²³ “If I said something wrong,” Jesus replied, “testify as to what is wrong. But if I spoke the truth, why did you strike me?”^(A)

²⁰ But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God.^{(A) 21} To this^(B) you were called,^(C) because Christ suffered for you,^(D) leaving you an example,^(E) that you should follow in his steps.

²³ When they hurled their insults at him,^(H) he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats.^(I) Instead, he entrusted himself^(J) to him who judges justly.^(K)

Paul’s Defense of His Ministry

10 By the humility and gentleness^(A) of Christ, I appeal to you—I, Paul,^(B) who am “timid” when face to face with you, but “bold” toward you when away!

³⁹ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.^(A)

² At this the high priest Ananias^(A) ordered those standing near Paul to strike him on the mouth.^{(B) 3} Then Paul said to him, “God will strike you, you whitewashed wall!^(C) You sit there to judge me according to the law, yet you yourself violate the law by commanding that I be struck!”^(D)

⁴ Those who were standing near Paul said, “How dare you insult God’s high priest!”

⁵ Paul replied, “Brothers, I did not realize that he was the high priest; for it is written: ‘Do not speak evil about the ruler of your people.’^[a]”^(E)