Acts 24:2 And when he was called forth, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying, Seeing that by you we enjoy great quietness… See the rendering in the Revised Version, "Seeing that by thee we enjoy much peace, and that by thy providence evils are corrected for this nation." How far this may be a true description of Felix it may be difficult to decide. The only good thing known of his rule is the energetic effort which he made to put denim the gangs of Sicarii (Assassins) and brigands by whom Palestine was infested. Within two years of this very time Felix was recalled from his province, and accused by the Jews at Rome. He only escaped punishment by the intervention of his brother Pallas, then as high in favor with Nero as he had been with Claudius. But Tertullus describes the proper influence of good rulers, and so suggests a subject on which we may profitably dwell. I. THE GROWTH OF NATIONAL EVILS, ESPECIALLY IN A CONQUERED NATION. Certain forms of lawlessness are only kept in check by the strong hand of an active, vigorous government. In every land there are criminal classes and revolutionary classes, and these make headway as soon as, from any cause, the pressure of authority and national police is relieved. In a conquered nation there is always a dangerous sympathy with the revolutionary classes, which increases burglary, brigandage, and murder. Effective illustration may be taken from the recent history of Ireland. II. THE MODES IN WHICH SUCH NATIONAL EVILS MAY BE CORRECTED. 1. There is the simple, but harsh method of conquest by armies, and the crushing down of all expressions of life by brute force. This, however, never really succeeds. 2. There is the slow method of forming aright public opinion, which makes the nation become its own police. This often fails, because the demagogue creates an opposing and unworthy public opinion. 3. There is the influence gained by the good ruler who can be prompt and strong, wise and far seeing, who loves the people, and masters the evils for the people's sakes. Such a ruler secures peace from external quarrels and internal dissensions, and, in securing peace, bears directly on the people's well being. He effects all reasonable reforms, so as to remove everything that hinders the national prosperity. Show that it becomes us to pray for good rulers; to seek grace and help for them that they may rule well; and to aid them in carrying out all good schemes. - R.T. Parallel Verses KJV: 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, |
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