1Five days later, the high priest Ananias came down with some elders and a lawyer named Tertullus. They presented their charges against Paul to the governor.
2When he was called, Tertullus began his accusation, saying, "Because of you, we experience great peace, and this nation is improving because of your foresight.
3We accept this in every way and in every place, most excellent Felix, with complete thankfulness.
4But, so I don't delay you, I ask you to be patient with us and listen to a few words.
5For we have found this man to be a troublemaker, someone who stirs up riots among all the Jews throughout the world, and a leader of the Nazarene sect.
6He even tried to defile the temple, and we arrested him.
8If you question him yourself, you can find out all these things we are accusing him of."
9The Jews also joined in the attack, confirming that these things were true.
10When the governor signaled for him to speak, Paul replied, "Since I know that you have been a judge over this nation for many years, I am happy to make my defense.
11You can easily confirm that it has been no more than twelve days since I went to Jerusalem to worship.
12They didn't find me arguing with anyone in the temple or stirring up a crowd, either in the synagogues or in the city.
13Nor can they prove to you the things they are now accusing me of.
14But I do confess this to you: I worship the God of our ancestors according to the Way, which they call a sect. I believe everything written in the Law and the Prophets.
15I have hope in God, just as these men themselves do, that there will be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous.
16Because of this, I always strive to have a clear conscience toward God and toward people.
17Now, after several years, I came to bring gifts for the needy of my nation and offerings.
18Among whom certain Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, not with a mob, nor causing any disturbance.
19They should be here in front of you right now to accuse me, if they have anything against me.
20Otherwise, let these men here state what wrong they found in me when I stood before the Council,
21unless it is about this one thing I shouted while standing among them: ‘I am being judged by you today concerning the resurrection of the dead!’”
22But Felix, who had a more accurate understanding of the Way, postponed their hearing. He said, "When Lysias, the commanding officer, arrives, I will decide your case."
23He ordered the centurion to keep Paul in custody but to allow him some freedom, and not to prevent any of his friends from taking care of him or visiting him.
24After several days, Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was a Jew, and sent for Paul to hear him speak about faith in Christ Jesus.
25As Paul talked about righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment, Felix became terrified and answered, “That’s enough for now. You can go. When I find it convenient, I will call for you again.”
26At the same time, Felix also hoped that Paul would offer him money to be released. So, he sent for him more often and talked with him.
27But when two years had passed, Porcius Festus took Felix’s place. Wanting to gain favor with the Jews, Felix left Paul in prison.