In this episode of the Be The Church Podcast, Luke Bilberry sits down with Joel Wayne and John VanDyke for a deeply honest conversation about biblical friendship—and why it may be one of the most underutilized weapons God has given the church.

Together, they unpack how real, Christ-centered friendships are forged through vulnerability, trust, sacrifice, and shared mission—not convenience or proximity. From the complexity of leading together in ministry to the courage it takes to be fully known, this conversation explores how guardedness, busyness, and fear quietly erode relationships—and how God uses authentic friendship to sharpen leaders, protect souls, and advance His kingdom.

Whether you’re a pastor, elder, ministry leader, or simply longing for deeper relationships, this conversation will call you to invest intentionally, love courageously, and pick up the “weapon” of biblical friendship.

What you’ll learn:

• Why biblical friendship is essential—not optional—for spiritual leadership
• How vulnerability and trust are forged over time through shared sacrifice
• Why guardedness and busyness are enemies of real community
• How friendship can thrive even in complex, layered leadership relationships
• Why priorities are revealed by what you’re willing to displace
• How God uses deep friendship to sharpen leaders and advance the Kingdom

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