16. When we came to Rome, Paul was allowed to live alone. But a soldier stayed with him to guard him.
17. Three days later Paul sent for some of the most important Jews. When they came together, he said, “My brothers, I have done nothing against our people or against the customs of our fathers. But I was arrested in Jerusalem and handed over to the Romans.
18. They asked me many questions, but they could not find any reason why I should be put to death. So they wanted to let me go free.
19. But the Jews there did not want that. So I had to ask to come to Rome to have my trial before Caesar. That doesn’t mean I am accusing my people of doing anything wrong.
20. That is why I wanted to see you and talk with you. I am bound with this chain because I believe in the hope of Israel.”
21. The Jews answered Paul, “We have received no letters from Judea about you. None of our Jewish brothers who have traveled from there brought news about you or told us anything bad about you.
22. We want to hear your ideas. We know that people everywhere are speaking against this new group.”
23. Paul and the Jews chose a day for a meeting. On that day many more of these Jews met with Paul at his house. He spoke to them all day long, explaining God’s kingdom to them. He used the Law of Moses and the writings of the prophets to persuade them to believe in Jesus.
24. Some of the Jews believed what he said, but others did not believe.