16
When we got to Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself. But a soldier guarded him.
17
Three days later Paul called a meeting of the Jewish leaders. So they came. Paul said to them, "My brothers, I have done nothing against our people. I have also done nothing against what our people of long ago practiced. But I was arrested in Jerusalem. I was handed over to the Romans.
18
"They questioned me. And they wanted to let me go. They saw I wasn't guilty of any crime worthy of death.
19
But the Jews objected. So I had to make an appeal to Caesar. "It wasn't that I had anything against my own people.
20
I share Israel's hope. That is why I am held with this chain. So I have asked to see you and talk with you."