While the word "befriend" doesn't appear directly in most common translations of the Bible, the *concept* of friendship and its associated actions (like building relationships, showing kindness, and offering support) are central themes throughout Scripture. Here's a breakdown of relevant verses and ideas:
* Proverbs on Friendship: The book of Proverbs is replete with wisdom on choosing and maintaining friendships:
* Proverbs 17:17: "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." (This emphasizes loyalty and support in difficult times.)
* Proverbs 18:24: "A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." (This suggests that quality over quantity matters in friendship, and true friends are deeply committed.)
* Proverbs 27:9: "Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice." (This highlights the value of wise counsel from friends.)
* Proverbs 27:17: "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." (This speaks to the mutual growth and improvement that comes from good friendships.)
* Examples of Friendship: The Bible showcases several powerful examples of friendships:
* David and Jonathan (1 Samuel 18:1-4, 20:1-42): Their bond is one of the most famous examples of loyalty and sacrifice in the Bible. Jonathan, despite being heir to the throne, loved David as himself and protected him from his father's (Saul's) jealousy.
* Ruth and Naomi (Ruth 1:16-17): Ruth's unwavering loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi, even after the death of her husband, demonstrates profound friendship and commitment.
* Jesus and his Disciples: Jesus chose twelve disciples to be his closest companions. He shared his life, teachings, and ministry with them. The Gospels show the deep love and care he had for them. John 15:13: "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends." Jesus ultimately did this for all people.
* Love and Fellowship: The New Testament emphasizes the importance of loving one another and building community:
* John 13:34-35: "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." (This command to love is a foundation for building friendships and relationships.)
* Romans 12:10: "Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves." (This verse encourages prioritizing and valuing relationships.)
* Hebrews 10:24-25: "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." (This highlights the importance of encouraging and supporting one another within a community.)
* Being a Friend to the Friendless: The Bible also emphasizes caring for the marginalized and those in need of companionship:
* Isaiah 1:17: "Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow." (While not directly about "friendship," this emphasizes caring for those who are often alone and vulnerable.)
* Matthew 25:31-46: The parable of the sheep and the goats illustrates that serving others, including the hungry, thirsty, sick, and imprisoned, is a way of showing love to God and, by extension, being a friend to those in need.
In conclusion: Although the exact word "befriend" might not be frequently used, the Bible provides abundant guidance and examples of the principles behind it: loving others, building relationships, offering support, and showing kindness. These are all essential components of being a good friend and following the teachings of the Christian faith.