Jesus chose twelve men and called them apostles. {\cf2\super [45]} Jesus wanted these twelve men to be with him, and he wanted to send them to other places to tell people \{God’s message\}.
The apostles {\cf2\super [79]} \{that Jesus sent out\} came back to Jesus. They gathered around Jesus and told him about all the things they did and taught.
You did not choose me; I chose you. And I gave you this work: to go and make fruit. I want this fruit to continue \{in your life\}. Then the Father will give you anything you ask for in my name.
But the Holy Spirit {\cf2\super [5]} will come to you. Then you will receive power. You will be my witnesses—\{you will tell people about me\}. First, you will tell people in Jerusalem. Then you will tell people in all of Judea, in Samaria, and in every part of the world.”
Greetings from Paul, an apostle. {\cf2\super [1]} I was chosen to be an apostle, but not by any group of people. My authority did not come from other people. No! It was Jesus Christ and God the Father who made me an apostle. God is the One who raised Jesus from death.