Acts 28:17-28

17After three days he called together the leaders of the Jews. When they had gathered he said to them, “Brothers, although I have done nothing against our people or the customs of our ancestors, I was delivered as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.

18After they examined me, they wanted to release me, since there was no reason for the death penalty in my case.

19Because the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar; even though I had no charge to bring against my people.

20For this reason I’ve asked to see you and speak to you. In fact, it is for the hope of Israel that I’m wearing this chain.”

21Then they said to him, “We haven’t received any letters about you from Judea. None of the brothers has come and reported or spoken anything evil about you.

22But we want to hear what your views are, since we know that people everywhere are speaking against this sect.”

23After arranging a day with him, many came to him at his lodging. From dawn to dusk he expounded and testified about the kingdom of God. He tried to persuade them about Jesus from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets.

24Some were persuaded by what he said, but others did not believe.

25Disagreeing among themselves, they began to leave after Paul made one statement: “The Holy Spirit was right in saying to your ancestors through the prophet Isaiah

26when he said, Go to these people and say: You will always be listening, but never understanding; and you will always be looking, but never perceiving.

27For the hearts of these people have grown callous, their ears are hard of hearing, and they have shut their eyes; otherwise they might see with their eyes and hear with their ears, understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them.

28Therefore, let it be known to you that this salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will listen.”