In apostle through Jesus Christ. Paul’s salutation begins by highlighting the difference between human designation and a divine choice.

The disciples had assembled together in Jerusalem to decide on Matthias replacing Judas the traitor (act 1.26).

Contrary to their will the Lord Jesus chose Paul to replace him, making him His Servant.

Although he was persecuted, and his authority questions, the apostle had the courage, security, and comfort to know that he did not exercise the ministry through personal initiative, but through a clear and exclusive choice made by God (acts 9.17).