Acts 24:1-27
Q.1. How long was it before the Jewish leaders brought their case before Felix? Why was Tertullus there? What were their charges against Paul? – (Acts 24:1-9)
The High Priest and some elders came within five days, to bring their charges against Paul. They mounted a serious attack and brought an attorney (literally – orator), to sway Governor Felix (Acts 24:1). Though the Jews did not respect Roman rule, Tertullus tried to flatter Felix. He claimed that Paul was – … a real pest and a fellow who stirs up dissension among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes (Acts 24:5). Without supporting evidence, he said that they arrested Paul, because he – tried to desecrate the temple (Acts 24:6). He also reported the violent intervention of Lysias, the commander (Acts 24:7). The whole delegation agreed.
Q.2. How did Paul address Felix? Did following The Way contradict the Law and the Prophets? What was the real reason Paul was being persecuted? – (Acts 24:10-21)
Paul was familiar with Caesarea and may have known that Felix’s wife was Jewish (Acts 24:24 c.f. Acts 21:8). He happily brought his defence before him (Acts 24:10). He asserted that his accusers could not support their charges – 14 But this I admit to you, that according to the Way which they call a sect I do serve the God of our fathers, believing everything that is in accordance with the Law and that is written in the Prophets; 15 having a hope in God, which these men cherish themselves, that there shall certainly be a resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked (Acts 24:14-15). He claimed that his faith was totally in agreement with the Old Testament Scriptures. The Council was controlled by Sadducees who refused to accept the validity of miracles or the supernatural. The other faction was Pharisees, who supported the resurrection of the dead (Acts 24:21). They all persecuted Paul, because their eyes were blinded to the death and resurrection of Jesus as the Messiah.
Q.3. How well was Felix informed about Judaism and The WAY? What freedoms did Paul enjoy? Why did Felix dismiss Paul? What was his real interest in Paul? – (Acts 24:22-27)
It is clear from Luke’s record that both Felix and his Jewish wife Drusilla were more than interested in the Gospel, and – … sent for Paul and heard him speak about faith in Christ Jesus (Acts 24:24). Paul was free to share the Gospel. Felix – … gave orders to the centurion for him to be kept in custody and yet have some freedom, and not to prevent any of his friends from ministering to him (Acts 24:23). However, Paul’s message was too convicting, and while – … discussing righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix became frightened and said, “Go away for the present, and when I find time, I will summon you.”(Acts 24:25). Felix – … used to send for him quite often and converse with him (Acts 24:26). Sadly, Felix would not humble himself, and was always – … hoping that money would be given him by Paul (Acts 24:26). Furthermore, to ingratiate himself to the Jews, Felix kept Paul in prison for 2 years (Acts 24:27).