I have called you friends. Another theme is pounded home as well - love. On and on it goes. More accurately, the love of which the Lord speaks is a characteristic, not of what sweethearts have, but of what genuinely good friends enjoy. Think of a few.
Friends care about each other's welfare.
That makes sense. If you are my friend, I want the best for you. I want people to think well of you. I want no harm to come to you. In fact, deep friendships are often forged in the midst of common suffering.