17
Three days after Paul’s arrival, he called together the local Jewish leaders. He said to them, “Brothers, I was arrested in Jerusalem and handed over to the Roman government, even though I had done nothing against our people or the customs of our ancestors.
18
The Romans tried me and wanted to release me, because they found no cause for the death sentence.
19
But when the Jewish leaders protested the decision, I felt it necessary to appeal to Caesar, even though I had no desire to press charges against my own people.
20
I asked you to come here today so we could get acquainted and so I could explain to you that I am bound with this chain because I believe that the hope of Israel—the Messiah—has already come.”
21
They replied, “We have had no letters from Judea or reports against you from anyone who has come here.
22
But we want to hear what you believe, for the only thing we know about this movement is that it is denounced everywhere.”