18
who, when they had examined me, desired to set me free, because there was no cause of death in me.
19
But when the Jews spoke against it, I was constrained to appeal to Caesar, not that I had anything about which to accuse my nation.
20
For this cause therefore did I ask you to see and to speak with me. For because of the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain."
21
They said to him, "We neither received letters from Judea concerning you, nor did any of the brothers come here and report or speak any evil of you.
22
But we desire to hear of you what you think. For, as concerning this sect, it is known to us that everywhere it is spoken against."
23
When they had appointed him a day, they came to him into his lodging in great number. He explained to them, testifying about the kingdom of God, and persuading them concerning Jesus, both from the law of Moses and from the prophets, from morning until evening.
24
Some believed the things which were spoken, and some disbelieved.
25
When they didn't agree among themselves, they departed after Paul had spoken one word, "The Holy Spirit spoke well through Isaiah, the prophet, to our fathers,
26
saying, 'Go to this people, and say, In hearing, you will hear, and will in no way understand. In seeing, you will see, and will in no way perceive.
27
For this people's heart has grown callous. Their ears are dull of hearing. Their eyes they have closed. Lest they should see with their eyes, Hear with their ears, Understand with their heart, Would turn again, And I would heal them.'
28
"Be it known therefore to you, that the salvation of God is sent to the Gentiles. They will also hear."