Jesus is most certainly a friend that sticks closer than a brother. (Proverbs 18:24). This friendship however comes with a price tag—that is, we must also obey him (John 15:14,15). We do not deserve this friendship; yet Christ has chosen to become our friend. As Dietrich Bonhoeffer pointed out so many years ago, this grace (unmerited favor) does not come cheaply. It costs. It cost Christ’s life; it cost our loyal obedience.
Protestants, of the Reformation sort, insist that our friendship with Christ—that relationship, is entirely by faith; that there are no conditions. Well, yes and no. Yes, if such faith has content. No, if it is without content that includes works of charity and obedience. Even the simplest faith goes beyond a cursory belief that Jesus is Lord, and as such must be obeyed. Otherwise, Old Scratch himself would qualify (James 2:14-25).
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