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 fathers, I was taken prisoner in Jerusalem and handed over to the Romans.
18They examined me and wanted to release me, because there was no basis for a death sentence against me.
19But when the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar, even though I have no charge to bring against my nation.
20So for this reason I have called to see you and speak with you. It is because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain.”
21The leaders replied, “We have not received any letters about you from Judea, nor have any of the brothers from there reported or even mentioned anything bad about you.
22But we consider your views worth hearing, because we know that people everywhere are speaking against this sect.”