Synopsis "What Does the Bible Say about Friendship"
What does the Bible say about Friendship makes two extraordinary claims: that our life's ultimate goal is friendship with God and that our own personal friendships provide the road map. Friendship with God is a gift of Holy Wisdom (Wis 7:27). God speaks to Moses face to face as one speaks to a friend (Exod 33:11). And most striking of all these biblical examples, Jesus calls his own disciples, "friends" (John 15:15). Tracing the theme of friendship in the Scriptures, we will explore our own relationships with our family and friends to see how they have helped to pave the way for our becoming friends of God. The series What Does the Bible Say About ...? examines Biblical teaching in non-technical language in a style accessible to all, while taking into account current scholarship, and relating the biblical message to challenges of today's church and society. Rather than commenting on the content of any specific book, this new series examines topics of interest in a cross-reading of the Bible, both Old and New Testament, presenting a wide-angle view of what Sacred Scripture really says. "Written in a clear and attractive style, this small volume makes for fine spiritual reading or may be a helpful resource for group Bible study." Donald Senior, CP The Bible Today "I thoroughly enjoyed reading about friendship in a way that begins with lived experience and then delves into how God's word addresses the needs and realities of these fundamental relationships. Along the way, there is a smattering of philosophy and literary references, with plenty to turn the task of reading into a work of thoughtful reflection. Easy to read, with plenty to stir the mind and heart." Catherine Upchurch, General Editor Little Rock Catholic Study Bible Director, Little Rock Scripture Study "This book leads the reader from the various kinds of friendship that make life meaningful, to that friendship that is the meaning of life - namely, friendship with God." Dianne Bergant, CSA Professor Emerita of Old Testament Studies Catholic Theological Union, Chicago "Dr. Brink encourages us to reflect on the friends in our families, those others who share our lives, and even with our own deep selves. The ultimate goal is friendship with God. Small study-groups will appreciate the discussion prompts at the end of each chapter." Annette Bourland Huizenga Dean of the Seminary and Associate Professor of New Testament Studies University of Dubuque Theological Seminary
