Topical Bible: Select Readings: Paul in Front of Governor Felix

Bible > Topical > Select Readings

◄ Select Readings: Paul in Front of Governor Felix ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

Context and Background:

The Apostle Paul's appearance before Governor Felix is a significant event recorded in the Acts of the Apostles, specifically in Acts 24. This episode occurs during Paul's third missionary journey, after his arrest in Jerusalem. The Jewish leaders, unable to execute their plans to kill Paul, bring him before the Roman authorities, hoping to secure a conviction that would lead to his execution.

Biblical Account:

In Acts 24, Paul is brought before Felix, the Roman governor of Judea, in Caesarea. The high priest Ananias, along with some elders and a lawyer named Tertullus, present their case against Paul. Tertullus accuses Paul of being a "troublemaker, stirring up riots among the Jews all over the world" and a "ringleader of the Nazarene sect" (Acts 24:5). He also accuses Paul of attempting to desecrate the temple, a charge that Paul refutes.

Paul, given the opportunity to defend himself, asserts his innocence. He explains that he went to Jerusalem to worship and bring alms to his people, not to incite unrest. Paul states, "I admit that I worship the God of our fathers according to the Way, which they call a sect. I believe everything that is laid down by the Law and written in the Prophets" (Acts 24:14). He emphasizes his hope in the resurrection of the dead, a belief shared by the Pharisees, which is central to his faith and mission.

Felix's Response:

Governor Felix, familiar with "the Way" (the early Christian movement), decides to adjourn the proceedings, stating that he will make a decision when Lysias the commander comes down. Felix keeps Paul under guard but grants him some freedom, allowing his friends to attend to his needs (Acts 24:22-23).

Felix's interest in Paul's message is piqued, and he frequently sends for Paul to hear him speak about faith in Christ Jesus. However, when Paul discusses righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment, Felix becomes frightened and dismisses him, saying, "For now, leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you" (Acts 24:25). Despite his fear, Felix hopes for a bribe from Paul, which never comes.

Historical and Theological Significance:

Paul's trial before Felix highlights several key themes in early Christianity. It underscores the tension between the nascent Christian movement and the Jewish authorities, as well as the Roman Empire's role in adjudicating these disputes. Paul's defense articulates the continuity of Christian faith with Jewish tradition, emphasizing the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets through Jesus Christ.

The episode also illustrates the moral and ethical challenges faced by Roman officials when confronted with the transformative message of the Gospel. Felix's reaction to Paul's discourse on righteousness and judgment reflects the convicting power of the Gospel, which often elicits fear and resistance from those in positions of power.

Paul's Imprisonment:

Paul remains in custody for two years, during which Felix is succeeded by Porcius Festus. Felix, seeking to curry favor with the Jewish leaders, leaves Paul imprisoned (Acts 24:27). This prolonged detention, while seemingly a setback, serves to further the spread of the Gospel as Paul continues to witness to those around him, including Roman officials and guards.

This account of Paul before Felix is a testament to the Apostle's unwavering commitment to his mission and his ability to articulate the Christian faith with clarity and conviction, even in the face of adversity and potential death.

Nave's Topical Index

Acts 24:1-27
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.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

[Endnotes]
... These churches were not, however, founded by Paul. ... Minucius Felix in his Octavius
speaks of Diana as represented "at Ephesus with many distended breasts ranged ...
//christianbookshelf.org/killen/the ancient church/endnotes.htm

Period I: the Imperial State Church of the Undivided Empire, or ...
... it ruled out the complaints against Felix until more ... Paul of Samosata had admitted
the existence of an ... and elsewhere, there is a variety of readings, but of ...
/.../ayer/a source book for ancient church history/period i the imperial state.htm

Period iii. The Dissolution of the Imperial State Church and the ...
... of Theodore of Mopsuestia have been handed to us which contain many things contrary
to the right faith, we, following the warnings of the Apostle Paul, who said ...
/.../ayer/a source book for ancient church history/period iii the dissolution of.htm