The way the word ‘friend’ is commonly used today would more accurately describe an acquaintance. There is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24). Salvation is unconditional but not friendship. Are you a friend to Jesus. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. (John 15:14). Jesus has been your friend. God called Abraham a friend after Mt. Moriah, demonstrating that sacrifice is a core element of friendship. What is our response when Jesus asks us for something? Friends are willing to do things for friends, not get something from friends. A true friend is compelled to tell the truth to a friend. Can Jesus tell you the truth through a preacher?` Do we stick up for our friend when the world insults Him? We should be willing to lay down our life for our friend but are we willing to die to self?
