17 Three days later, Paul called the Jewish leaders together. When they gathered, he said, "Brothers, although I have done nothing against our people or the customs of our ancestors, I'm a prisoner from Jerusalem. They handed me over to the Romans,
18
who intended to release me after they examined me, because they couldn't find any reason for putting me to death.
19
When the Jews objected, I was forced to appeal to Caesar. Don't think I appealed to Caesar because I had any reason to bring charges against my nation.
20
This is why I asked to see you and speak with you: it's because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain."
21
They responded, "We haven't received any letters about you from Judea, nor have any of our brothers come and reported or said anything bad about you.
22
But we think it's important to hear what you think, for we know that people everywhere are speaking against this faction."