Albert Barnes Commentary Acts 28:19

"But when the Jews spake against it, I was constrained to appeal unto Caesar; not that I had aught whereof to accuse my nation." — Acts 28:19 (ASV)

The Jews spoke against it. Against my being set at liberty.

I was constrained. By a regard to my own safety and character.

To appeal to Caesar. See Barnes on Acts 25:11.

Not that I had anything to accuse my nation of. I did it for my own preservation and safety; not that I wished to accuse my own countrymen. It was not from motives of revenge, but for safety. Paul had been unjustly accused and injured; yet, with the true spirit of the Christian religion, he here says that he cherished no unkind feelings towards them.