What does the Bible say about friendship with the world?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible warns that friendship with the world, meaning devotion to its fallen values and desires, is hostility toward God and calls believers to wholehearted allegiance to Christ. James 4:4 teaches that we cannot seek the world's approval while remaining faithful to God, for sinful desires produce conflict and spiritual adultery. Romans 12:2 urges Christians not to be conformed to this age but to be transformed by the renewing of their minds. First John 2:15-17 forbids love for the world's lust, pride, and passing pleasures, while assuring believers that those who do God's will abide forever. Yet Christians are not called to withdraw from people, but to live as God's children in a dark world, bearing holy and compassionate witness.