The Road to Friendship in 2026:

Dec 28, 2025    Pastor Keith L. Garrett

Sermon Summary: This sermon explores the biblical call to authentic friendship as believers enter a new year. The pastor emphasizes that friendship is not merely a social nicety but a godly, God-honoring calling that reflects Christ's love to the world. Drawing from the story of Cain and Abel, the message examines how sin, fear, and avoidance create roadblocks on the road to friendship, while the Word of God, the Holy Spirit, community life, and thankfulness serve as bridges that enable genuine connection. The sermon challenges believers to represent Christ through friendship, recognizing that Jesus calls His followers "friends" when they obey His commands to love God and love others. The pastor emphasizes that being a friend requires the capacity to see value in others, to wait on the Holy Spirit's leading, and to maintain a posture of thankfulness even in difficult circumstances.