Acts 25:8-12

⁸Paul's answer to the charge was — ‘I have not committed any offense against the Jewish Law, or the Temple, or the Emperor.’

⁹But, as Festus wished to gain popularity with the Jews, he interrupted Paul with the question, “Are you willing to go up to Jerusalem and be tried on these charges before me there?”

¹⁰“No,” replied Paul, “I am standing at the Emperor's court, where I ought to be tried. I have not wronged the Jews, as you yourself are well aware.

¹¹If, however, I am breaking the law and have committed any offense deserving death, I do not ask to escape the penalty; but, if there is nothing in the accusations of these people, no one has the power to give me up to them. I appeal to the Emperor.”

¹²Festus, after conferring with his Council, answered, “You have appealed to the Emperor; to the Emperor you will go.”