Who is a friend of Christ?
Jesus himself said, "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends" (John 15:13). This means that being a friend of Christ involves selflessly serving others, just as He did during His time on earth.
In the Christian faith, being a friend of Christ is a title that holds great significance. It goes beyond simply believing in Jesus as the Son of God and Savior of the world. So, who exactly is a friend of Christ?
First and foremost, a friend of Christ is someone who has a personal and intimate relationship with Him. This relationship is built on love, trust, and faith. It is a two-way connection where both parties communicate, support, and grow together. Just like how you would cultivate a friendship with someone here on earth, being a friend of Christ requires time, effort, and a willingness to listen and obey His teachings.
Another essential aspect of being a friend of Christ is following His commandments. In the Gospel of John, Jesus says, "You are my friends if you do what I command" (John 15:14). This means that being a friend of Christ involves living a life that honors and pleases Him. It means striving to live a life that reflects His love and grace, and actively seeking to do His will in all things.
Furthermore, a friend of Christ is someone who seeks to know Him more deeply through prayer, reading the Bible, and participating in the sacraments. By spending time in prayer and meditation, a friend of Christ opens themselves up to His presence and guidance. Through reading the Bible, they come to understand His teachings and the way He lived His life. And by participating in the sacraments, such as Communion and Baptism, they are reminded of the grace and forgiveness that He offers to all who believe in Him.
A friend of Christ is also someone who seeks to serve others in His name. Jesus himself said, "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends" (John 15:13). This means that being a friend of Christ involves selflessly serving others, just as He did during His time on earth. Whether it be feeding the hungry, comforting the sick, or caring for the marginalized, a friend of Christ is called to be a beacon of love and compassion in a world that is often filled with hatred and division.
Lastly, a friend of Christ is someone who is willing to stand up for their beliefs, even in the face of adversity. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus says, "Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in Heaven" (Matthew 10:32). This means that being a friend of Christ involves boldly proclaiming His name and His teachings, even when it is unpopular or challenging to do so.