1. Friendships 1 Samuel 20:1-17

2. Introduction Valuable part of our lives May have many acquaintances Need some close friends Someone to confide in when trouble comes Not just one who approves everything we do

3. English Definition Webster It is the state of being friends which is further defined as “one attached to another by affection or esteem, acquaintance, one not hostile, one that is of the same nation or group, one that favors something.” Summary: Attachments formed with those to our liking with common goals and interests

4. Greek Definition W. E. Vine He says the word philia, akin to philos, a friend (James 4:4), involves “the idea of loving as well as being loved.” (John 15:19) Summary: A close relationship with others whom we seek to please, as well as be pleasing to them

5. Ruth and Naomi (Ruth 1) “A friend who loveth at all times” (Proverbs 17:17) No more family ties (v. 16) Friend unto death (v. 18; Proverbs 27:10) Not a “fair weather friend” (Proverbs 14:20; 25:19; 2 Timothy 1:16-18) Advice: “Make friends of God’s children” (1 Corinthians 15:33)

6. David and Jonathon (1 Samuel 18, 20) “A friend that sticketh closer than a brother” (Proverbs 18:24) Made a covenant (18:3) Jonathon warned David (20:13, 30-33) Returned Jonathon’s love (2 Samuel 1:26) Advice: Let love be the basis of our friendships

7. Abraham and God (James 2:23) “The friend of God” Possible because He obeyed God (Genesis 12:1-4; 22:1-8) God kept His promises (2 Chronicles 20:7; Galatians 3:16) Advice: Be God’s friend by pleasing Him (John 8:29, 39; Hebrews 6:13-20)

8. Jesus and Mankind One who “lay down His life for His friends (John 15:13) Unselfishly died for us (Romans 5:6-8; 2 Corinthians 5:8, 9) Sympathizes with us (Hebrews 4:15, 16) “What a friend we have…” (1 Peter 5:7) Advice: Obey Him and be His friend (Proverbs 18:24; John 14:15; 15:14)

9. Forbidden Friendship What does the Bible say about the world? Be not conformed to it (Romans 12:1, 2) In the world, not of the world, hated by the world (Psalm 38:20; John 15:19; 17:15-17) Condemned by righteous living (Hebrews 11:7) Hates the Word (John 3:19-21) Expensive friendship (2 Timothy 3:12)

10. Conclusion Beneficial friendships Necessary friendship with God and Christ Forbidden friendship with the world “Make friends of God’s children”