3:14 he appointed twelve. In such a context, the significance of the number “twelve” could hardly be missed. Jesus was setting up the constitution of the renewed Israel (Matt. 19:28). See “The Apostles” at Acts 1:26.

that they might be with him. A signal point of the uniqueness of the Twelve is the time they spend with the earthly Jesus, a time of preparation.

preach. Again (1:14, 17) the priority is a preaching mission coupled with exorcism. The time of preparation has a markedly practical emphasis.