In the biblical context, the concept of a false friend is one who betrays trust, acts deceitfully, or fails to provide genuine support and loyalty. The Scriptures provide numerous examples and warnings about such individuals, emphasizing the importance of discernment and the value of true friendship.

Biblical Examples:

1. Judas Iscariot: Perhaps the most infamous example of a false friend in the Bible is Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ. Despite being in close fellowship with Jesus, Judas betrayed Him for thirty pieces of silver. In Matthew 26:48-50 , Judas approaches Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane and betrays Him with a kiss, a gesture typically associated with friendship: "Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: 'The one I kiss is the man; arrest Him.' Going directly to Jesus, he said, 'Greetings, Rabbi,' and kissed Him. 'Friend,' Jesus replied, 'do what you came for.'"

2. Ahithophel: In the Old Testament, Ahithophel was a counselor to King David but later sided with Absalom during his rebellion against David. This act of betrayal is highlighted in 2 Samuel 15:31 : "Now someone told David, 'Ahithophel is among the conspirators with Absalom.' So David prayed, 'O LORD, please turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness.'"

3. Delilah: Although not a friend in the traditional sense, Delilah's relationship with Samson in Judges 16 serves as a cautionary tale of deceit and betrayal. Delilah feigned affection for Samson but ultimately betrayed him to the Philistines for financial gain, leading to his downfall.

Characteristics of a False Friend:

1. Deceit and Betrayal: A false friend often uses deception to achieve personal gain, as seen in the actions of Judas and Delilah. Proverbs 27:6 states, "The wounds of a friend are faithful, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful," highlighting the contrast between genuine and false intentions.

2. Self-Interest: False friends prioritize their own interests over loyalty and integrity. Proverbs 19:4 observes, "Wealth attracts many friends, but a poor man is deserted by his friend," indicating that some friendships are based on material gain rather than true companionship.

3. Unreliability: A false friend is often unreliable and fails to provide support in times of need. Proverbs 25:19 warns, "Like a broken tooth or a foot out of joint is confidence in a faithless man in time of trouble."

Warnings and Exhortations:

The Bible provides clear warnings against associating with false friends and encourages believers to seek and cultivate genuine, godly relationships. Psalm 41:9 laments the pain of betrayal: "Even my close friend, whom I trusted, he who shared my bread, has lifted up his heel against me." This verse underscores the deep hurt caused by betrayal from someone considered a friend.

In contrast, Proverbs 17:17 extols the virtues of true friendship: "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." This verse highlights the steadfastness and loyalty that characterize a true friend, in stark contrast to the false friend.

Discernment and Wisdom:

Believers are called to exercise discernment in their relationships, seeking wisdom from God to identify and avoid false friends. James 1:5 encourages believers to seek divine wisdom: "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him." Through prayer and reliance on Scripture, Christians can cultivate relationships that reflect the love and faithfulness of Christ.