S. Michael Houdmann Supporter Got Questions Ministries

Human beings were created to be social creatures, meaning that we are most comfortable when we have family, friends and acquaintances. Friendship is an important element in a fulfilled, contented l...

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July 01 2013 • 2 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jack Gutknecht Supporter Arizona Bible College graduate and Dallas Seminary graduate

‘A friend loveth at all times’ (Prov. 17:17): When I was in Bible college, one of our choices (in an Old Testament class which covered the Book of Proverbs) was to write about "Friendship in the Book of Proverbs." 

Friendship should be based on love even when friends are going through tests (“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity” (Pr. 17:17 NKJV). I like what Michael said, “Friends can also prove false, pretending affection for their own motives and deserting us when our friendship no longer benefits them (Psalm 55:12-14; Proverbs 19:4, 6-7).” Concerning Proverbs 19:4, 6-7, friendships that are based on money will surely fail. Compare Proverbs 6:1-5; 14:20. 

Also, what Michael said about the probability of friendships being “broken down through gossip (Proverbs 16:28) or grudges (Proverbs 17:9)” is so true! If we’re careless, gossip can ruin a true friendship (Prov. 16:28), so the best thing to do is cover offenses with love (Prov. 17:9; 1 Peter 4:8).

Finally, what Michael said about being careful when choosing friends is vital: “Proverbs 1:10-19 and Pr 4:14-19 contain warnings about friends and how we should choose them.” Friendships that are based on sin (Proverbs 10:10-19; see also Prov. 16:29-30) will surely end in shipwreck.

Ultimately, Jesus is our truest Friend, the Friend of sinners: 
The Lord Jesus Christ is ‘A friend that sticketh closer than a brother’ (Prov. 18:24) --
a Friend Who gave His all John 15:13
a Friend Who loves all classes Luke 7:34
a Friend Who loves at all times Prov. 17:17
a Friend Who loves in all states of soul Prov. 27:6; Heb. 12:6
a Friend Who is needed by all Prov. 27:10; John 6:67-68

January 15 2020 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Janet Hegna Supporter

Prov. 17:17: A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. True friendships are rare, but when you have them, they are unique and sometimes life long. It takes discerning and the Lord's guidance to pick the people you choose to be part of your life, especially with all that's going on now in the world. You can't just befriend anybody. It could cost you dearly in the long run if you're not careful. Be blessed.

April 02 2022 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jeffrey Johnson Supporter

What does the Bible say about friends?

The Bible emphasises that true friendship is precious, built on loyalty, sacrificial love, and wisdom, often stating that a faithful friend is better than family. Key principles include choosing friends carefully to avoid bad influence (Proverbs 13:20), mutual sharpening (Proverbs 27:17), and unconditional love (Proverbs 17:17)

Biblical Principles on Friendship:

Wisdom in Selection: The Bible advises choosing friends carefully, as companions can influence one's character and direction, with "bad company corrupting good character".

Loyalty and Support: A true friend loves at all times and offers support during adversity, described as sticking "closer than a brother".

Sacrificial Love: Jesus defines the highest form of friendship as laying down one's life for others, modelling selfless love (John 15:13).

Sharpening and Truth: Friends should sharpen one another (like iron sharpens iron), providing honest, often necessary correction rather than just flattery.

Conflict Resolution: Scripture advises against gossip, which destroys friendships (Proverbs 16:28), and encourages covering offences to maintain unity.

Examples:

David and Jonathan: An example of loyalty and deep covenant friendship.

Ruth and Naomi: A model of loyalty and supporting one another.

Paul and Timothy: A mentorship-based friendship built on deep affection and shared mission.

Jesus and His Disciples: Jesus transitioned His relationship with His followers from "servants" to "friends" by sharing His heart and life with them.

Proverbs 17:17: "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity."

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 highlights the value of companionship in lifting each other.

Qualities of a Biblical Friend:

Unwavering Loyalty: A true friend "loves at all times" and remains present during seasons of "adversity".

Profound Depth: Some friends stick "closer than a brother," forming a bond that can be more intimate than family ties.

Sacrificial Love: The highest form of friendship is the willingness to "lay down one's life" for another, a model set by Jesus.

Honest Accountability: The Bible values "faithful wounds"—honest correction from a friend—over the deceptive "kisses of an enemy".

Mutual Growth: Friends should "sharpen" one another, much like iron sharpens iron, challenging each other to become better people.

What are the most important friendships that humans can form?

Ge 5:22-24​—Enoch develops a close friendship with God

Ge 6:9​—Noah, like his great-grandfather Enoch, walks with God

What are some dangers of close association with those who do not share our spiritual values?

Ge 34:1, 2​—Dinah chooses bad associates, leading to tragic consequences

2Ch 18:1-3; 19:1, 2​—Jehovah rebukes good King Jehoshaphat for choosing to ally himself with wicked King Ahab

The Bible describes a true friend as a person who sticks closer than a brother, is constant in his loyalty and friendliness, comes to the aid of his companion in distress, and gives counsel to him in faithfulness. (Pr 18:24; 17:17; 27:6, 9)

Friendships can contribute to a happy and successful life. Good friends bring out the best in one another and enhance one another's strengths.—Proverbs 27:17.

Can a person be God's friend?

The Bible says: "For the perverse is an abomination to Jehovah, but his friendship is with the upright." (Proverbs 3:32) In other words, God befriends those who try to be decent, honest, and respectable, and who endeavour to live up to his standards of right and wrong. 

For example, the faithful man Abraham is specifically called God's friend in the Scriptures.—2 Chronicles 20:7; Isaiah 41:8; James 2:23.

Friendships should be built on a common belief in God and a desire to live by God's standards.

Good friends bring out the best in each other.

1 day ago • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report