16
Indeed, it is because of this that I make a point of always having a clear conscience in the sight of both God and man.
17
"After an absence of several years, I came to Yerushalayim to bring a charitable gift to my nation and to offer sacrifices.
18
It was in connection with the latter that they found me in the Temple. I had been ceremonially purified, I was not with a crowd, and I was not causing a disturbance.
19
But some Jews from the province of Asia - they ought to be here before you to make a charge if they have anything against me!
20
Or else, let these men themselves say what crime they found me guilty of when I stood in front of the Sanhedrin,
21
other than this one thing which I shouted out when I was standing among them: 'I am on trial before you today because I believe in the resurrection of the dead!'"
22
But Felix, who had rather detailed knowledge of things connected with the Way, put them off, saying, "When Lysias the commander comes down, I will decide your case."
23
He ordered the captain to keep Sha'ul in custody, but to let him have considerable liberty and not prevent any of his friends from taking care of his needs.
24
After some days, Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish. He sent for Sha'ul and listened to him as he spoke about trusting in the Messiah Yeshua.
25
But when Sha'ul began to discuss righteousness, self-control and the coming Judgment, Felix became frightened and said, "For the time being, go away! I will send for you when I get a chance."
26
At the same time, he hoped that Sha'ul would offer him a bribe; so he sent for him rather often and kept talking with him.