From Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ--- To those who through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ have been given a faith as precious as ours:

After a long debate Peter stood up and said, "My friends, you know that a long time ago God chose me from among you to preach the Good News to the Gentiles, so that they could hear and believe.

He made no difference between us and them; he forgave their sins because they believed.

"Let us praise the Lord, the God of Israel! He has come to the help of his people and has set them free.

Our God is merciful and tender. He will cause the bright dawn of salvation to rise on us

which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples:

A light to reveal your will to the Gentiles and bring glory to your people Israel."

They are the people I made for myself, and they will sing my praises!"

So also will be the word that I speak--- it will not fail to do what I plan for it; it will do everything I send it to do.

Cypress trees will grow where now there are briers; myrtle trees will come up in place of thorns. This will be a sign that will last forever, a reminder of what I, the LORD, have done."

Through him God gave me the privilege of being an apostle for the sake of Christ, in order to lead people of all nations to believe and obey.

For all things were created by him, and all things exist through him and for him. To God be the glory forever! Amen.

But you are the chosen race, the King's priests, the holy nation, God's own people, chosen to proclaim the wonderful acts of God, who called you out of darkness into his own marvelous light.

At one time you were not God's people, but now you are his people; at one time you did not know God's mercy, but now you have received his mercy.