Acts 24:1-16 ▼

1 Five days later Ananias the high priest came down with some elders and a lawyer named Tertullus. These men presented their case against Paul to the governor.

2 When Paul was called in, Tertullus began to accuse him and said, “We enjoy great peace because of you, and reforms are taking place for the benefit of this nation because of your foresight.

3 We acknowledge this in every way and everywhere, most excellent Felix, with utmost gratitude.

4 But, so that I will not burden you any further, I request that you would be kind enough to give us a brief hearing.

5 For we have found this man to be a plague, an agitator among all the Jews throughout the Roman world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes.

6 He even tried to desecrate the temple, and so we apprehended him. By examining him yourself you will be able to discern the truth about these charges we are bringing against him.”

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9 The Jews also joined in the attack, alleging that these things were true.

10 When the governor motioned for him to speak, Paul replied, “Because I know you have been a judge of this nation for many years, I am glad to offer my defense in what concerns me.

11 You can verify for yourself that it is no more than twelve days since I went up to worship in Jerusalem.

12 They didn’t find me arguing with anyone or causing a disturbance among the crowd, either in the temple or in the synagogues or anywhere in the city.

13 Neither can they prove the charges they are now making against me.

14 But I admit this to you: I worship the God of my ancestors according to the Way, which they call a sect, believing everything that is in accordance with the law and written in the prophets.

15 I have a hope in God, which these men themselves also accept, that there will be a resurrection, both of the righteous and the unrighteous.

16 I always strive to have a clear conscience toward God and men.