Paul had gone to Jerusalem to bring an offering and an account of all that God had been doing in the churches outside of Israel. However, upon worshipping in the temple he was attacked, and taken into custody. He was questioned by the Roman cohort commander. He stood to give his defense before the Jews. He gave an explanation before the high priest and the council of the Pharisees and the Sadducees. He had done nothing wrong but was attacked simply because he followed Jesus. He then was sent to Caesarea where he would stand trial before Felix, Festus, and Agrippa all of whom found no fault in him. However, with a desire to keep the Jews (Paul's own people) happy, they kept him in prison. After all of this the attack on Paul, by the Jews would not stop so he appealed to stand trial before Caesar. When arriving in Rome Paul sent for the Jews in the area and explained what had happened to him and then he says in Acts 28:19-21 But when the Jews objected, I was forced to appeal to Caesar, not that I had any accusation against my nation. For this reason, therefore, I requested to see you and to speak with you, for I am wearing this chain for the sake of the hope of Israel.” They said to him, “We have neither received letters from Judea concerning you, nor have any of the brethren come here and reported or spoken anything bad about you.
Paul after such treatment still says "Not that I had any accusation against my nation." Paul after such a period of time, and after such mistreatment, and after such false accusations, still didn't have anything bad to say against his countrymen. His desire was not to have vengeance but to see as many as possible be saved. We should have that same love and desire for those who mistreat us. More than likely no one who reads this has been sought out, to be killed by others for their faith in Christ. Yet, you are called to forgive those who would do such a thing by the Christ who did that for you. Paul continues to tell them He is in chains and being held because he wants to offer hope in Jesus to the people of his nation. The same nation that sought his death for this very reason. Yet here he is still attempting to offer them that hope. Then we see that the perseverance and his forgiveness start to pay off as they say we have not received any accusations against you. If you read on many were willing to listen about Jesus and some believed. People we must not hold a grudge because it was the forgiveness and long-suffering of Christ that gave us an opportunity for salvation. No matter how much they attack, you must keep on Sharing the Way. When you do eventually many will listen and a few might be saved. Perseverance and forgiveness are the keys to a productive ministry. Love Bro. Scott