23 Paul looked straight at the Sanhedrin^(A) and said, “My brothers,^(B) I have fulfilled my duty to God in all good conscience^(C) to this day.”

² Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways;^(A) we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God.^(B) On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience^(C) in the sight of God.

¹² We are not trying to commend ourselves to you again,^(A) but are giving you an opportunity to take pride in us,^(B) so that you can answer those who take pride in what is seen rather than in what is in the heart.

¹⁰ You are witnesses,^(A) and so is God,^(B) of how holy,^(C) righteous and blameless we were among you who believed.