What does the bible say about friendship?

By HotBotUpdated: July 27, 2024

Introduction to Biblical Friendship

Friendship is a fundamental aspect of human relationships that the Bible addresses extensively. Scriptures provide insight and wisdom on how to cultivate and maintain genuine, godly friendships. The Bible emphasizes the importance of loyalty, love, and mutual support in these relationships. This article explores what the Bible says about friendship, drawing from various books and verses, and delves into the qualities that define a true friend according to biblical principles.

Old Testament Perspectives on Friendship

The Friendship of David and Jonathan

One of the most prominent examples of friendship in the Old Testament is the relationship between David and Jonathan. Their story is a powerful illustration of loyalty and love. In 1 Samuel 18:1-4, it is written that Jonathan "loved him [David] as his own soul." Despite the potential threat David posed to Jonathan's succession to the throne, Jonathan's loyalty never wavered. This friendship was marked by a deep covenantal bond, with Jonathan even helping David escape from Saul's wrath (1 Samuel 20).

Friendship in Proverbs

The Book of Proverbs offers numerous insights into the nature of friendship. Proverbs 17:17 states, "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." This verse underlines the importance of steadfastness in friendship, especially during challenging times. Additionally, Proverbs 27:17 says, "Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another." This metaphor highlights the mutual benefit and growth that true friends provide each other.

New Testament Teachings on Friendship

Jesus and His Disciples

In the New Testament, Jesus exemplifies the ideal of friendship through His relationship with His disciples. In John 15:13-15, Jesus tells His disciples, "Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you." This passage emphasizes the sacrificial love and transparency that characterize true friendship.

Paul’s Letters on Friendship

The Apostle Paul's letters also provide valuable teachings on friendship. In 1 Thessalonians 5:11, Paul encourages believers to "encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing." This verse highlights the role of friends in providing emotional and spiritual support. Additionally, in Philippians 2:3-4, Paul advises, "Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others." These verses underscore the selflessness and humility that should underpin Christian friendships.

Qualities of a True Friend According to the Bible

Loyalty and Faithfulness

Loyalty is a cornerstone of biblical friendship. Proverbs 18:24 states, "A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." This verse highlights the distinction between mere acquaintances and a true friend who remains faithful through all circumstances.

Honesty and TruthfulnessHonesty is another vital attribute of a godly friend. Ephesians 4:25 advises, "Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another." True friends speak the truth in love, providing constructive feedback and holding each other accountable.

Encouragement and Support

Encouragement is a recurring theme in biblical teachings on friendship. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages believers to "spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Friends play a crucial role in motivating and uplifting each other.

Niche Subtopics in Biblical Friendship

Friendship and Forgiveness

Forgiveness is essential in maintaining healthy friendships. Colossians 3:13 states, "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." This verse underscores the need for grace and forgiveness in relationships, reflecting God's forgiveness towards us.

Friendship with God

The Bible also speaks of friendship with God. James 2:23 refers to Abraham as "God’s friend," highlighting the intimacy and trust that characterized their relationship. John 15:14-15 further underscores the idea that believers are called to a close, personal relationship with God.

Warnings About False Friends

The Bible also warns against false friends. Proverbs 19:4 states, "Wealth brings many new friends, but a poor man is deserted by his friend." This verse cautions against forming friendships based on superficial or materialistic grounds. Additionally, Psalm 41:9 laments, "Even my close friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted his heel against me." This verse serves as a reminder to be discerning in our friendships.

Rarely Known Small Details About Biblical Friendship

Friendship in Ecclesiastes

Ecclesiastes offers profound wisdom on the value of companionship. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 states, "Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken." This passage emphasizes the practical benefits of friendship and mutual support.

Friendship in the Book of Job

The Book of Job provides a nuanced perspective on friendship. Job’s friends initially come to comfort him in his suffering, but their eventual failure to empathize and understand his plight leads to further distress. Job 6:14 states, "Anyone who withholds kindness from a friend forsakes the fear of the Almighty." This verse highlights the importance of compassion and empathy in friendship.

Jesus’ Lesser-Known Friendships

While much attention is given to Jesus’ relationship with His disciples, He also had other notable friendships. For instance, His friendship with Mary, Martha, and Lazarus is evident in John 11:5, which states, "Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus." This friendship is further illustrated by Jesus’ deep emotional response to Lazarus’ death (John 11:35).

As one delves into the Bible’s teachings on friendship, it becomes clear that true friendship is a reflection of divine love and grace. From the unwavering loyalty of Jonathan to the sacrificial love of Jesus, the Scriptures offer a rich tapestry of examples and principles that can guide us in nurturing meaningful, godly friendships. The wisdom found in these ancient texts continues to resonate, providing timeless guidance for building relationships that honor God and enrich our lives.

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