Jesus chose twelve disciples to represent the twelve tribes of Israel, showing that He was establishing God's renewed covenant people and laying the foundation for His Church. After spending the night in prayer, Jesus selected the twelve to be His closest followers, to preach the gospel, cast out demons, and later become witnesses of His resurrection (Luke 6:12–16; Mark 3:13–19, KJV). The number twelve symbolized God's people throughout Scripture, just as Israel had twelve tribes. Jesus also promised His apostles, "Ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel" (Matthew 19:28, KJV). Through these ordinary men, God spread the message of salvation throughout the world, demonstrating that His power works through those who faithfully follow Him.