What does the Bible say about friends and friendship?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that godly friendship is a faithful, loving gift that strengthens believers in wisdom and holiness, while sinful companionship can lead them astray. Proverbs 17:17 and 18:24 commend the friend who loves steadfastly and stays close in adversity. Proverbs 27:17 pictures friends sharpening one another, and Proverbs 27:6 reminds us that honest correction from a faithful friend is better than flattering harm. Believers should choose companions wisely, for Proverbs 13:20 and 1 Corinthians 15:33 warn that character is shaped by company. Christ gives friendship its fullest pattern in John 15:13, where He lays down His life for His people, calling us to self-giving love and truth.
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Proverbs 17:17
A friend loves at all times; And a brother is born for adversity.
- Proverbs 18:24
A man of many companions may be ruined, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
- Proverbs 27:17
Iron sharpens iron; So a man sharpens his friend's countenance.
- John 15:13
Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.
- Proverbs 13:20
One who walks with wise men grows wise, But a companion of fools suffers harm.
- Proverbs 27:6
Faithful are the wounds of a friend; Although the kisses of an enemy are profuse.
- 1 Corinthians 15:33
Don't be deceived! "Evil companionships corrupt good morals."
- Proverbs 12:26
A righteous person is cautious in friendship, But the way of the wicked leads them astray.
- Proverbs 16:28
A perverse man stirs up strife. A whisperer separates close friends.
- Proverbs 22:24-25
[24] Don't befriend a hot-tempered man, And don't associate with one who harbors anger: [25] Lest you learn his ways, And ensnare your soul.
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