HYMN: WHAT A FRIEND WE HAVE IN JESUS

(Message by Tanny Keng)

What a friend we have in Jesus

Hymn writer (lyrics): Joseph Scriven Music composer: C.C. Converse Notes This hymn was derived from a poem written by Irish poet Scriven entitled Pray Without Ceasing. It was renamed to its current title and set to music by Charles Converse, a U.S. attorney who also composed songs of worship.

Biblical Friendships a) The Bible lists several friendships between only men, only women, and a combination of both. These friendships, many times, involved just two people. Relationships, however, between three, four or even more can be found within the word of God. b) The Bible delineates, in the Old Testament, friendships between Lot and Abraham (Genesis 14:14 - 16), between Naomi and Ruth (Ruth 1:16 - 17), the prophet Samuel and King Saul (1Samuel 15:35), Jonathan (the son of King Saul) and King David (1Samuel 18:1 - 4; 23:16 - 18; 2Samuel 1:17 - 27, etc.), Job and his three friends (Job 2:11 - 13), Daniel and his three companions (Daniel 2:49) and still others. Interestingly, in addition to his friendship with Jonathan, the Bible mentions King David's friendships with Abiathar (1Samuel 22:23), Nahash (2Samuel 10:2), Hiram the King of Tyre (1Kings 5:1), Hushai (2Samuel 15:32 - 37, etc.) and Ittai (2Samuel 15:19 - 21). c) In the New Testament we discover friendships between Mary, Martha, Lazarus and Jesus (John 11, Luke 10), Paul, Aquila and Priscilla (Romans 16:3 - 4), Theophilus and the gospel writer Luke (Acts 1:1), Paul, Epaphroditus and fellow-evangelist Timothy (Philippians 2:19, 20) and Paul with his nephew (Acts 23:16). Jesus, at the end of his earthly ministry, did not consider his disciples servants or slaves, but true friends (Matthew 26:56, 58).

The End ...