²⁵ Then Paul said, I am not off my head, most noble Festus, but my words are true and wise.

²⁶ Claudius Lysias, to the most noble ruler, Felix, peace be with you.

³ In all things and in all places we are conscious of our great debt to you, most noble Felix.

³ It seemed good to me, having made observation, with great care, of the direction of events in their order, to put the facts in writing for you, most noble Theophilus;

⁴⁹ And this was the answer of Jesus: I have not an evil spirit; but I give honour to my Father and you do not give honour to me.

⁹ Keeping to the true word of the teaching, so that he may be able to give comfort by right teaching and overcome the arguments of the doubters.

⁷ In all things see that you are an example of good works; holy in your teaching, serious in behaviour,

⁸ Saying true and right words, against which no protest may be made, so that he who is not on our side may be put to shame, unable to say any evil of us.

²¹ This is God's purpose for you: because Jesus himself underwent punishment for you, giving you an example, so that you might go in his footsteps:

²² Who did no evil, and there was no deceit in his mouth:

²³ To sharp words he gave no sharp answer; when he was undergoing pain, no angry word came from his lips; but he put himself into the hands of the judge of righteousness:

⁹ Not giving back evil for evil, or curse for curse, but in place of cursing, blessing; because this is the purpose of God for you that you may have a heritage of blessing.

¹⁵ But give honour to Christ in your hearts as your Lord; and be ready at any time when you are questioned about the hope which is in you, to give an answer in the fear of the Lord and without pride;