²⁰ For this reason I have asked to see you and talk with you. It is because of the hope of Israel^(A) that I am bound with this chain.”^(B)

⁹ for which I am suffering^(A) even to the point of being chained^(B) like a criminal. But God’s word^(C) is not chained.

²⁰ for which I am an ambassador^(A) in chains.^(B) Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.

⁶ And now it is because of my hope^(A) in what God has promised our ancestors^(B) that I am on trial today. ⁷ This is the promise our twelve tribes^(C) are hoping to see fulfilled as they earnestly serve God day and night.^(D) King Agrippa, it is because of this hope that these Jews are accusing me.^(E)

¹³ As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard^[a] and to everyone else that I am in chains^(A) for Christ.

²⁹ Paul replied, “Short time or long—I pray to God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains.”^(A)

Unity and Maturity in the Body of Christ

4 As a prisoner^(A) for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy^(B) of the calling^(C) you have received.

God’s Marvelous Plan for the Gentiles

3 For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner^(A) of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles—

¹⁵ and I have the same hope in God as these men themselves have, that there will be a resurrection^(A) of both the righteous and the wicked.^(B)