CHRISTIAN FRIENDSHIP

The Evolution of Friendship

  • Survival in hunter-gather societies depended on cooperation among genetically unrelated individuals

  • Friendship was essential for collaboration and group survival beyond mating and family bonds

  • Extroversion and trust were less critical when everyone knew each other and worked closely for survival

  • Mistrust was primarily reserved for outsides, not within the group

In today’s world, friendship helps build and sustain community, offering protection against loneliness and distress

Friendship in the Digital World

  • Online platforms enable connections that transcend geographical boundaries, fostering relationships through virtual interactions(Subrahmanyam & Greenfield, 2008)

Social Analysis

The Loneliness Epidemic

  • Loneliness is a significant and growing issue, as highlighted by a 2018 Cigna study involving 20,000 Americans

  • Young Adults(Gen-Z, 18-22) are lonelier than other generations

  • is a global scourge associated with physical and mental illness, unhealthy lifestyles, and increased morality

Six Factors that Block Friendship:

  • Introversion

  • Fear of Rejection

  • Pragmatism in Relationships

  • Low Trust

  • Time Constraints

  • High Standards

Theological Analysis

  • Biblical Friendship Models

    • David and Jonathan(1 Samuel 18-20)

      • Jonathan helped David with Saul tried to kill David which exemplifies unwavering loyalty despite personal risk

    • Ruth and Naomi(Ruth 1:16)

      • even though not blood related, they did not leave each other even though Naomi insisted which shows loyalty transcending familial ties

    • Jesus and His Disciples

      • Jesus performs the ultimate act of hospitality and friendship by washing the guests’ feet that’s often done by servant to royalties

      • it symbolizes ultimate friendship and service

The Catechism’s View on Friendship

  • Friendship is a sign and outcome of God’s endless generosity

  • Friendship with God is the basis of harmony with ihe self and harmony with creation

Lyric Video Questions:

  1. Jesus is a safe place for everyone even though some people don’t believe in him. No matter what we are feeling in the moment, we know that we can talk to God like how we share information with our friends whether it’s something positive or negative. In my group/s of friends, we always share what we feel in the moment when we get together.

  2. I think I could be there for them in their highs and lows, and I won’t question their feelings if they don’t wish to be questioned. But, I will try to help them if they feel like they want help.

  3. Even though God made everyone different, God made us as brothers and sisters of Christ. With the same idea in minds, I treat everyone like my brother and sister as much as possible, even with my friends.