Build the 5 Relationships You Really Needનમૂનો

Jesus developed five types of human relationships in his earthly life. This ecosystem of connection was key to his thriving. Even Jesus needed all these relationships because he was not only fully God but fully man, living out the perfect design for human life.

The closest of his human relationships was with a core of three men—Peter, James, and John. Jesus built his connection with them through proactive self-disclosure. He allowed them to see parts of him no other disciples saw, as in the event called the Transfiguration (see Matt. 17:1–9). The verb used was ‘metamorphoō:’ to “transfigure,” or“transform”—to make visible something internal. That’s how you build your core.

Peter, James, and John witnessed Jesus’ divinity and fullness that day. Jesus knew one day these three would be central in testifying to who he really was, so on this day he gave a glimpse of his glory in the past, present, and future of his Father’s kingdom.

Your core few are those who see and know you like no one else does. They are God’s design to provide you with a flesh and blood experience of unconditional love—or as close as you can humanly get! Human souls need to feel known to experience love. The extent to which you believe you’re known by someone is the extent to which you will be able to feel loved by that person. Your core knows the real you—so they’re in the best position to give you a vital sense of unconditional love. The commitment to love one another despite flaws and through pain and hardship is why your spouse is in your core if you are married. But core friendships can see you and love you like that too.

Core relationships are throughout Scripture in examples like Naomi and Ruth and King David and Jonathan. In 1 Samuel 18:1 it says that “Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself.” These men shared a trust and lifelong pact to stay loyal to a friendship they both honored until the end of their lives. Your core is built to model the kind of kinship and closeness of a God who invites you into that relationship with Him.

Name the 1–3 people in your core. Thank God for them and text them a thank you! Decide now what you can share with them to deepen your connection.