The Character Of “Genuine Friendship”
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Text:Proverbs 17:17 and John 15:13
Introduction:We are in the age of “Facebook Friendship” It seems as if the meaning of friendship and true friendship is being diminished by this social media platform. Could the Facebook Façade be the catalyst for friendship facade? Sounds counterfeit to me… let’s take a real look at genuine friendship.
Point 1: What does it mean to be a “Genuine Friend”
- Real friendship is free from duplicity.
- Genuine: (1103) “Gnesios”means genuine and real
- Friend: Heb.-“Reya” & “Aheb” / “Philos”
- “Reya”A close associate used to describe friend, companion, brother, husband
- “Aheb”To have or show affection for. One who is loving and beloved, intimate
- “Philos”_To feel fondness. A warm and tender affection for . Desire to be with and delight in.
Point 2: The Character of Genuine Friendship
- There are common characteristics to true friendship.
- Loyalty:_To be loyal is to demonstrate steadfast allegiance to a person in all circumstances and situations. To remain faithful.
*Proverbs 17:17, 1 Sam. 18:1-4, 1 Sam. 19:1-8
- Affection:_Means to possess a strong feeling of tender affection and fondness toward another person.
*2 Timothy 1:3-4 and Philippians 1:8
- Faithful Candor:_Means to speak with thoughtful reproof to help another person overcome a fault or bad habit.
*Proverbs 27:5-6 and Galatians 2:9-14
- Selfless, sacrificial love:_Means to sacrifice yourself to put the needs and interests of another person before your own.
*John 15:12-13 and Philippians 2:20-21
Practical Applications:
What other Biblical characteristics of friendship can you identify?
In your opinion is Loyalty important in friendship? Explain why you believe this way.
Why do you think Affection is an important part of friendship?
Why do you think “Faithful Candor” was used as a character quality of genuine friendship?
Can there be genuine friendship without selfless, sacrificial love?
Points for Prayer:
- _____________________________________________
- _____________________________________________
- _____________________________________________
- _____________________________________________