Friendships are good. Some friendships are better than others. And, of course, there are best friends. Not everyone has one. Not everyone can be one. But we can all work toward better friendships. This sermon will look at Jesus's relationship with his disciples and principles of friendship he demonstrated with his inner circle of three (Peter, James, and John). Moreover, it will warn against threats to friendship. In the end, the message will push you toward better friendships.

Jesus led with compassion and humility. He led with fidelity to God and in the face of opposition. His leadership excited crowds, drew disciples, and enraged religious leaders. As he approached Jerusalem, Jesus led a little parade into the big city for Passover. He rode on a horse, His actions caught people's notice and eventually cost him his life. This is Jesus: merciful Son of David, Humble King of the Jews, Crucified Savior, and Risen Lord. His life and leadership compels us to follow him.

Do everything for Christ includes family life. This is Paul's next topic in Colossians. He makes use of a household code, but turns it on its head by addressing society's "lower" members first: wives, children, and slaves. He calls them to obedience, as well as husbands, fathers, and masters. Household codes require cultural translation. Ultimately, they are less rigid rules for family power dynamics than case studies in how close relationships work. The general rule is that we should elevate those around us.

Paul takes a positive turn. After warning his readers to refuse religion, he focuses them again on Jesus. Using two similar commands -- set your mind on/think -- he encourages a glorious mindset. Jesus should be the center of our thoughts. Setting our mind on his death, resurrection, rule, and return will keep our minds from self-centered and self-destructed thoughts. Mindset matters.

Have you ever run into really religious people who come across as superior? Have you ever been that religious person? What is it about the word religion that makes us cringe? How do you respond when people call Christianity a religion? Well, if you read Colossians, you realize the apostle Paul was not a fan of religion. He undercuts the religious impulses infecting the Colossians. He wants a relationship with Jesus Christ as the focal point of the church, not a bunch of rules.