Friendship with God sermon passage text: Matthew 3 : 13–17; John 1 : 35–36
(A) Introduction
In the Bible (KJV & NIV), only three (3) people were directly named by God as His friend. This does not imply that others were not close to God. In fact, many were described with unique attributes such as:
- Enoch – “walked with God” – Genesis 5:22
- Noah – “found grace” – Genesis 6:8
- Job – “My servant” – Job 1:8
- David – “A man after God’s heart” – Isaiah 13:14
- Ananias – “A certain disciple” – Acts 9:10
However, those explicitly described as God’s friends include:
- Abraham – 2 Chronicles 20:7; James 2:23
- Moses – Exodus 33:11
- Lazarus – John 11:11
This underscores the spiritual depth and intimacy of friendship with God, a relationship marked by trust, loyalty, and mutual affection.
True friendship with God is not merely a biblical theme; it is a divine invitation that remains open to every believer today. This friendship offers more than religious observance—it brings personal connection, spiritual strength, and eternal purpose.
(B) Who is a Friend?
To better understand what it means to have a friendship with God, let us explore general definitions of the word “friend.”
Dictionary Definitions:
- The Chambers Dictionary:
- A person loving or attached to another
- A favourer, well-wisher, and supporter
- Longman Active Study Dictionary:
- Someone you know well and enjoy spending time with
- Bits and Pieces Magazine (July 1991):
- “A friend is the one who comes in when the whole world has gone out.”
Contemporary Quotes:
- Anonymous: “A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and can sing it back to you when you have forgotten.”
- Abraham Lincoln: “A better part of one’s life consists of his friendships.”
Clearly, a true friend stands with you despite the cost. This foundational idea extends powerfully into what it means to be a friend of God.
In the context of faith, God is not just a distant deity. He desires a deep and loving friendship with those who seek Him. Through prayer, obedience, and time in His Word, believers can cultivate a personal relationship that reflects biblical friendship.
(C) The Importance of Friendship
Friendship is one of the most precious gifts from God and holds spiritual and emotional significance in our lives. Consider these biblical insights:
- It is a divine gift: Genesis 2:18 – “It is not good for man to be alone.”
- It is a worthwhile investment: Ecclesiastes 4:9 – “Two are better than one.”
- It requires effort: You must work to build and sustain meaningful friendships – Ecclesiastes 4:9
Thus, cultivating friendship with God requires intentionality, trust, and consistent investment.
Moreover, a friendship with God provides emotional stability and spiritual clarity. When the world offers uncertainty, God’s friendship offers unwavering love and guidance. It gives us a foundation that no hardship or storm can shake.
(D) Who is a True Friend?
Using the story of the paralytic (Luke 5:18–26) and Ecclesiastes 4:9–12, we can identify key attributes of a true friend:
- Helps you when you are down – Ecclesiastes 4:10; Luke 5:18
- Provides warmth in a cold, harsh world – Ecclesiastes 4:11; Luke 5:18; Matthew 26:36–38; Proverbs 12:25
- Protects your reputation – Ecclesiastes 4:12; Matthew 26:35, 51
- Helps you grow, even at a personal cost – Proverbs 27:17
Friendship with God embodies these very traits, as God lifts, comforts, defends, and refines those who walk closely with Him.
Additionally, God’s friendship is unique because it is perfect. Unlike human relationships that can sometimes falter, God’s loyalty never fails. He never leaves nor forsakes us, and His promises are sure. When we fail, He forgives. When we are weak, He strengthens.
(E) Some Requirements for True Friendship
Developing a strong friendship—whether with others or with God—demands certain character traits:
- Have a friendly disposition – Proverbs 18:24
- Be loyal to your friend – Proverbs 17:17
- Speak the truth, even when it hurts – Proverbs 27:6
- Choose your friends wisely – John 6:70; John 15:15
If you desire true friendship with God, these principles are crucial. Being a friend of God means being honest, faithful, and actively pursuing His will.
Jesus modeled divine friendship by sharing His heart with His disciples.
In John 15:15, He declared, “I no longer call you servants… I have called you friends, for everything I learned from my Father, I have made known to you.” This kind of transparency and trust defines what it means to walk with God as His friend.
How to Cultivate Friendship with God
Here are several practical ways to deepen your friendship with God:
- Spend time in prayer: Consistent communication is key to any relationship. Talk to God daily, not just to ask, but to listen.
- Read and meditate on His Word: Scripture reveals God’s thoughts and character.
- Obey His commands: As Jesus said, “You are my friends if you do what I command.” – John 15:14
- Worship regularly: Personal and corporate worship keeps your heart aligned with His.
- Walk in the Spirit: Stay sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance and correction.
Building a friendship with God is a lifelong journey. As with any friendship, it grows stronger with time, commitment, and shared experiences.
Final Thoughts On Friendship with God sermon
As seen in the lives of Abraham, Moses, and Lazarus, friendship with God is a privilege reserved for those who walk in faith, obedience, and sincerity. In today’s world, where relationships are often shallow and transactional, nurturing a divine friendship provides lasting peace, guidance, and joy.
Would you be called a friend of God today?
Let us strive for that high honor by walking with Him daily, choosing His presence above all, and loving Him as He has loved us.
Benefits of Friendship with God:
- Clarity in confusion – God directs your path
- Strength in trials – His presence brings courage
- Peace in chaos – You are never truly alone
- Eternal inheritance – Friendship with God leads to everlasting life
"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
Developing a genuine friendship with God is the foundation for a fulfilled Christian life. More than doctrine or routine, it is about intimacy, trust, and walking closely with the Creator. Accept His invitation today and experience the joy of knowing and being known by God.
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