Five Christian Books About Friendship

Five Christian Books About Friendship

From David and Jonathan to Job and his friends to Jesus and his three closest disciples, friendship can be found throughout the Bible. Our companions can encourage us to sin, or they can help us grow in grace (Prov 13:20).

In these days of busyness, digital relationships and reported growth in loneliness, understanding Biblical friendship is vitally important. We have complied this list of five books about friendship to help you consider how to shape your relationships according to the scriptures.

True Friendship: Walking Shoulder to Shoulder

In a world saturated with social media and online connections, it’s easy to feel isolated. Even within the church, we can experience awkward and superficial interactions. True Friendship: Walking Shoulder to Shoulder by Vaughan Roberts explores the biblical foundation of true friendship, challenging us to move beyond superficial connections and to live out our true humanity as we sacrificially love others for God's glory.

Iron Sharpens Iron: Friendship and the Grace of God

In a fast-paced world where meaningful connections are often elusive, Iron Sharpens Iron: Friendship and the Grace of God by Michael A.G. Haykin provides a historical perspective on Christian friendship, drawing insights from the lives and relationships of eighteenth-century pastor-theologian Andrew Fuller. Haykin explores the importance of friendships that offer joy, comfort (in the older sense of that term as "strength") on the Christian journey, encouraging us to be the sort of friends that strive after the eternal good of one another.

Closer than a Sister: How Union with Christ Helps Friendships to Flourish

Closer Than a Sister: How Union with Christ Helps Friendships to Flourish by Christina Fox explores the transformative power of Christian friendships. She reminds us that true friendships, rooted in our unity with Christ, are sacred and sacrificial, capable of weathering any storm and reflecting God’s love to the world. Not only does Fox encourage us to develop deeper friendships, but she also points us to the best friend of all, Jesus Christ.

Transformative Friendships: 7 Questions to Deepen Any Relationship

Transformative Friendships: 7 Questions to Deepen Any Relationship by Brad Hambrick equips readers with practical tools for cultivating meaningful and lasting friendships. He offers seven simple but powerful questions that can be used to foster deeper connections and encourage mutual understanding, allowing us to embrace the transformative power of sharing our stories and listening to the stories of others.

No Greater Love: A Biblical Vision For Friendship

In a culture that often prioritizes romantic love and familial love, No Greater Love: A Biblical Vision for Friendship by Rebecca McLaughlin reminds us of the crucial role of friendship in the Christian life. She explores how these vital relationships can be both life-giving and deadly. Do our friends draw us on to Christ? Or do they destroy, exploit or entice us to sin?

McLaughlin draws on Scripture, particularly the Gospels and the writings of Paul, to demonstrate the profound impact of friendship and how we can cultivate friendships that reflect the love of Jesus.

Conclusion

These books offer insights into the nature of Christian friendship, providing guidance, encouragement, and inspiration for navigating the complexities of these essential relationships. Whether you're seeking to deepen existing friendships, cultivate new connections, or simply gain a deeper understanding of the biblical perspective on friendship, these books are a valuable resource.