This episode of the 10:10 Thrive Podcast continues the “10:10 with Jesus: A Deeper Look” series by focusing on what the Bible teaches us about Jesus as a friend. The Gospels reveal that Jesus did not merely function as a distant teacher but cultivated genuine, affectionate friendships marked by trust, support, and shared life. His close relationships with Lazarus, Mary, and Martha of Bethany demonstrate His tender compassion, willingness to grieve alongside His friends, and acceptance of devotion and hospitality. Tradition also portrays these siblings as early evangelists and symbols of faith and hope, further underscoring the depth of their relationship with Jesus.

The episode also explores Jesus’ friendships with His disciples, including Peter, John, and James, who formed part of His inner circle and shared intimate moments with Him. Despite Peter’s impulsiveness and failures, Jesus restored and trusted him, while John, “the disciple whom Jesus loved,” experienced profound closeness with the Savior, and James shared pivotal ministry moments. The story of Jesus’ acceptance of Zacchaeus, a despised tax collector, further illustrates Jesus’ radical inclusivity, demonstrating that His friendship is extended even to societal outcasts, offering transformation and grace to those who encounter Him.

These friendships reveal the character of Jesus as patient, compassionate, restoring, and radically loving, calling us to respond by cultivating a personal, faithful friendship with Him. They challenge us to extend the same gracious friendship to others, reflecting Jesus’ love to a world in need. The episode closes with the encouragement that Jesus, our Savior and Friend, desires to walk with us in every season, transforming our hearts and giving us hope, purpose, and restoration as we embrace His companionship in our daily lives.