Choose Your Friends Wisely

Summary: This sermon focuses on the importance of making wise choices in friendships according to biblical principles.

Application: By examining the biblical wisdom concerning friendships, Christians can navigate relationships more intentionally, avoiding harmful influences and cultivating edifying friendships.

Teaching: The sermon teaches the audience how to discern between positive and negative influences in friendships, and how to be intentional about surrounding themselves with people who will encourage them in their faith.

How this passage could point to Christ: In Scripture, we see Jesus choosing disciples who were loyal, supportive, and committed to His mission. He also associated with sinners to show love and offer redemption, but His core circle of friends reflected qualities of loyalty, devotion, and accountability.

Big Idea: Choosing friends wisely is essential for spiritual growth and protection. The quality of our friendships influences our faith journey and character development.

Recommended Study: For further study, consider examining the biblical principles of friendship in books like Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the writings of Paul in the New Testament. Use Logos to explore the cultural context of friendship in biblical times and how it relates to our modern understanding of relationships.

1. Wisdom Walks with Wisdom

Proverbs 13:20

You could start by exploring how Proverbs 13:20 emphasizes the impact of our companions on our wisdom or folly, drawing parallels to Jesus’ selective companionship that was both inclusive and intentional. The application might encourage listeners to evaluate their friendships through a lens of spiritual growth and wisdom.

Proverbs 13:20 CEV

Wise friends make you wise, but you hurt yourself by going around with fools.

2. Character Compromised

1 Corinthians 15:33

Perhaps delve into 1 Corinthians 15:33 to discuss the biblical truth that 'bad company corrupts good character,' contrasting this with Jesus’ life, where His companionship never compromised His mission or character. This could guide attendees to consider how their relationships influence their behavior and faith.

1 Corinthians 15:33 NLT

Don’t be fooled by those who say such things, for “bad company corrupts good character.”

Imagine a hypothetical world where every person had a friend who was always cheerful and uplifting. How do you think that would shape society? I bet we’d witness a ripple effect of kindness and good morals. When we surround ourselves with positivity, our own light shines brighter. Just like the Bible says in Proverbs 27:17, 'As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.'

You might find it difficult to spot friends who uplift you amidst peer pressure. Seek friends who share your values and encourage you to uphold them. Make a list of your core beliefs and look for peers who embody those traits. Invite them to study together or to join school groups that align with your interests and values. This shared space can foster deeper conversations and help you form connections with like-minded classmates who motivate you positively.\

Christian Clubs are a place to meet others who also are open to or value positive Christian morals and beliefs.

3. Committed Love Cultivates

John 15:12-15

Maybe reflect on John 15:12-15, where Jesus talks about His friendship with His disciples, to illustrate the depth of commitment and love expected in godly friendships. This could help listeners understand the Christ-centered model of friendship that fosters spiritual accountability and growth.

John 15:12–15 (ESV)

12 “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 13 Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command you. 15 No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.