16
Because of this, I always try to maintain a clear conscience before God and all people.
17
“After several years away, I returned to Jerusalem with money to aid my people and to offer sacrifices to God.
18
My accusers saw me in the Temple as I was completing a purification ceremony. There was no crowd around me and no rioting.
19
But some Jews from the province of Asia were there—and they ought to be here to bring charges if they have anything against me!
20
Ask these men here what crime the Jewish high council found me guilty of,
21
except for the one time I shouted out, ‘I am on trial before you today because I believe in the resurrection of the dead!’”
22
At that point Felix, who was quite familiar with the Way, adjourned the hearing and said, “Wait until Lysias, the garrison commander, arrives. Then I will decide the case.”
23
He ordered an officer to keep Paul in custody but to give him some freedom and allow his friends to visit him and take care of his needs.
24
A few days later Felix came back with his wife, Drusilla, who was Jewish. Sending for Paul, they listened as he told them about faith in Christ Jesus.
25
As he reasoned with them about righteousness and self-control and the coming day of judgment, Felix became frightened. “Go away for now,” he replied. “When it is more convenient, I’ll call for you again.”
26
He also hoped that Paul would bribe him, so he sent for him quite often and talked with him.