The Essence of Friendship with Jesus

Pastor Tommy reflects on the concept of friendship, noting the difference between acquaintances and true friends.

Many people have acquaintances but few genuine friends.

He recalls Arthur McMillan's statement: "I consider you my friend, but my best friend is Jesus."

Pastor Tommy emphasizes that friendship with Jesus is a constant challenge, pushing one to become more like Him.

Friendship with Jesus challenges individuals to become less like themselves and more like Him.

Qualities of Jesus as a Friend

Jesus Talks to Me

Unlike casual friends, Jesus communicates regularly, even when Pastor Tommy isn't actively seeking Him.

His voice dispels darkness and changes perspective.

Pastor Tommy references Exodus 33, where God spoke to Moses as a man speaks to his friend.

God's voice brings life and reveals the need for salvation, unlike the condemnation from the enemy.

There is no confusion in the voice of God.

God has shared eternal truth.

The Holy Spirit speaks the Word of God into the soul, rescuing with that Word.

Jesus Loves Me

A friend loves at all times (Proverbs 17:17).

God's love is unconditional, even when one is unlovable.

1 John 4:10: God loved us and sent His Son as propitiation for our sins.

Jesus proved His love by laying down His life for His friends (John 15:13).

If Jesus didn't love you for even a second, you would know it.

Jesus Protects Me

Jesus protects from worldly fears and the enemy's snares (Luke 12:4).

He is always present, like a brother who sticks close.

He puts a hedge and wall of love around.

Jesus Corrects Me

Faithful are the wounds of a friend (Proverbs 27:6).

Correction and chastening are signs of God's love (Hebrews 12:6).

A true friend will point out when you are going down the wrong path.

The Holy Ghost arrested Pastor Tommy's soul and revealed the reality of hell.

Jesus offers a better way and salvation.

Jesus Died for Me

Jesus left heaven and became flesh to pay the penalty for sin.

A search was made in heaven, on earth, and under the earth, and only Jesus was found worthy to go.

The angel announced the birth of a Savior in Bethlehem.

Jesus was born to die and become the greatest friend.

Story of a New Friend at the Airport

Pastor Tommy shares an anecdote about meeting a man at the airport who wanted to be his friend.

The man was outgoing, calling multiple people to share that he made a new friend.

He asked Pastor Tommy to play Uno and wanted to text him regularly.

Pastor Tommy reflects that God was sharing something with him about a person that didn't have another motive, he just wanted to be my friend.

How to Know Jesus as a Friend

Believe in Him

Faith and trust are essential.

Abraham was called the friend of God because he believed God (James 2:23).

John 3:16: Believe in Jesus to have everlasting life.

Obey Him

Jesus said, "Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you" (John 15:14).

Trust and obey.