1. FIVE DAYS later, the high priest Ananias came down [from Jerusalem to Caesarea] with some elders and a certain forensic advocate Tertullus [acting as spokesman and counsel]. They presented to the governor their evidence against Paul.
2. And when he was called, Tertullus began the complaint [against him] by saying: Since through you we obtain and enjoy much peace, and since by your foresight and provision wonderful reforms (amendments and improvements) are introduced and effected on behalf of this nation,
3. In every way and in every place, most excellent Felix, we accept and acknowledge this with deep appreciation and with all gratitude.
4. But not to hinder or detain you too long, I beg you in your clemency and courtesy and kindness to grant us a brief and concise hearing.
5. For we have found this man a perfect pest (a real plague), an agitator and source of disturbance to all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the [heretical, division-producing] sect of the Nazarenes.
6. He also [even] tried to desecrate and defile the temple, but we laid hands on him and would have sentenced him by our Law,
7. But the commandant Lysias came and took him from us with violence and force,
8. And ordered his accusers to present themselves to you. By examining and cross-questioning him yourself, you will be able to ascertain the truth from him about all these things with which we charge him.
9. The Jews also agreed and joined in the accusation, declaring that all these things were exactly so.
10. And when the governor had beckoned to Paul to speak, he answered: Because I know that for many years you have been a judge over this nation, I find it easier to make my defense and do it cheerfully and with good courage.
11. As you can readily verify, it is not more than twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem to worship;
12. And neither in the temple nor in the synagogues nor in the city did they find me disputing with anybody or bringing together a seditious crowd.