All Articles For Bruinooge Kyle

Only Luke is with me. II Timothy 4:11 A previous article on Onesiphorus (April 1, 2021) laid out the dire circumstances that accompanied the apostle Paul during his final days. These circumstances were the backdrop of his final epistle, a second letter to Timothy who was laboring in Ephesus. Before Paul was to leave this life and join the throng of just men made perfect, he delivered some final requests and greetings to those who were near and dear to his heart. Onesiphorus often refreshed Paul toward the end of his life (II Tim. 1:16), but as Paul faced the...

The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain: but, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me. II Timothy 1:16-17 A plunge into the clear water of Lake Michigan on a hot, summer day. A cold glass of lemonade after working in the garden. A long, hot shower after a grueling day of work. Refreshment. You may relate to these illustrations, or ones similar, when you think of what brings you refreshment. We experience this in many different ways, but spiritual...

[Note: In our editors’ notes for the new volume year (Oct. 1, 2020), we neglected to mention that Mr. Bruinooge has joined the SB staff under this rubric. We apologize and welcome him as a regular writer.] Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants. Philippians 2:25 When we receive praise as Christians, our first reaction is often self-satisfaction. We are pleased that others are pleased with us. We need the constant reminder that all spiritual abilities and gifts are...

All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you, who is a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellowservant in the Lord. Colossians 4:7 As was stated in a previous article (Dec. 1, 2019), the effectiveness of the apostle Paul was aided by a network of individuals who were a support to him in the spread of the gospel. In addition to the equipping of Paul, God also equipped many other “behind-the-scenes” men and women who demonstrated courage, commitment, and faithfulness in establishing, developing, and maintaining the churches of the first century AD. Tychicus was a man who was given...

“Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.” Colossians 4:12 The apostle Paul is regarded as the greatest missionary of all time. His boldness, diligence, and courage are demonstrated by his ability through the power of God to establish churches in hostile cities under difficult circumstances. He was not alone, however. No great theologian or missionary ever is. There is always a support system—an individual or network of people who stand by their side—who are used...