5
"We've found this man time and again disturbing the peace, stirring up riots against Jews all over the world, the ringleader of a seditious sect called Nazarenes.
6
He's a real bad apple, I must say. We caught him trying to defile our holy Temple and arrested him.
8
You'll be able to verify all these accusations when you examine him yourself."
9
The Jews joined in: "Hear, hear! That's right!"
10
The governor motioned to Paul that it was now his turn. Paul said, "I count myself fortunate to be defending myself before you, Governor, knowing how fair-minded you've been in judging us all these years.
11
I've been back in the country only twelve days - you can check out these dates easily enough. I came with the express purpose of worshiping in Jerusalem on Pentecost, and I've been minding my own business the whole time.
12
Nobody can say they saw me arguing in the Temple or working up a crowd in the streets.
13
Not one of their charges can be backed up with evidence or witnesses.
14
"But I do freely admit this: In regard to the Way, which they malign as a dead-end street, I serve and worship the very same God served and worshiped by all our ancestors and embrace everything written in all our Scriptures.
15
And I admit to living in hopeful anticipation that God will raise the dead, both the good and the bad. If that's my crime, my accusers are just as guilty as I am.