I HAVE A FRIEND IN JESUS

TITLE: I HAVE A FRIEND IN JESUS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:
John 15:15 (NKJV) – "No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you."

Supporting Texts:
Proverbs 18:24 (NKJV) – "A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother."
Isaiah 41:8 (NKJV) – "But you, Israel, are My servant, Jacob whom I have chosen, the descendants of Abraham My friend."

INTRODUCTION:
Friendship is one of the most profound and fulfilling relationships we can experience in life. It provides companionship, support, and love. However, the ultimate friendship we can have is with Jesus Christ. In this sermon, we will explore what it means to have Jesus as our friend, the characteristics of this divine friendship, and the blessings that come from cultivating this relationship.

1. THE CALL TO FRIENDSHIP WITH JESUS
Jesus invites us into a personal and intimate relationship.

a) A Relationship of Love: Jesus expresses His love for us through His sacrifice (John 15:13).

b) An Invitation to Intimacy: He desires to share His heart and plans with us (John 15:15).

c) A Bond of Trust: Trust is essential in any friendship, and Jesus is trustworthy (Proverbs 3:5-6).

d) A Partnership in Purpose: He calls us friends, encouraging us to participate in His mission (Matthew 28:19-20).

Biblical Example:
The relationship between Jesus and the disciples exemplifies this friendship, especially during the Last Supper, where He shared His heart and mission (John 13:1-17).

2. CHARACTERISTICS OF JESUS AS A FRIEND
Understanding the nature of Jesus’ friendship reveals its depth.

a) Unconditional Love: His love is not based on our performance (Romans 5:8).

b) Faithfulness: Jesus is faithful even when we are unfaithful (2 Timothy 2:13).

c) Support in Trials: He walks with us through our challenges, offering comfort and strength (Matthew 11:28-30).

d) Intercession: Jesus intercedes for us, advocating before the Father (Romans 8:34).

Biblical Example:
In the story of Lazarus, Jesus demonstrated His compassion and support by weeping with Mary and Martha (John 11:35-36).

3. THE BLESSINGS OF HAVING JESUS AS A FRIEND
A friendship with Jesus brings numerous blessings.

a) Peace and Assurance: Jesus provides peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7).

b) Joy and Fulfilment: His friendship fills our hearts with joy (John 15:11).

c) Guidance and Wisdom: He leads us and grants us wisdom in decision-making (James 1:5).

d) Protection and Deliverance: Jesus protects us from harm and delivers us from trouble (Psalm 91:15).

Biblical Example:
In Matthew 14:22-33, Jesus calmed the storm, illustrating His ability to bring peace in chaotic situations for those who trust Him.

4. HOW TO CULTIVATE A FRIENDSHIP WITH JESUS
Building a deeper relationship with Jesus requires intentional effort.

a) Prayer: Engage in regular communication with Him (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

b) Reading His Word: Familiarise yourself with the Scriptures to understand His character and will (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

c) Obedience: Following His teachings strengthens the friendship (John 14:21).

d) Fellowship with Believers: Sharing experiences with others helps us grow in faith (Hebrews 10:24-25).

Biblical Example:
Mary and Martha, who sat at Jesus’ feet to listen to His teachings, cultivated a close relationship through attentiveness and worship (Luke 10:38-42).

5. RESPONDING TO JESUS' FRIENDSHIP
Our response to Jesus as our friend is crucial.

a) Reciprocating Love: We must love Him in return by prioritising our relationship with Him (1 John 4:19).

b) Sharing His Love: We are called to share the love of Christ with others (Matthew 22:39).

c) Living a Life of Worship: Our lives should reflect gratitude and worship for His friendship (Romans 12:1).

d) Being a Friend to Others: As Jesus exemplifies friendship, we should also be friends to others (John 15:12-13).

Biblical Example:
The early church exemplified friendship by sharing their lives and resources with one another (Acts 2:44-47).

CONCLUSION:
Having Jesus as a friend is the most incredible relationship we can cultivate. His love, support, and guidance transform our lives and enable us to face challenges with courage and hope. As we nurture this friendship through prayer, obedience, and service, we will experience the fullness of joy and peace that only He can provide.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Thank You, Jesus, for calling me Your friend!

2. Help me to recognise Your presence in my life daily!

3. I commit to deepening my relationship with You through prayer and Scripture!

4. Teach me to reciprocate Your love in my actions and words!

5. Help me to be a friend to others, reflecting Your love!

6. I declare peace in my heart through my friendship with You!

7. Guide me in my decisions as I seek Your wisdom!

8. Strengthen my faith to trust in Your goodness and faithfulness!

9. May my life be a testimony of Your friendship and grace!

10. I pray for those around me to come to know You as their friend!

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. You will experience the depth of friendship with Jesus in new ways!

2. Your heart will be filled with peace and joy as you walk with Him!

3. You will receive guidance and wisdom in every decision you make!

4. Your life will reflect the love of Christ to those around you!

5. You shall overcome every trial with the strength that comes from your friendship with Him!

6. Every chain of loneliness will be broken as you embrace the friendship of Jesus!

7. You will be empowered to be a friend to those in need, just as Christ has been to you!

8. Your relationship with Jesus will grow deeper, leading to greater spiritual fulfilment!

9. You will find comfort in His presence during difficult times!

10. The joy of the Lord will be your strength as you nurture your friendship with Him!