Friendship resources
Friendship is fundamental for our flourishing and our faith. Single Friendly Church Network has recently been reflecting on the importance of friendship for single people and church communities.
Here is a selection of resources which may be helpful for churches and individuals as you reflect on your own friendships and how your church might encourage deeper relationships to form in your community.
Bible verses on Friendship
‘A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.' Proverbs 17:17 (NIV)
‘One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.’ Proverbs 18:24 (NIV)
‘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.’ Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NIV)
‘Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.’ John 15:13 (NIV)
“Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another: “What! You too? I thought I was the only one!”
Books and Courses on Friendship
If you want to explore friendship in your church, small group, or as an individual, here are a few books and courses which may help.
Friendship Lab–Courses for churches and individuals to build friendships that bring joy, support, and meaning into your life.
The Best of Friends: Choose Wisely, Care Well – Book by Phil Knox, with an accompanying video series and discussion questions for small groups
No Greater Love: A Biblical Vision for Friendship – Book by Rebecca McLaughlin
Please be aware that Single Friendly Church Network does not officially endorse every resource on this list. You are advised to do your own research. If you have any feedback or suggestions, you are welcome to email us.
Our Podcast series on Friendship
What do single people say about their friendships?
As part of our series exploring friendship, we ran a survey asking single people about their experiences of friendship, both in and outside of church.
94 people shared their thoughts, and some of the results were surprising. Read their stories and consider how we can make church a place where everyone can find life-giving friendships.
More talks and reflections on friendship
Who were Jesus’ closest friends?
Faith Fun and Friendship: 5 ways to make the most of Christian festivals
“In this world two things are essential: life and friendship. Both should be highly prized and we must not undervalue them.”