1 And after five days Ananias the high priest descended with the elders, and [with] a certain orator [named] Tertullus, who informed the governor against Paul.
2 And when he was called forth, Tertullus began to accuse [him], saying, Seeing that by thee we enjoy great quietness, and that very worthy deeds are done unto this nation by thy providence,
3 We accept [it] always, and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness.
4 Notwithstanding, that I be not further tedious unto thee, I pray thee that thou wouldest hear us of thy clemency a few words.
5 For we have found this man [a] pestilent [fellow], and a mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes:
6 Who also hath gone about to profane the temple: whom we took, and would have judged according to our law.
7 But the chief captain Lysias came [upon us], and with great violence took [him] away out of our hands,
8 Commanding his accusers to come unto thee: by examining of whom thyself mayest take knowledge of all these things, whereof we accuse him.
9 And the Jews also assented, saying that these things were so.
10 Then Paul, after that the governor had beckoned unto him to speak, answered, Forasmuch as I know that thou hast been of many years a judge unto this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself:
11 Because that thou mayest understand, that there are yet but twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem for to worship.
12 And they neither found me in the temple disputing with any man, neither raising up the people, neither in the synagogues, nor in the city:
13 Neither can they prove the things whereof they now accuse me.
14 But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets:
15 And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust.
16 And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and [toward] men.
17 Now after many years I came to bring alms to my nation, and offerings.
18 Whereupon certain Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with multitude, nor with tumult.
19 Who ought to have been here before thee, and object, if they had ought against me.
20 Or else let these same [here] say, if they have found any evil doing in me, while I stood before the council,
21 Except it be for this one voice, that I cried standing among them, Touching the resurrection of the dead I am called in question by you this day.
22 And when Felix heard these things, having more perfect knowledge of [that] way, he deferred them, and said, When Lysias the chief captain shall come down, I will know the uttermost of your matter.
23 And he commanded a centurion to keep Paul, and to let [him] have liberty, and that he should forbid none of his acquaintance to minister or come unto him.
24 And after certain days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, which was a Jewess, he sent for Paul, and heard him concerning the faith in Christ.
25 And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee.
26 He hoped also that money should have been given him of Paul, that he might loose him: wherefore he sent for him the oftener, and communed with him.
27 But after two years Porcius Festus came into Felix’ room: and Felix, willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, left Paul bound.
Overview of Acts Chapter 24
Acts 24 describes a pivotal moment in the life of the Apostle Paul as he stands trial before the Roman governor Felix. This chapter highlights themes of justice, political maneuvering, and the early Christian experience in the face of opposition.
Key Characters
- Paul: The Apostle who is on trial for his faith and actions.
- Felix: The Roman governor presiding over Paul’s trial.
- Tertullus: The lawyer representing the Jewish leaders against Paul.
- Jewish Leaders: The group accusing Paul of various offenses.
Structure of the Chapter
- Accusations Against Paul (Verses 1-9):
The chapter opens with the Jewish leaders arriving in Caesarea to present their case against Paul. Tertullus delivers a formal accusation, highlighting three main charges against Paul:
- Stirring up riots among the Jews.
- Being a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes.
- Attempting to desecrate the temple.
- Paul’s Defense (Verses 10-21):
Paul is given the opportunity to respond to the accusations. He presents a logical defense:
- He had not caused any disturbance.
- His visit to Jerusalem was for worship, not to incite unrest.
- The accusations regarding the temple are unfounded as he was not involved in any wrongdoing.
- Felix’s Response (Verses 22-27):
Felix, aware of the Christian faith, postpones the decision on Paul’s case, seeking to gain favor with the Jewish leaders. He allows Paul to remain under guard but gives him some freedom, including visits from friends. Over time, Felix and his wife Drusilla listen to Paul, but they are unsettled by his teachings on righteousness and judgment.
Thematic Analysis
- Justice and Injustice:
The chapter illustrates the complexities of justice within the Roman legal system. Paul, a Roman citizen, is subjected to a trial that is influenced more by political expediency than by a genuine pursuit of justice.
- Faith Under Trial:
Paul’s steadfastness in the face of false accusations serves as a testament to his faith. His defense is not only a legal strategy but also a proclamation of his beliefs.
- Political Manipulation:
Felix’s actions reflect the political maneuvering common in governance, where personal gain often outweighs justice. His desire to please the Jewish leaders complicates the legal proceedings.
- Christian Witness:
Paul’s interactions with Felix and Drusilla highlight the importance of witnessing to those in power. His message of righteousness and judgment resonates, even if it leads to discomfort for his listeners.
Conclusion
Acts 24 serves as a critical chapter in the narrative of Paul’s ministry, showcasing the challenges faced by early Christians. The interplay of faith, justice, and politics is vividly portrayed, offering insights into the nature of trials—both legal and spiritual. Paul’s unwavering commitment to his mission, even in the face of adversity, sets a powerful example for believers throughout the ages.
