10
The governor motioned for Paul to speak. Paul said, "I know that you have been a judge over this nation for quite a few years. So I am glad to stand up for myself.
11
About 12 days ago I went up to Jerusalem to worship. You can easily check on this.
12
Those bringing charges against me did not find me arguing with anyone at the temple. I wasn't stirring up a crowd in the synagogues or anywhere else in the city.
13
They can't prove to you any of the charges they are making against me.
14
"It is true that I worship the God of our people. I am a follower of the Way of Jesus. Those bringing charges against me call it a cult. I believe everything that agrees with the Law. I believe everything written in the Prophets.
15
I have the same hope in God that these men have. I believe that both the godly and the ungodly will rise from the dead.
16
So I always try not to do anything wrong in the eyes of God and man.
17
"I was away for several years. Then I came to Jerusalem to bring my people gifts for those who were poor. I also came to offer sacrifices.
18
They found me doing this in the temple courtyard. I had already been made pure and clean in the usual way. There was no crowd with me. I didn't stir up any trouble.
19
"But there are some other Jews who should be here in front of you. They are from Asia Minor. They should bring charges if they have anything against me.
20
Let the Jews who are here tell you what crime I am guilty of. After all, I was put on trial by the Sanhedrin.
21
Perhaps they blame me for what I said when I was on trial. I shouted, 'I believe that people will rise from the dead. That is why I am on trial here today.' "