1 Since [^[a]as is well known] many have undertaken to put in order and draw up a [^[b]thorough] narrative of the surely established deeds which have been accomplished and fulfilled ^[c] in and among us,

² Exactly as they were handed down to us by those who from the [^[d]official] beginning [of Jesus’ ministry] were eyewitnesses and ministers of the Word [that is, of ^[e]the doctrine concerning the attainment through Christ of salvation in the kingdom of God],

³ It seemed good and desirable to me, [and so I have determined] also after ^[f]having searched out diligently and followed all things closely and traced accurately the course from the highest to the minutest detail from the very first, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus,^(A)

1 In the former account [which I prepared], O Theophilus, I made [a continuous report] dealing with all the things which Jesus began to do and to teach^(A)

² Until the day when He ascended, after He through the Holy Spirit had instructed and commanded the apostles (special messengers) whom He had chosen.

³ To them also He showed Himself alive after His passion (His suffering in the garden and on the cross) by [a series of] many convincing demonstrations [unquestionable evidences and infallible proofs], appearing to them during forty days and talking [to them] about the things of the kingdom of God.