²² My God sent His angel^(A) and shut the lions’ mouths. They haven’t hurt me, for I was found innocent before Him. Also, I have not committed a crime against you my king.”

²⁶ They were not able to catch Him in what He said^[a] in public,^[b] and being amazed at His answer, they became silent.^(A)

¹⁴ and said to them, “You have brought me this man as one who subverts the people.^(A) But in fact, after examining Him in your presence, I have found no grounds^(B) to charge this man with those things you accuse Him of.

¹⁵ so that you may be blameless^(A) and pure,^(B) children of God who are faultless^(C) in a crooked^(D) and perverted^(E) generation,^(F) among whom you shine like stars in the world.

¹² Conduct^(A) yourselves honorably among the Gentiles,^[a] so that in a case where they speak against you as those who do what is evil, they will, by observing your good works, glorify God on the day of visitation.^[b](B)

¹⁶ However, do this with gentleness and respect, keeping your conscience clear,^[a][b](A) so that when you are accused,^[c] those who denounce your Christian life^[d] will be put to shame.