Transcript:
Your Honor, I would like to begin my final statement with the same thought with which the apostle Paul once began his defense before his accusers: "Men, brothers, I have behaved before God with a completely clear conscience down to this day." (Acts 23:1, New World Translation) As I analyze the actions for which I have been accused in this trial, I return again and again to the conclusion that I have nothing to reproach myself for — I have not killed anyone, maimed anyone, stolen anything or deceived anyone, nor have I caused harm to people or the state.
Nevertheless, the prosecutor requests that I be found guilty and sentenced. Well, I am not the first nor will I be the last to face such circumstances.
A good example of courage in such situations for me is the prophet Daniel. He was a government official and responsibly carried out his duties. However, because Daniel regularly prayed to God, he was accused of disobeying the king and severely punished — thrown into a pit, or dungeon, with lions, where death was certain. Even though Daniel knew that something like this could happen to him, he showed courage and relied on God. He was confident that God would help him in any situation. And Daniel was not disappointed! Notice what he said to King Darius the next morning: "My God sent his angel and shut the mouth of the lions, and they have not harmed me." (Daniel 6:22, New World Translation) He went on to explain why God took his side: "Because there was found in me innocence before him, and also before you, O king, I have done no harm." Daniel was not a religious fanatic who disregarded the laws of his country. He was a law-abiding citizen and at the same time served his God peacefully and faithfully. He noted that his religious activity did not cause any harm to the king. Daniel acted according to his conscience, although this required considerable courage. He understood that his actions did not harm anyone, even though some might not like them. As a …