Purpose-Filled Friendship: Exploring the Gospel's Effect on Friendship Itself and What it Truly Means to be a Friend

Abstract

God said in the garden of Eden that is not good for man to be alone. He gave us the gift of human relationships so that we could encourage each other, guide each other, and show love to each other. This thesis seeks to explore the purpose of one of these relationships— friendship. Friendship is deeply needed and sought after in our sinful world and must overcome many barriers in a world that encourages independence. This thesis explores the biblical ideals for friendship for which the gospel uniquely qualifies us, and shows the way our perfect friend Jesus embodies Christian friendship in his three-fold office of prophet, priest, and king.