In this sermon, Norm emphasizes the biblical view of friendship, drawing extensively from the wisdom literature in Proverbs.
Key scriptures include Proverbs 17:17 (“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity”) and Proverbs 18:24 (“A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother”), both underscoring the steadfast and enduring nature of true friendship. Proverbs 27:6 (“Faithful are the wounds of a friend; profuse are the kisses of an enemy”) highlights the importance of honesty and accountability within friendships.
The sermon compares familial obligations with the voluntary commitment found in friendships, noting that while family is bound by duty, friends are chosen and maintained intentionally. Proverbs 27:17 (“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another”) serves as a metaphor for the refining and strengthening aspects of genuine friendships.
The message concludes with a Christ-centered perspective, pointing to Jesus as the ultimate friend, Norm referencing John 15:13 (“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends”) to illustrate sacrificial love. Norm also emphasizes that the wisdom found in Proverbs not only guides earthly friendships but also points to the deeper relationship Christians are invited to have with Christ, who calls His followers friends and models perfect love and faithfulness.