everlasting life: that they know you, the one true God, and Jesus Christ, your Son, whom you have sent” (John 17:3). He saved us so that we may have a personal connection with the triune God (14:20–23).

We shall have real fellowship with all other Christians in the new creation when Christ returns.

7. The Cross Is History’s Most Heroic Act of Friendship

Jesus wants us to think of the crucifixion in terms of friendship rather than as a punishment. The night before he died, as he explained to his disciples the significance of the cross and the cross’s meaning, Jesus declared, “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). Jesus’ death on the cross was unquestionably an act of substitutionary atonement, in which He bore the wrath of God on our behalf. However, it is also, and this is extremely personal to me, a relational act of friendship.

In other words, Christ did not die for an indeterminate portion of humanity; he died for specific individuals.

8. Jesus Is Our Truest Friend

Many Christians are reluctant to refer to Jesus as a friend. Jesus, on the other hand, does not share our reservations. And it is important to him that we accept this as true. He asks us to think of our connection in terms of friendship rather than romantic love (John 15:12-17). The false dichotomy of either-or—”Jesus is our Monarch, not our buddy!”—might be replaced with the biblical both-and: Jesus is both our wonderful king and our best friend.

9. Friendship Shows the World That We Belong to Jesus

People in this lonely world of broken relationships will recognize that something has come from above when they see churches filled with friendships—imperfect friendships, to be sure, but relationships filled with genuine repentance and forgiveness—and they will know that something has come from above. They will be able to verify that our claims about Jesus as a sinner’s friend are genuine. The Bible states that all people will know that you are my disciples if you have love for one another in John 13:35: “by this all people will know that you are my disciples.” Also during this discourse, Jesus described “love for one another” in terms of the friendship between two people who have a mutual affection for one another.

And how has he shown us his love?

“There is no greater love than this, that someone would lay down his or her life for his or her companions” (15:13). This is how we are to demonstrate to the world that we are Jesus’ disciples: by loving one another in the same way that he loved us, which is via sacrificial friendship.

10. Friendship-with God and One Another-Is Our Greatest Joy

For a specific reason, the apostle John wrote to believers: “so that you, too, may have company with us; and certainly, our friendship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.” And we are writing these things down in order for our happiness to be full” (1 John 1:3-4). According to John, true joy is achieved via vertical friendship with God and horizontal fellowship with one another. In our friendship with God and with one another, we find our greatest happiness. It is for this reason that Jonathan Edwards stated that friendship is “the ultimate happiness of all moral actors” (Works, 23:350).

The Bible has all of the information we require to reclaim a more expansive understanding of real friendship.
Friendship was not given to us; rather, it was given to us by God.
Photograph courtesy of Thinkstock/Fizkes Hunter (MA, Wheaton College) is the teaching pastor of Zionsville Fellowship in Zionsville, Indiana.
He formerly worked as a preacher for young people at Grace Church of DuPage and as a religious studies instructor at College of DuPage, among other positions.

20 Wise & Warm Verses about Friendship

Friendship is unquestionably one of life’s most precious treasures. In our friends, we discover trustworthy partners who know and accept us for who we are, regardless of our circumstances. The bonds of friendship may sometimes be difficult and messy, since it takes a lot of effort to keep connections with friends joyful and healthy. However, our friends are the individuals who help us get through difficult times, and they are the people who are most likely to show compassion to us. They always have the proper words—sometimes it’s Bible verses about hope or Bible verses about strength—and they say them with conviction.

As a matter of fact, we should take the time to write an encouraging message to a friend, using aBible quotation about love or one of these Bible verses about friendship that properly conveys how much we rely on them on a daily basis.
There is no greater love than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
‘Oil and perfume make the heart joyful, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his serious counsel,’ says Proverbs 27:9.
Try to outdo one another when it comes to displaying honor.” 10Colossians 3:13 (New International Version) “If any of you holds a grudge against someone, be patient with one another and forgive one another as soon as possible.
Showing hospitality to one another without complaining is important.
Ecclesiastes 4:10 (14th chapter) “If any of them falls down, the other can assist the other in getting back up.
Two are better than one, according to Ecclesiastes 4:9, since they receive a favorable return for their effort.

“17Proverbs 27:10 Proverbs 22:24–25 (NIV) “Do not become friends with a hot-tempered guy, and do not associate with someone who is quickly irritated; otherwise, you may learn his methods and become entangled in his web of deception.” Proverbs 12:26 (NIV) “A virtuous man is cautious in his friendship, but the path of the wicked leads them wrong,” says the Prophet.

You may be able to discover further information on this and other related items at the website piano.io.

What does the Bible say about friends?

QuestionAnswer Human beings were intended to be social beings, and friendships are a crucial component of our life because they allow us to express ourselves. We require friends—individuals with whom we may form bonds of attachment. But not just any buddy will do; having the correct friends is essential, as is exercising discernment: “The righteous are picky about who they associate with” (Proverbs 12:26). We may learn what a genuine friend should be from the Bible: A good friend always exhibits affection, no matter what the situation is (Proverbs 17:17).

The Bible says that a true friend corrects when it is required, but that the correction is done in love (Proverbs 27:5–6).
True friends refrain from spreading rumors (Proverbs 16:28).
A real friend is one who is always there for you (Proverbs 18:24).
As Barzillai the Gileadite consoled David when he was being pursued by Saul (2 Samuel 19:25–26), so Jephthah’s daughter’s friends consoled her in her grief (Judges 11:37–38).
A friend may also reprimand in love, demonstrating that he or she is more trustworthy than a hypocritical flatterer (Proverbs 27:6).
Jonathan’s commitment to David outweighed his allegiance to his own father and to his own goals (1 Samuel 18:1–4; 20:14–17), and he was rewarded for it.
Theirs was a friendship that was closer to brothers than anything else.

Friendship may have both positive and negative sides to it.

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15 Bible Verses about Friends and Friendship

We live in a digital world where we have “friends” and “following” that we have never met in real life. However, the Bible is replete with imagery of relationships that go above the level of superficial sentimentality. We should strive to build a community that is passionately devoted while also being visibly nice. When it comes to friendship and the actions that build true rapport and camaraderie, the Bible has a lot to say about it. Here are 15 scriptures that may be used to help us all become better friends with one another.

1. Withholding kindness from a friend (Job 6:14)

Anyone who refuses to be kind to a friend is denying themselves the dread of the Almighty. The majority of the Book of Job is comprised of conversation. Job’s buddies are attempting to assist him in comprehending the catastrophes that have befallen him. Job’s companion Eliphaz says that Job is suffering as a result of his own stupidity at one point in the story. Job reminds Eliphaz that he is the one who is acting foolishly in this scene. Because if you’re withholding things from your friends such as love, comfort, and compassion, it indicates that you have no fear of God.

2. How good and pleasant to dwell in unity (Psalm 133)

What a blessing and pleasure it is to see God’s people living together in harmony! When Aaron’s beard is pouring down his neck, it seems like priceless oil has been spilled on his head, trickling down the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down on the collar of his robe. It’s as if the dew of Hermonwere raining on Mount Zion at this moment in time. Because it is there that the Lord bestows his blessing, which includes eternal life. Psalm 133 focuses on a number of different concepts at the same time.

From a different perspective, it’s a celebration of the universal beauty of oneness.

This might be particularly difficult for people who are close to one another at certain times.

If we wish to live in harmony, we must put in the necessary effort.

3. Gossip separates close friends (Proverbs 16:28)

A wicked individual instigates conflict, while a gossiping friend drives a wedge between intimate pals. It’s a little startling how frequently the subject of gossip comes up in the Bible. This makes sense, though, when you consider how hazardous (and ubiquitous) the situation is. Gossip is destructive to people’s reputations—and to their relationships. There’s something wrong with someone who gets a kick out of inciting controversy. It feels good to be able to share hidden knowledge.

However, in the long run, it erodes confidence. We must be cautious about associating with persons who take joy in pointing out the flaws and failings of others. Stay away from them. If they gossip about you with you, they will also speak about you with others.

4. Love covers offense (Proverbs 17:9)

The actions of a wicked individual can cause friction, and the spreading of rumors can cause close friends to become estranged. Considering how frequently gossip appears in the Bible, it is a bit unexpected. This makes sense, though, when you consider how harmful (and prevalent) it truly is. Reputations—and even relationships—are ruined by rumors. Someone who takes pleasure in inciting conflict is doing something wrong. It feels good to be able to share confidential information. Nonetheless, it has the effect of undermining public confidence.

These people should be avoided.

5. A friend loves at all times (Proverbs 17:17)

A friend is there for you at all times, and a brother is born to help you through difficult times. If you’ve ever had a buddy who is only available when the mood strikes, you understand how frustrating it can be. It’s one thing to have pals who are light-hearted and carefree. While going through a hardship, though, it might be really upsetting to discover that such individuals are nowhere to be located. A good buddy will always be there for you. They make room in their schedules for you. Not only are they there to share a joke with you, but they are also there to weep with you when you need someone.

They’re worth their weight in gold, to be honest with you.

6. Unreliable friends lead you to ruin (Proverbs 18:24)

Having untrustworthy friends may lead to financial disaster, yet there is one friend that remains closer than a brother. It is important to note that this passage does not state that being unreliable would result in your downfall. That should be self-evident. However, even if you are doing everything correctly, surrounding yourself with reckless individuals will ultimately come back to bite you. You simply cannot accomplish everything on your own; thus, you must surround yourself with individuals who are trustworthy and dependable.

No matter what happens, they’re always there to lend a helping hand.

7. Wounds from a friend can be trusted (Proverbs 27:6)

Wounds from a friend may be trusted, but kisses from an adversary are multiplied. This is a difficult lesson to grasp. We don’t appreciate receiving negative feedback from anyone. And we frequently expect our friends to stand by us and support us no matter what. But, when we stop and think about it, we realize that’s not the best course of action. Our friends are the ones who are most familiar with us, and we really need them to point out our blind spots. The author of Proverbs refers to these facts as “wounds,” and he encourages us to put our faith in them.

Our adversaries, on the other hand, will frequently use benevolence to manipulate us. The author of Proverbs would caution us all not to be fooled by flattery and to enjoy being questioned by those who are closest to us in their opinions.

8. Friendships perfume (Proverbs 27:9)

Joy is brought to the heart by perfume and incense, and the pleasantness of a friend comes from their honest advise. When you attended an antique dinner party in the ancient Near East, the host would give perfumed oils and incense to make the atmosphere more festive. These extravagances highlighted the generosity of the host as well as the importance of your contribution. The advise of friends might bring a similar type of experience as well. When someone cares about us enough to provide real advice, it indicates their goodwill and our importance to him or her.

9. Two are better than one (Ecclesiastes 4:9–12)

Two are preferable to one because they receive a greater reward for their efforts: if one of them falls down, the other may assist the other in getting back up. But, pity the fool who falls and has no one to assist him or her back up. Additionally, if two people lie down together, they will stay warm. But how can one remain warm on their own? Despite the fact that one is outmatched, two can protect themselves. Breaking a three-stranded cable takes a lot of effort. We’re used to hearing this verse in the context of a relationship.

The author expresses concern about being isolated.

Our friends and family members are gifts from God, given to us to make our lives more comfortable and joyful by bringing us together.

10. Love one another as I have loved you (John 15:12–15)

If two people work together, the results are more fruitful: If one of them falls down, the other can assist the other in getting back up. Those who fall and are unable to get back up should be pitied. They will also stay warm if they both lie down together. But how does one remain warm when you’re on your own for hours? Two people can protect themselves even if one is outmatched. A three-stranded cable is not easily snapped. It takes time and effort. This scripture is frequently used in the context of marriage.

It is recommended that you avoid being alone, according to the writer.

It is God’s gift to us to have friends and family who help to make our lives easier and more enjoyable.

11. The dangers of bad company (1 Corinthians 15:33)

Do not be fooled by the saying, “Bad company corrupts a good reputation.” Any parent will tell you that their children’s behavior varies depending on the other children with whom they are interacting. No matter whether they’re conscious of it or not, their friends’ attitudes and ideas have an impact on them—whether for the better or worse. Parents, on the other hand, are frequently unaware that this occurs in their own households. In order to go forward on a positive trajectory, we must be deliberate about who we choose to surround ourselves with in order to achieve that goal.

People around us who are positive, self-sacrificing, diligent, and compassionate will influence us to be the same way as well. However, even if this is not the case, it will have an influence.

12. In humility, value others above yourself (Philippians 2:1–4)

Consequently, if you have received any encouragement from being united with Christ, any comfort from his love, any common sharing in the Spirit of tenderness and compassion, then please contribute to my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, and being one in spirit and of one mind with me and the rest of the church. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit in your own self-importance. Instead, act with humility and place others before yourself, not looking out for your own interests, but each of you looking out for the interests of the others.

He goes on to explain how Jesus chose to put His divinity aside and serve us as a servant on our behalf.

We should make the conscious decision on a daily basis to live as servants to those closest to us, putting our own rights and expectations aside.

13. Forgive as the Lord forgave you (Colossians 3:12–14)

You must thus dress yourselves in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, and perseverance as God’s chosen people, holy and greatly loved by the Almighty. If any of you harbors a grudge against someone, be patient with one another and forgive one another as soon as possible. Allow yourself to be forgiven as the Lord has forgiven you. And then, on top of all of these characteristics, spread love, which brings them all together in perfect harmony. Our proximity to others increases the likelihood that we may be discouraged, disappointed, and demoralized by others who are in our immediate vicinity.

The people we care about will disappoint us—and we will disappoint them as well.
Our connections would crumble if we didn’t have them.
We are to be forgiving to one another.
In the same way that Jesus has been forgiving toward us.

14. Do not slander one another (James 4:11)

Please, brothers and sisters, refrain from slandering one another. Those who speak negatively about their brothers and sisters, as well as those who criticize them, are speaking against and judging the law. When you judge the law, you are not enforcing it; rather, you are sitting in judgment on its application. Have you ever noticed how simple it is for friends to start a rumor about someone who isn’t physically present? The word “slander” in this context refers to the act of accusing or speaking out against someone.

It should be our first instinct to speak positively about people rather than negatively about them.

Slandering people means that we are not only passing judgment on them, but we are also asserting that we are above God’s law.

15. Love each other deeply (1 Peter 4:7–9)

Everything is on the verge of coming to an end. As a result, you must remain vigilant and composed in order to pray effectively. The most important thing to remember is to sincerely love one another because love can hide a multitude of sins. Allow one another to be guests without resentment or resentment. What would you do first if you were convinced that the end was near? Peter warns us that the end of all things is near, and as a result, we should prioritize loving one another profoundly at the top of our priority list.

Because love enables us to face the difficulties that emerge as a result of living in a sin-tainted environment.

It is about making space in our life for others who are less fortunate.

That’s what it looks like when someone loves you.

Becoming a good friend

Friendship is extremely important for followers of Christ. Through forgiveness and hospitality, we are given the opportunity to experience the love of Jesus in our interpersonal relationships. This holds true for both individuals who are familiar with the Lord and those who are not. If you have friends who are not believers in Jesus, the connections you build with them will have a significant influence on their willingness to accept your religion as well. In case you’re searching for some pointers on how to share the gospel with your friends, check out the post 5 Tips for Sharing the Gospel with Friends for some inspiration!

What Does the Bible Say About Friendship? Bible Verses About Friendship

“I am a friend to those who fear you, and I am a companion to all who obey your commands,” says Psalm 119:63. Meaning:Friendships should be based on a shared belief in God as well as a desire to live according to God’s principles. “Jehovah* despises a cunning person, but He maintains a close acquaintance with the righteous,” says Proverbs 3:32. Meaning: Those who wish to have a relationship with God must refrain from deceptive activity and live a morally honest life in order to do so. It is said in Proverbs 13:20 that “the one who walks with the wise will become wise, while the one who has dealings with the foolish will fare badly.” Meaning: Individuals are impacted either favorably or badly by the people with whom they associate.

“There are partners who are ready to crush one another, yet there is a buddy who remains closer than a brother,” according to Proverbs 18:24.

A real friend, on the other hand, is one who is loyal, trustworthy, and loving.

Meaning: A good friend will not hesitate to provide constructive criticism when the situation calls for it. “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens his companion,” according to Proverbs 27:17. Interpretation: Good friends bring out the best in one another.

Powerful Bible Verses About Friendship

“Two persons are better off than one because they can support and encourage one another.” True friendship is one of the most rewarding experiences in life. The people we choose as friends become like family to us; they encourage us through difficult times, rejoice with us on happy occasions, and elevate our spirits in ways that no one else can. Much the most memorable occasions in our lives are made even more memorable by the presence of our closest friends. The following Bible verses about friendship are likely to point you in the right direction, whether you’re searching for advice on how to enhance your present friendships or simply seeking guidance on how to form new ones in the first place.

While going through difficult times, it instructs readers to bear one other’s burdens, to always choose love and patience even when faced with hardship, and to treat others the way we would like to be treated ourselves.

Luke 6:31

What you do to others should mirror what you would like others to do to you.

Colossians 3:12-14

Proverbs 18:24

Having unreliable friends may lead to financial disaster, yet there is one friend that clings closer than a brother to you through thick and thin.

Proverbs 19:20

Pay attention to counsel and accept punishment, and you will be considered among the wise at the end of the day.

James 4:11

Proverbs 17:17

Friendship lasts forever, and brothers are created to face adversity together.

John 15:12-15

My mandate is this: Love one another as much as I have loved each of you. There is no greater love than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. No one can match this. If you follow my instructions, you are considered my pals. I no longer refer to you as servants, because a servant is not familiar with his master’s affairs. You are now my friends, since I have shared all with you that I have learnt from my Father. Thank you for your friendship.

Philippians 2:3

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit in your own self-importance. Instead, practice humility by placing others’ needs ahead of your own.

Galatians 6:2

Bring each other’s burdens to the light, and you will be fulfilling the law of Christ in this way.

Proverbs 16:28

A wicked individual instigates conflict, while a gossiping friend drives a wedge between intimate pals.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

Two persons are better off than one because they can support and encourage one another. If one person falls, the other person can reach out and assist him or her. Someone who falls alone, on the other hand, is in serious peril. The same may be said about two persons who are laying close together and keeping each other warm. But how can one stay warm by themselves? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two people standing together can be attacked and defeated. Three braids are preferable since a triple-braided cord is more difficult to break.

Proverbs 27:5-6

Open criticism is preferable than secret affection. Wounds from a friend may be trusted, but kisses from an adversary are multiplied.

Proverbs 12:26

The good chose their companions with care, while the wicked are led astray by their own pathlessness.

Job 16:20-21

As my eyes well up with tears, my intercessor stands behind me, pleading with God on behalf of a guy in the same way that one would plead for a friend.

Proverbs 27:17

Sharpening iron is a two-way street, and one man sharpens another.

Proverbs 22:24-25

In this case, one guy sharpens another with the help of iron.

1 Corinthians 15:33

Keep in mind that bad company might tarnish one’s good character.

Proverbs 13:20

Keep in mind that bad company can taint a person’s reputation.

Job 42:10

Jobs riches was restored when he prayed for his friends and received twice as much as he had originally received from the LORD!

Luke 16:9

The moral of the story is to use your worldly resources to serve others and to establish new acquaintances. After that, when your worldly goods are no longer there, they will welcome you into an everlasting home.

1 John 4:11

Dear friends, since God has loved us so greatly, we should unquestionably love one another.

What Does the Bible Say about Friendships?

Everyone requires a buddy, and the vast majority of us have at least one wonderful friend in our lives. Knowing how to be a good friend is not something you are born with; rather, it is something you acquire through experience. When it comes to friendship, Christians may find plenty of guidance in the Bible.

Worldly Friendships

All of us require a buddy, and the vast majority of us have at least one wonderful friend in common. A good friend is not something you are born with; rather, it is something that you gain through experience. Regarding friendship, Christians may find much of guidance in the Bible.

Biblical Friendships

The Bible has a great deal of information on this subject, which we should take the time to learn and apply to our own lives. A real friend exhibits the qualities listed below, which are just a few examples:

(1 Thessalonians 5:11)
Friends forgive each other and assist one other in times of difficulty (Colossians 3:13
Ecclesiastes 4:10)
Friends do not gossip or listen to talk, allowing it to harm the friendship. Friendship is a gift from God to us (Proverbs 16:28) Friends remain by our sides when times are difficult, demonstrating dependability (Proverbs 18:24)
Friends provide pleasant and sincere advice, seeking our highest good (Proverbs 27:9
Proverbs 12:26)
Friends place one another above themselves (Romans 12:10)
Friends love one another in the same way that Christ loves us (John 15:12-13)
Friends challenge one another to meet the highest good (Proverbs 27:17)
Friends never withhold kindness or mercy (Proverbs 22:24-25

The Church Fathers, as well as numerous notable theologians throughout history, wrote on this subject as well. “A good friend is one who, in times of hardship, calmly and imperturbably bears with his neighbor the subsequent pains, privations, and calamities as if they were his own,” stated Maximus the Confessor. In a same vein, Justin Martyr writes: “Even though you might mention an unlimited number of things, none of them can compare to a real friend.” And, first and foremost, let us consider the immense pleasure that friendship itself provides.

He is bound to him by an unbreakable bond of spirit that brings him inexpressible joy.

“I’m talking about true buddies, men who are one in their hearts and who would even die for each other, who are madly in love with one other.” With all of this in mind, it becomes clear how unusual it is to find a genuinely wonderful buddy.

Our Best Friend

However, the truth of the matter is that friendship is at the very center of the gospel, and it is at the heart of every genuine evangelistic attempt. Christ is the most wonderful buddy anyone could ever want to have. However, even if some of the individuals in our lives do not match this requirement, we have one friend who will never fail us. God’s Son, Jesus Christ, is the finest friend anybody could ever hope to have. He cares about you so greatly that He sacrificed His life for you (John 3:16).

However, the truth of the matter is that friendship is at the very heart of the gospel and at the center of every genuine evangelistic attempt. Our best buddy is Jesus Christ, who is the most wonderful person we could ever meet. When others in our life fall short of this standard, we have one friend who will never let us down. If you are looking for a friend, Jesus Christ is the finest option. He cares about you so passionately that He sacrificed His life for your benefit (Hebrews 13:15). (John 3:16). He endured tortures, humiliation, false charges, and finally death all because He adores you in ways that you will never be able to grasp in your whole life time (John 15:13
Ephesians 5:2).

It is a mandate from Jesus Christ that those of us who would call ourselves His disciples must live by in order to love Him. That commandment is that we love one another in the same way that He has loved us (John 13:34-35;1 Peter 4:8;Ephesians 5:2;John 15:12;Colossians 3:14;1 John 4:7;2 Timothy 1:7;1 John 4:8;John 15:9;1 Corinthians 16:14;Romans 13:8;1 John 3:16). True friends do everything they can to inspire us to pursue our highest good, even if it involves correcting us, warning us, suffering with us, and supporting us in both good and terrible times, as well as in between.

It is a big responsibility to love our friends like Christ loves us.
As a result, be a loyal friend and pick your companions carefully.
Pray for the well-being and healing of your friends.
What Is the Proper Way to Confess to One Another According to the Bible?
The Excitement of Being a Part of a Group Unsplash/Priscilla Du Preez provided the image for this post.
Davila-Ashcraft is an Anglican priest, theologian, and apologist who graduated from God’s Bible College in Cincinnati, Ohio, with a B.A.
He is married with two children.
He is the host of Expedition Truth, a one-hour apologetics radio discussion show that airs on a variety of stations.

The Gospel and Friendship

So many of us have read excellent books on marriage and discipleship, but I’m curious as to how many of us have read an excellent book on what it means to be a good friend. My hunch is that there aren’t many. That so few books on friendship are read, or maybe that so few books on friendship are created, is a source of amazement to me. Not every one of us is meant to be a husband or a wife, but we are all called to be friends with one another. I’m never shocked when popular television shows like Friends, Seinfeld, or Cheers see a spike in their viewership.

The theme song for Cheers conveys the yearning we all have for a close-knit group of friends: Sometimes you just want to go somewhere where everyone knows your name and they are always grateful that you showed there.
In addition, I recall the opening phrase of the theme song: “People, please allow me to tell you about my best buddy.” The definition of friendship may be difficult to come up with (for those interested in an old effort, read Plato’sLysis), but we all know when we’ve come across one.
However, this is a clumsy response.
It is true that a man may express love, affection, trust, and encouragement toward a dog, and that a dog can reciprocate the same feelings toward a man in return.
My first stop is John 15:9–15, where Jesus tells his disciples that “as the Father has loved me, so have I loved you.” Now, please remain in my affection.
I’ve told you this in order for my happiness to be full.
No one has shown greater love than he has shown his friends by laying down his life for them.

I no longer refer to you as servants, because a servant is not familiar with his master’s affairs.

What Jesus taught in these lines, and what he went on to practice, was that real friendship necessitates sacrifice.

According to Jesus’ teaching in lines 1-8, real disciples will bear spiritual fruit: “It is to my Father’s glory that you bear abundant fruit, demonstrating yourselves to be my followers” (8).

Throughout this chapter, the author emphasizes the fact that people who follow Jesus by obeying his commands will confront opposition from the rest of society.

Friendship is a form of self-sacrificed affection.

That is my instruction to you.” No one has shown greater love than he has shown his friends by laying down his life for them.

Love is demonstrated by the willingness of two people to lay down their life for one another.

It goes without saying that Jesus was primarily concerned with his disciples’ willingness to withstand the sacrifice and suffering that would befall them if they followed his commandments.

Jesus freely gave his life for the sake of others.

No act of love has ever been witnessed, and no act of love will ever be known, as profound and strong as this one.

It is important to recognize the significance of this reality in terms of a Christian perspective of friendship.

The Bible has a great deal of insight about friendship, and the finest of this information comes directly from the gospel itself. Take a look at your personal friendships and ask yourself the questions listed below: 1.

“Do I take the initiative in my friendships?”

Taking the first step, making the first phone call, sending the first message, or offering the first invitation is extremely simple if you are waiting for someone else to do it for you. The dread of being rejected causes people to remain inactive. The good news is that God didn’t sit around waiting for us to come to him; “We love because he first loved us” (1 John 4:19). If you have a friendship that is blazing like an ember in your life, revive it by taking the initiative and initiating contact.

“Do I sacrifice in my friendships?”

It is expected that the expense of following Jesus would be reflected in our interpersonal connections. This is true for families, both biological and spiritual, but it is also true for any and all forms of friendship. Consider the financial and emotional toll that maintaining a friendship takes. For example, you could be prepared to spend an hour on the phone while part of you would rather be asleep if you have a good reason. It may be as difficult as traveling miles out of your way to be a source of inspiration.

I was in need of advice, and he happened to be in the middle of a road trip.

That individual is a buddy.

“Do I appreciate my friends for who they are or what they can give me?”

Friendship is not a precise science, and it is unknown why we are drawn to some people over others in certain situations. We unquestionably want to be in the company of individuals who invigorate us, and this is very reasonable. However, if our criteria for friendship is constantly defined by what someone else can do for us, then the gospel is absent from the relationship. God did not choose to love Israel because of the intrinsic worth of his people; rather, he simply decided to love them (Deuteronomy 7:7).

“Do I want close friends?”

I don’t take it for granted that everyone desires strong friendships. Unlike Plato’s Socrates, who once declared, “I have a desire for friends; and I would rather have a good friend than. the greatest horse or dog,” we are not all like him. As a matter of fact, by the hound of Egypt, I would much rather have a genuine friend than all of Darius’ money, or even Darius himself; I am such a devotee of friendships.” No, not everyone is as enthusiastic about friendship as you may think. Some people prefer to spend their time alone with a book or in front of a movie.

Although Jesus had perfect friendship and fellowship in the three-ness of the Godhead, we should note that his desire for people to become his friends was demonstrated via the incarnation.

Christ’s work on the cross provided us with the opportunity to become his friends. Yes, this is a tremendous source of inspiration for evangelism! However, it may also serve as a motivator for seeking out individuals who are willing to love sacrificially.

“Do I have godly expectations for friendship?”

There is no assumption that everyone desires close friends. Unlike Plato’s Socrates, who once stated, “I have a desire for friends; and I would rather have a good friend than. the greatest horse or dog,” we are not all like him. As a matter of fact, by the hound of Egypt, I would much rather have a genuine buddy than all of Darius’ money, or even Darius himself; I am such a devotee of genuine friendships.” Not everyone is as enthusiastic about friendship as you may think. Individuals who enjoy reading or watching movies may choose to spend their time alone.

Although Jesus had perfect friendship and fellowship in the three-ness of the Godhead, we should note that his desire for people to become his friends was demonstrated via his incarnation.

To be sure, this is an excellent source of inspiration for evangelization!

“Do I bear with my friends?”

Our friendships are frequently harmed by one another. Our friends put us to the test of our patience. We ponder if it is worthwhile to battle, whether it is worthwhile to suffer. Once again, the gospel presents us with the solution. In anticipation of God’s kindness and mercy being revealed on the cross, Jesus taught his followers that their lives should be defined by grace and mercy as well: “For if you forgive mankind when they transgress against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you” (Matthew 6:14).

“Do I turn to God for friendship?”

Friendships may be both the most fulfilling and the most disheartening partnerships on the face of the earth—especially when we devote ourselves to godly standards of behavior. It is worth noting that, while the Bible writes extensively about our dependence on people, it speaks much more extensively on our need on God. Take, for example, the Psalms. As a result, they serve as a testament to God’s loving and tender care for the people of the world. The lyrics are hymns of God-confidence: “O LORD, I cry to you; please respond promptly to my call.” “You should be able to hear my voice when I call you” (Psalm 141:1).

Abraham was also referred to be God’s buddy (James 2:23).

As a starting point, we must be careful not to minimize God’s transcendent nature.

“Mutual, reciprocal friendship of the modern sort is not in aim, and cannot be without insulting God,” Don Carson observed in his commentary on these words from John.

He is our Lord and Master; we are his slaves, and we are content to be such.

The connection between a husband and his wife, which demonstrates service and sacrifice, is a particularly powerful illustration of the gospel.

He is all that we require.

Despite the fact that we can spend all day looking for new friends, we will never discover someone who loves and assists us more than God has done and continues to do through Jesus Christ.

He is the one one who will never, ever fail us.

There are other additional questions that need to be addressed.

Is there a distinction between befriending someone and disciplining someone, for example? However, for the time being, it is sufficient to state that Christians should strive to be the greatest friends they can be to others since we have been befriended by the Savior himself.