Acts 24:5-14

5For we have found this man to be a public menace and one who instigates dissension among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the [heretical] sect of the Nazarenes.

6He even tried to desecrate the temple, but we took him into custody [and we intended to judge him by our Law,

7but Lysias the commander came, and with great force took him out of our hands,

8and ordered his accusers to come before you.] By interrogating him yourself concerning all these matters you will be able to determine [the truth about] these things with which we charge him.”

9The Jews also joined in the attack, declaring and insisting that these things were so.

10When the governor nodded for him to speak, Paul answered, “Knowing that for many years you have been a judge over this nation, I make my defense cheerfully and with good courage.

11As you can easily verify, it has been no more than twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem to worship.

12Neither in the temple, nor in the synagogues, nor elsewhere in the city did they find me carrying on a discussion or disputing with anybody or causing a crowd to gather.

13Nor can they present evidence to you to prove what they now bring against me.

14But I confess this to you, that according to the Way, which they call a [divisive and heretical] sect, I do worship and serve the God of our fathers, [confidently] believing everything that is in accordance with the Law [of Moses] and that is written in the Prophets;