Are They Friendly? (Prov. 18:24; Jn. 15:14)

Are They Friendly? (Prov. 18:24; Jn. 15:14) Friendly: “kind and pleasant; on good or affectionate terms; favorable or serviceable.”

Christians Should Exemplify Friendliness Friendliness is an excellent quality and should certainly characterize the Lord’s people (Acts 10:22; Prov. 22:1; 25:10; Tit. 3:1-8).

Some Do Not Exemplify Friendliness Some individuals simply do not give others an opportunity to be friendly. It is difficult to be friendly with those who do not desire such (Prov. 18:24; 2 Cor. 6:11-13; 12:15).

Do Not Allow One’s “Friendliness” to Obscure Wisdom Some members of the church attend services where the truth (on various issues) is not being taught (Cf. 1 Cor. 5:6, 9-11; 15:33; 2 Jn. 9-11). Many have been forewarned about such situations. Nevertheless, they associate with such. When it is further discussed with them, their justification: “But they were really friendly”, or, “we have ALWAYS been really close friends.”

One Could Say The Devil is Friendly And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. 2 Cor 11:14 (NKJV) The righteous should choose his friends carefully, For the way of the wicked leads them astray. Prov 12:26 (NKJV)

With the View that Some Manifest about Friendliness… 2 John 9 should read, “Whoever transgresses and does not abide in friendliness does not have God. He who abides in friendliness has both the Father and the Son.” They seem to dwell on being friendly, and place such above recognition of the doctrine of Christ. 1 Timothy 4:16 should read, “Take heed to yourself and to the friendliness. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.” Why bother with “doctrine”? Leave it out of the verse and replace it with “friendliness”.

Are They Friendly? Friendliness has its virtue and we readily admit the need to be such exists. But friendliness, like everything else, can be abused and we must guard against that. Know the doctrine of Christ and always stand for the truth (Jn. 15:14). All the friendliness in the world can not take the place of truth. Don’t let Satan deceive you by thinking that it can.

You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. John 15:14 You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. (NKJV)