2. I’ll Be a to Jesus
FRIEND
John 15:12-15

3. To Be A Friend
philos; properly, dear, i.e. a friend; actively, fond, i.e. friendly (still as a noun, an associate, neighbor, etc.): — friend. (Strong)
“he who associates familiarly with one, a companion” (ibid.)
“beloved, dear…loving, kindly disposed, devoted” (Bauer, Arndt, Gingrich; 868)

4. Characteristics of Friends
Mutual interests/values – James 4:4; 2:23; Heb. 11:10, 13,16
Selfless and genuine care – Job 2:11-13
Not take only, but give – Acts 20:35
Defend each other – Proverbs 17:17; Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Confide in each other – Colossians 4:7-9

5. I’ll be a Friend to Jesus
Jesus has been a friend to us, and desires our friendship – John 15:12-15
Our relationship with Jesus is through His word:
He is the word; we know Him through the word – John 1:1; 1 John 1:1-3
He dwells in us by faith – John 14:23; Galatians 2:20; Romans 10:17
To cast away the word is to cast away Jesus – Colossians 2:6-10

6. I’ll be a Friend to Jesus
Our friendship toward Jesus regards keeping His commandments
Instruction to disciples – John 14:1-6, 15
His friendship expressed – John 15:13-15
Friendship reciprocated – John 15:14

7. I’ll be a Friend to Jesus
A friend of Jesus:
Is not ashamed of His word – Romans 1:16
Is not ashamed to live like Him – Romans 13:14; Peter 2:11-12
Will defend Him by defending His word – Timothy 3:15; 1 Peter 3:15

8. I’ll Be a to Jesus
FRIEND
John 15:12-15