1 So Agrippa said to Paul, “It is permitted for you to speak for yourself.” Then Paul extended his hand and began to defend himself:
2 “Concerning all the things of which I am accused by the Jews, King Agrippa, I consider myself fortunate that before you I am about to defend myself today,
3 because you are especially acquainted with both all the customs and controversial questions with respect to the Jews. Therefore I beg you to listen to me with patience.
4 “Now all the Jews know my manner of life from my youth, that had taken place from the beginning among my own people and in Jerusalem,
5 having known me for a long time, if they are willing to testify, that in accordance with the strictest party of our religion I lived as a Pharisee.
6 And now I stand here on trial on the basis of hope in the promise made by God to our fathers,