In this episode of the Pristine Grace Podcast, Brandan Kraft reflects on the Apostle Paul's final days in a Roman dungeon and the painful loneliness revealed in 2 Timothy 4:9–18. Forsaken by many he once trusted, abandoned by Demas, opposed by Alexander, and left standing alone at his trial, Paul nevertheless testifies that the Lord stood with him and strengthened him. Brandan connects Paul's experience to the realities of modern ministry and Christian life, where disappointment, betrayal, and isolation often accompany faithful service. Drawing from Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, he explores God's design for friendship and fellowship, reminding listeners that believers were never meant to walk alone.
0:00 Introduction - Have You Ever Felt Alone?
2:17 Show and Tell - Henry Mahan's Books
7:41 Paul's Loneliness in Prison (2 Timothy 4:9-18)
15:00 The Disappointment of Betrayal
18:00 My Friends and Gospel Companions
21:15 What Scripture Says About Friendship
23:00 Jesus - The Ultimate Friend (John 15)
26:15 The Cost of Christ's Friendship
29:00 Redemption Through His Blood
31:05 What Happens Without Friends (Ecclesiastes 4)
33:10 Dealing With Betrayal and Hurt
38:00 What Makes a Good Friend
40:00 For Those Who Feel Isolated
42:00 For Those Who Have Friends
43:00 Closing - You Have the Greatest Friend