40 Bible Verses about Friendship

40 Bible Verses about Friendship

Friendship is a valuable aspect of human life and holds significant importance in the Bible. Throughout the scriptures, there are both positive and negative insights on the nature of true friendship and its impact on our lives. It should be noted that in the Bible, friendship is greatly seen in the New Testament between Jesus and the 12 disciples.

Aside from being his followers, the disciples can be seen as Jesus’s friends because they prayed with Him and traveled with him. David and Jonathan are also a great example of friendship. Despite coming from different social positions, their friendship was very great and strong.

Friendship is also a reflection of God’s love for humanity because God is described as our friend, constant companion, and a source of support. God’s love for us is the divine friendship that serves as a model for our earthly relationships. 

Here are the 40 Bible Verses about Friendship;

1. Ruth 1:17

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The verse says, “Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me.” It is a powerful passage that shows the relationship between Ruth and Naomi. Even though Naomi was Ruth’s mother-in-law, they had created a friendship that led to their great bond.

The verse can be seen as a reminder that true friendship is not about the pleasant times only but also the commitment in the face of adversity. It is also a reminder of the importance of loyalty, love, and selflessness.

2. 2 Samuel 10:2

The verse states, “I will show kindness to Hanun son of Nahash, just as his father showed kindness to me.” In the passage, we see the importance of kindness amid conflict. It is significant because it shows that David is willing to extend friendship even to those who have wronged him. It also depicts David’s respect for the memory of Nahash.

Read about the 30 Bible verses based on strength here.

3. 2 Kings 2:2

The passage says, “And Elijah said to Elisha, ‘Please stay here, for the Lord has sent me to Bethel.’ But Elisha replied, ‘As surely as the Lord lives and as you live, I will not leave you.’ So they went down to Bethel.” The verse is a story of friendship between Elijah and Elisha. The phrase “As surely as the Lord lives and as you live.” is a way of Elisha swearing an oath. He is also saying that he won’t leave Elijah no matter what. The verse is a testament to the power of friendship to overcome obstacles.

4. Job 2:11

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The verse states, “Now when Job’s three friends the Temanite, Bildad and Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite-heard about all the adversity that had come upon him, each of them came from his home, and they met together by agreement to go and sympathize with him and comfort him.”

Through this passage, we see the arrival of Job’s three friends who are visiting Job after his misfortunes. This is a great reflection of friendship in its truest form. Job’s friends came to visit him when everyone else avoided him.

5. Job 6:14

It says, “To him is afflicted pity should be showed from his friend; so that he doesn’t forsake the fear of the Almighty.” The verse can be seen as a plea for compassion and understanding towards those who are suffering. It also suggests that true friendship is about the support we get during times of hardship. The phrase “from his friend” emphasizes the importance of friendship in times of need. True friends are those who stand by us through thick and thin.

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6. Job 16:20- 21

The passage states, “My friends scorn me; my eyes pour out tears to God. Oh, that one might plead for a man with God, as one pleads for his neighbor!” The verses describe how Job feels about his friends visiting. Even though it was a thoughtful gesture, Job noted that his friends added to his anguish with their judgmental words.

The phrase “My friends scorn me” shows how Job is disappointed in his companions. He expected them to be his source of strength but they turned against him. The verse is a great example of why friendships shouldn’t be based on the success and benefit a person can bring to the table but on the compassion and kindness of a person.

7. Job 42:10

The verse says, “And the Lord turned the captivity of Job when he prayed for his friends: also the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before.” Through this verse, we see how Job interceded for his friends even though he was facing his own hardship. This is a great example of a true friendship, having compassion for others while you suffering. 

Read about the story of Joshua here.

8. Proverbs 11:13

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The passage states, “A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.” The proverb highlights the negative consequences of gossiping and the importance of discretion. It also shows the value of trustworthiness and the positive impact of keeping secrets. In a friendship, it is important to keep a secret and keep the trust as well as the bond you have developed together.

9. Proverbs 12:26

It says, “The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.” Through this proverb, we can see the importance of choosing our friends wisely and the consequences of associating with wrongdoers. The verse shows how the righteous seek out friends who share their values, moral compass, and principles. They also recognize that the company they keep can significantly impact their lives. However, some people choose wrongdoers as their friends which leads to negative consequences.

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10. Proverbs 13:20

The verse states, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools will suffer harm.” The proverb notes the importance of choosing our companions wisely as well as the consequences of associating with foolish individuals. It also emphasizes the importance of seeking out wise and knowledgeable companions. It should be noted that our companions influence our thoughts, actions, and decisions. 

11. Proverbs 16:28

It states, “A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a whisperer separates close friends.” The proverb highlights the troublesome nature of gossip as well as its potential to disrupt relationships. Gossiping behind someone’s back and sharing their secret without their consent can erode trust and undermine the foundations of friendships. It should be noted that gossip has no place in true friendships. 

12. Proverbs 17:9

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It says, “Whoever covers an offense seeks love, but whoever repeats a matter separates close friends.” This proverb sheds light on the true meaning of forgiveness as well as the consequences of dwelling on past offenses. It is also about being gracious towards our friends by recognizing that mistakes are inevitable in any and all relationships. True friendship requires a willingness to overlook imperfections and focus on the positive aspects of imperfections.

13. Proverbs 18:24

The verse states, “A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” This passage shows the importance of quality in friendships. Instead of seeking quantity in our friendships, we should be cultivating a deep and meaningful connection with the few friends we have. A true friend is someone who will always be there for us in times of need. Searching for a friend group might look good on the outside but they might not be loyal and supportive.

14. Proverbs 22:24-25

The passage states, “Do not make friends with a hot-tempered man or associate with one easily angered, for he will teach you his ways, and you will being a ruin on yourself.” The verse simply shows the dangers of associating with hot-tempered individuals. Proverbs 22:24-25 encourages us to choose our companions carefully, that is important to choose people with good behaviors, peaceful interactions, and personal growth. If we surround ourselves with patient individuals who are also understanding and emotionally mature, we can have a supportive environment.

15. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

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It says, “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they are warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one might be overpowered by another, two can withstand the attack. A threefold cord isn’t quickly broken.”

These verses reflect on the power of companionship as well as the importance of having supportive people in our lives. They also show the power of having companionship because we can work together to achieve our common goals. It is easier to live life with a support system that provides a sense of belonging.

16. Matthew 22:37-39

It says, “Jesus replied: ‘Love thy Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'” These verses are noted as the Great Commandment because Jesus teaches that loving your neighbor as you love yourself is the foundation of Christian morality as well as ethical living. This shows the importance of being compassionate to others just like we would like to be treated.

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17. Luke 6:31

The passage states, “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” It is known as the Golden Rule because it is a simple yet powerful statement. The verse encourages humanity to extend compassion, forgiveness to others, and generosity. It also shows the principle of putting ourselves in another’s shoes before we do or say something that may hurt them.

Luke 6:31 has been echoed in a number of cultures and religions throughout the years. It is a universal reminder that we have a responsibility to treat each other with dignity and respect.

18. John 15:12-14

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It says, “My commandment is this: Love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than his: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. These things I have commanded you that you may love one another.” These verses are an introduction to the central commandment to his disciples.

They also emphasize that Jesus’ commandments are a pathway to deeper love and connection. John 15:12-14 can be seen as a reminder that true friendship is about a deep bond of love, shared purpose, and sacrifice. 

19. 1 Peter 1:22

It states, “Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart.” The verse reminds us that true love is both a choice and a commitment. It is also a powerful reminder of the importance of love in the Christian life. 

20. Romans 5:10

The verse says, “For if while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.” The passage shows the essence of the Christian gospel. Romans 5:10 assures us that we can be reconciled to Him through the death and life of His Son, Jesus Christ.

Read about the interesting facts about the Catholic bible here.

21. Romans 12:10-15

The passage says, “Outdo one another in showing honor. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction faithful in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” Through these verses, we can see the need to be empathetic with others. We should be there to celebrate the highs and grieve the lows of our friends.

22. Romans 13:10

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The verse states that “Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” The verse suggests that love is the ultimate goal of all of God’s commandments. If we love others, we will treat them with respect, kindness, and compassion. The greatest kind of love is one that is concerned about the people around them and not just themselves. It also reminds us that love is the foundation of all Christian living.

23. Romans 8:37

It says, “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” The verse is a reminder that our victory isn’t based on our own strength but on God’s love. It also offers a message of hope and encouragement in the face of adversity. Through God’s love and friendship, we are able to overcome every challenge and hardship.

24. 1 Corinthians 13:4-6

It says, “Love is patient and kind; love doesn’t envy or boast, it is not arrogant or rude. It doesn’t insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it doesn’t rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth.” The passage is known as the Love Chapter because it provides a beautiful definition of love. It also highlights the essential qualities and characteristics. True love and friendship are seeking the well-being of others without comparing ourselves.

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25. 1 Corinthians 13:7

The verse states, “Love bears all things, believes all things, hope all things, endures all things.” Through this verse, we can see the capacity of love to withstand any burden because love has the strength to persevere through trials, adversity, and betrayal. It is also a powerful reminder of the transformative power of love as well as the ability of love to overcome the most challenging circumstances.

26. 1 Corinthians 15:3

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The verse states “For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures.” The passage serves as a powerful reminder of the centrality of Jesus’s death in the Christian faith. It also emphasizes the importance of passing on this essential truth to others. 1 Corinthians 15:3 encourages us to live in light of its profound implications for our lives.

27. Galatians 2:20

It says, “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” The verse is a great reminder that she shouldn’t live according to our own desires but according to the will of Christ who lives in us. Galatians 2:20 is an insight into the nature of true friendship as well as its foundation in mutual love, shared purpose, and support.

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28. Galatians 6:2

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The passage says, “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” It should be noted that verse is cited as a cornerstone of Christian friendship because it emphasizes the importance of mutual support and burden-sharing in our relationships with one another. The verse also highlights the transformative power of friendship. If we embody empathy, compassion, and commitment to fulfill the law of Christ in our relationships we can reflect the love of Christ.

29. Ephesians 4:2-3

It says, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” These verses emphasize the importance of humility, gentleness, and patience in a Christian friendship. It should be noted that true friends are willing to overlook imperfections, extend grace, and forgive mistakes. They also recognize that everyone makes mistakes.

30. Ephesians 4:29

The verse states, “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such as is good for edifying, according to the need of the moment, that it may give grace to those who hear.” It shows the importance of using our words to build up and encourage others rather than tear them down.

Ephesians 4:29 notes that we should be mindful of the tone of our words, we should listen attentively to others, we should be slow to speak, and we should use our words to promote unity.

31. Philippians 2:4

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It says, “Do not merely look out for your own interests, but look out for the interest of others.” The verse highlights the transformative power of shifting our focus from self-interest to the needs of others. It is also a reminder of the need to be selfless in the Christian life. If we look beyond our own concerns we can serve and care for other people.

32. Colossians 3:13-14

It states, “Bear with one another and forgive one another if any of you have a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” The verses show the importance of forgiveness and love in all our relationships with others. Colossians 3:13-14 is calling us to move beyond our own resentments and embrace love as well as forgiveness that God has offered us.

33. 1 Thessalonians 5:11

The verse says, “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are already doing.” This is a reminder that we aren’t meant to go through life alone rather we should support and uplift each other. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 is also a reminder of the importance of encouragement as well as building each other up. The verse also calls us to be active participants in the lives of our fellow believers.

34. Hebrews 10:24-25

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The verse says, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” It is a compelling reminder of the importance of community. The highlight of the verses is the transformative power of collective action and the need to foster a supportive environment.

35. Hebrews 13:5

It states, “Keep your likes free from the love of money and be content with what you have because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'” The verse is a reminder that true contentment comes from knowing God and trusting in His promises. It is also a source of comfort and encouragement. Hebrews 13:5 also shows that we should find contentment and peace in the Lord.

36. James 2:23

The passage reads, “And the Scripture was fulfilled that says, ‘Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness’- and he was called God’s friend.” It is a powerful reminder that our faith should be evident in our actions. We should embody the same faith as Abraham so that we can be closer to God and experience the fullness of His love and grace.

37. James 4:4

It states, “You adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God” The verse is a warning against the dangers of seeking friendship with the world instead of with God. It also emphasizes worldly values and lifestyles with a genuine Christian life. James 4:4 is a reminder that we must choose between friendship with the world or a friendship with God which leads to eternal life and true fulfillment.

38. 1 Peter 4:8-10

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The passage reads, “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly since love covers a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” The verse emphasizes our relationship with one another and with God. We should seek opportunities to care for others. It also shows the importance of embodying good qualities and reflecting on the light of Christ in the world.

39. 1 John 4:7-8

The verse says, “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God because God is love.” The verse emphasizes the foundation of our relationship with Him and with one another. It is also a great reminder that love is the very essence of God as well as the foundation of our relationship with Him. When we love one another, we are reflecting on God’s character.

40. 1 John 4:11

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The verse states, “Beloved if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” The verse calls us to reflect on the love in our relationships with one another. It is also a practical response to God’s love for us. 1 John 4:11 is also a reminder that loving others means we should seek the best for others even when it’s difficult. The verse also shows us the need to make love the foundation of our relationships with one another.

All in all, these verses give us an insight into Christian friendships as well as the foundation of each relationship. It should be noted that the Bible calls us to make good friends who will encourage us as well as help us grow our faith. They also talk about the need to make friends with people whose love and hope are in the Lord. If we surround ourselves with good people then our actions, thoughts, and words will be based on the word of the Lord. We should also choose carefully who we allow in our close circles because their behavior and morals can affect us.