²⁵ But Paul replied, “I am not insane, Most Excellent Festus. What I am saying is the sober truth.

⁷ And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching. ⁸ Teach the truth so that your teaching can’t be criticized. Then those who oppose us will be ashamed and have nothing bad to say about us.

⁹ He must have a strong belief in the trustworthy message he was taught; then he will be able to encourage others with wholesome teaching and show those who oppose it where they are wrong.

¹⁵ Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it.

⁹ Don’t repay evil for evil. Don’t retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will grant you his blessing.

²¹ For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered^[a] for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps.

³ For all of this, Your Excellency, we are very grateful to you.

⁴⁹ “No,” Jesus said, “I have no demon in me. For I honor my Father—and you dishonor me.

³ Having carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I also have decided to write an accurate account for you, most honorable Theophilus,