The Message Bible MSG
New International Version NIV
18 but it was three years before I went up to Jerusalem to compare stories with Peter. I was there only fifteen days - but what days they were!
18
Then after three years, I went up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Cephas and stayed with him fifteen days.
19 Except for our Master's brother James, I saw no other apostles.
19
I saw none of the other apostles—only James, the Lord’s brother.
20 (I'm telling you the absolute truth in this.)
20
I assure you before God that what I am writing you is no lie.
21 Then I began my ministry in the regions of Syria and Cilicia.
21
Then I went to Syria and Cilicia.
22 After all that time and activity I was still unknown by face among the Christian churches in Judea.
22
I was personally unknown to the churches of Judea that are in Christ.
23 There was only this report: "That man who once persecuted us is now preaching the very message he used to try to destroy."
23
They only heard the report: “The man who formerly persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.”
24 Their response was to recognize and worship God because of me!
24
And they praised God because of me.
Published by permission. Originally published by NavPress in English as THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language copyright 2002 by Eugene Peterson. All rights reserved.
Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.