²⁵ But Paul said, “I am not out of my mind, ^(A)most excellent Festus, but I am speaking ^(B)true and ^(C)rational words.

²⁶ “Claudius Lysias, to ^(A)his Excellency the governor Felix, ^(B)greetings.

⁷ Show yourself in all respects to be ^(A)a model of good works, and in your teaching ^(B)show integrity, ^(C)dignity, ⁸ and ^(D)sound speech that cannot be condemned, ^(E)so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.

⁹ He must ^(A)hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in ^(B)sound^[a] doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.

¹⁵ but ^(A)in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, ^(B)always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and ^(C)respect,

^9 (A)Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, ^(B)bless, for ^(C)to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.

²¹ For ^(A)to this you have been called, ^(B)because Christ also suffered for you, ^(C)leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. ^22 (D)He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. ^23 (E)When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, ^(F)but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly.

³ in every way and everywhere we accept this with all gratitude.

⁴⁹ Jesus answered, “I do not have a demon, but ^(A)I honor my Father, and you dishonor me.