Study Desk

Oh, what a sorry cowboy I am. Who can set me free from this power that dominates my life and leads to eternal death?

Thanks to God that the answer is Jesus Christ. In summary, I want to follow God's code, but because of my human nature I am a slave to sin.

The Good Book says, "'As much as I am alive, every soul will bend the knee and every mouth shall pledge themselves to me,' says the Lord."

that I am a hand for God tasked with gathering y'all remnants. I bring you good news, not bad news.

I am recommending to y'all a cowgirl named Phoebe. She is instrumental in the church in Cenchreae.

They've put their necks on the line for me more than once. Every church filled with outsiders knows of them and how thankful I am for them both.

I, Tertius, am writing this for Paul. I send my greetings as well.

I know some of you are already saying, "But I am set free and can do anything I want." Yeah, you can. But just because you can doesn't mean you should. You are free and can do anything you want, but don't become a slave once again to sin.

I am a free cowboy. I have been personally chosen by Jesus Christ whom I have seen. I am responsible for you being a part of God's outfit here on earth and in heaven.

I'm not talking to a bunch of dummies. Y'all know what I am saying is true.

Am I saying that food sacrificed on the altar at the main church is the same as food sacrificed to idols? No! An idol is a stick or a rock or a demon, not God.

I do this, too. I try to respect everyone in every way. I'm not just looking out for myself. I am trying to do what is best for every individual I come into contact with so they too can be saved.

But I am a gunsel compared to those other cowboys that he chose. Why? Because I used to hunt cowboys down and kill 'em. Even though I now ride for Jesus, I ain't worthy to be called one of his cowboys.

It's only because of his grace that I know I really am a cowboy. And you know what? I didn't waste the grace. I ride harder and further, taking the outside in this big gathering of the lost and those who have strayed away. (But it's not really me riding. It's God's grace working through me that allows me to do what I do.)

Timothy might be stopping by soon. Make him feel at home because he's working for God as hard as I am.

Well, we both know it didn't work out that way. But I am wondering if you all think I make plans frivolously or without thought? Do y'all think I make promises and then act like folks who don't keep their word?

And God allowed that to happen. For that, I am greatly encouraged.Not only that, but we were also thrilled to see how happy y'all made Titus.

When I get there, I will show these people how much of a sissy I am . . . and they won't like it.

And when I do, I'm not talking like the Boss would talk. You see? I am a fool.

But if I'm going to brag, it's going to be about the things I am weak at.