14. I was moving ahead in my Jewish way of life. I went beyond many Jews who were my own age. I held firmly to the teachings passed down by my people.
15. But God set me apart from the time I was born. He showed me his grace by appointing me. He was pleased
16. to show his Son in my life. He wanted me to preach about Jesus among those who aren't Jews. When God appointed me, I didn't talk to anyone.
17. I didn't go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was. Instead, I went at once into Arabia. Later I returned to Damascus.
18. Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem. I went there to get to know Peter. I stayed with him for 15 days.