25
Then someone told them, "The men you put in prison are standing in the temple courtyard. They're teaching the people."
26
Then the officer of the temple guards went with some of his men to bring back the apostles without using force. After all, the officer and his guards were afraid that the people would stone them to death for using force.
27
When they brought back the apostles, they made them stand in front of the council. The chief priest questioned them.
28
He said, "We gave you strict orders not to mention Jesus' name when you teach. Yet, you've filled Jerusalem with your teachings. You want to take revenge on us for putting that man to death."
29
Peter and the other apostles answered, "We must obey God rather than people.
30
You murdered Jesus by hanging him on a cross. But the God of our ancestors brought him back to life.
31
God used his power to give Jesus the highest position as leader and savior. He did this to lead the people of Israel to him, to change the way they think and act, and to forgive their sins.
32
We are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him."
33
When the men on the council heard this, they became furious and wanted to execute the apostles.
34
But a Pharisee named Gamaliel stood up. He was a highly respected expert in Moses' Teachings. He ordered that the apostles should be taken outside for a little while.
35
Then he said to the council, "Men of Israel, consider carefully what you do with these men.