What Jesus teaches about Friendship
Introduction
Friendship is a gift—a divine connection that shapes who we are and how we navigate the world. What does genuine friendship look like, especially in the context of a Christ-based relationship? Today, we take a journey into the heart of Jesus’ teachings on friendship and unearth the powerful lessons He shared about this special bond. Get ready to learn, reflect, and be transformed!
Bible Verse
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command.” – John 15:13-14 (NIV)
Meaning
In these verses, Jesus gives an example of the greatest expression of love—sacrifice. He’s not just referring to physical death, but also to sacrificial living, where we extend ourselves for the benefit of others. As followers of Jesus, we are commanded to love one another deeply. Hence, Jesus’ definition of friendship goes far beyond social or emotional connections; it is a relationship steeped in love, sacrifice, and obedience to His commandments.
When Jesus refers to us as His friends, He insists on obedience to His commands as a sign of that friendship. It’s in doing His will that we truly unite with Him and build a lasting friendship. In essence, a Christ-like friendship loves sacrificially and obeys the commands of Jesus.
Actions to Take
- Practise sacrificial love by putting the needs of your friends before your own.
- Seek to obey Jesus’ teaching in your interactions with your friends.
- Examine your friendships—are they built on the principles Jesus taught?
- Make a conscious effort to build and maintain godly relationships.
Journal Prompts
- What does sacrificial love look like in your current friendships?
- How can you better incorporate Jesus’ teachings into your friendships?
- Reflect on a time you’ve experienced Christ-like friendship. How did it make you feel?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, teach us to love our friends the way you’ve loved us. We desire to be true friends who love selflessly, sacrifice willingly, and uphold Your teachings in our friendships. Help us, Lord, to be guided by Your love in all our relationships. Amen.
Social Posts
- True friendship loves sacrificially and obeys Jesus’ commands. #JesusFriendship
- Let’s be guided by Jesus’ teachings in all our friendships. #ChristlikeFriendships
- “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” – John 15:13 (NIV) #Bible
Conclusion
We hope this exploration of Jesus’ teachings on friendship has blessed and guided you. Irrespective of the challenges you face in your relationships, remember that Jesus is the perfect example of a friend who loves willingly, sacrifices completely, and commands us to do the same. Let Him guide your friendships and see how they transform.
Thank you for joining us in this devotional, and we look forward to seeing you at our next study at BGodInspired.com!
Do you want to know more about what Jesus teaches about ANY topic? Then try our What Jesus Teaches GPT. This is a great modern-day companion – simply search any topic and see what Jesus has to say about it.
