Biblical Context:
The account of Tertullus prosecuting Paul is found in the Book of Acts, specifically in Acts 24:1-9. This event takes place during Paul's imprisonment in Caesarea, where he is brought before the Roman governor, Felix, to face accusations from the Jewish leaders.

Historical Background:
Tertullus was a skilled orator and lawyer, likely a Hellenistic Jew, who was employed by the Jewish Sanhedrin to present their case against Paul. The Jewish leaders, including the high priest Ananias, sought to leverage Roman authority to condemn Paul, whom they viewed as a significant threat to their religious and social order.

The Accusations:
Tertullus begins his prosecution with flattery towards Governor Felix, a common rhetorical strategy intended to curry favor with the judge. He states, "We have enjoyed a long period of peace under you, and your foresight has brought about reforms in this nation" (Acts 24:2). This introduction sets the stage for the accusations against Paul.

The charges brought by Tertullus are threefold:
1. Sedition: Tertullus accuses Paul of being "a troublemaker, stirring up riots among the Jews all over the world" (Acts 24:5). This charge is serious, as it implies that Paul is a threat to Roman peace and order, a key concern for Roman authorities.

2. Sectarianism: He labels Paul as "a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes" (Acts 24:5). This accusation aims to portray Christianity as a dangerous and unauthorized sect, distinct from Judaism, which was a legally recognized religion in the Roman Empire.

3. Temple Desecration: Tertullus claims that Paul "even tried to desecrate the temple" (Acts 24:6). This charge is designed to incite religious outrage, as the temple was the center of Jewish worship and identity.

Paul's Defense:
In response to these accusations, Paul is given the opportunity to defend himself. He refutes the charges by asserting his innocence and emphasizing his adherence to the law and the prophets. Paul argues that he was in Jerusalem to worship and bring alms to his people, not to incite rebellion or desecrate the temple (Acts 24:11-13).

Theological Implications:
The prosecution of Paul by Tertullus highlights the early Christian struggle for legitimacy and the tension between the nascent Christian movement and established Jewish authorities. It underscores the fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy that His followers would face persecution for His name's sake (Matthew 10:18).

Significance in Early Church History:
This event is pivotal in the narrative of Acts, as it demonstrates the legal challenges faced by the early Church and the providential protection of God over His apostle. Despite the false accusations, Paul's Roman citizenship and his strategic appeal to Caesar ultimately lead to the further spread of the Gospel, as Paul is sent to Rome.

Conclusion:
The account of Tertullus prosecuting Paul serves as a testament to the resilience of the early Church and the unwavering commitment of its leaders to the truth of the Gospel, even in the face of legal and societal opposition.