The governor then motioned for Paul to speak. He said, “I know that you’ve been a judge over this nation for many years, so I’m happy to explain my actions to you.
But make sure that you honor Christ as Lord in your hearts. Always be ready to give an answer to anyone who asks you to give a reason for the hope you have. But do this gently and with respect.
The commander told him he could, so Paul stood on the steps and motioned to the crowd. When they quieted down, he began to speak to them in the Hebrew language.
Peter motioned with his hands for them to be quiet. Then he explained how the Lord had freed him from prison. “Tell James and the other brothers and sisters about this,” he said, and then he went to a different place.