15. I have the same hope in God that these men have. I believe that both the godly and the ungodly will rise from the dead.
16. So I always try not to do anything wrong in the eyes of God and man.
17. "I was away for several years. Then I came to Jerusalem to bring my people gifts for those who were poor. I also came to offer sacrifices.
18. They found me doing this in the temple courtyard. I had already been made pure and clean in the usual way. There was no crowd with me. I didn't stir up any trouble.
19. "But there are some other Jews who should be here in front of you. They are from Asia Minor. They should bring charges if they have anything against me.
20. Let the Jews who are here tell you what crime I am guilty of. After all, I was put on trial by the Sanhedrin.
21. Perhaps they blame me for what I said when I was on trial. I shouted, 'I believe that people will rise from the dead. That is why I am on trial here today.' "
22. Felix knew all about the Way of Jesus. So he put off the trial for the time being. "Lysias the commanding officer will come," he said. "Then I will decide your case."
23. He ordered the commander to keep Paul under guard. He told him to give Paul some freedom. He also told him to allow Paul's friends to take care of his needs.
24. Several days later Felix came with his wife Drusilla. She was a Jew. Felix sent for Paul and listened to him speak about faith in Christ Jesus.
25. Paul talked about how to live right. He talked about how people should control themselves. He also talked about the time when God will judge everyone. Then Felix became afraid. "That's enough for now!" he said. "You may leave. When I find the time, I will send for you."
26. He was hoping that Paul would offer him some money to let him go. So he often sent for Paul and talked with him.