Day 36: Acts 24

Paul had been brought to the provincial capital, Caesarea. This was on the coast of northern Palestine. The governor’s name was Felix. The High Priest Ananias came with some elders of the Jewish nation and an attorney named Tertullus to bring charges against Paul.
Luke describes this historical event in detail. The prosecutor begins his opening statements by reminding the governor that there is peace and tranquility in the land because of his ruling. Then he begins by calling Paul a public menace and a threat to that peace. He is very smart with his words as he tries to obtain favor with the governor. Then he mentions the “hearsay” evidence that Paul tried to desecrate the temple. He asks the governor to interrogate Paul himself.
Felix nods to Paul to speak. Paul begins by recounting his trip to Jerusalem and telling his side of the story. Paul even points out that his accusers have no proof of their accusations. He further describes his purpose in going to Jerusalem was to bring charitable gifts to his nation. Paul also asked Felix why the Asiatic Jews who had actually dragged him out of the temple and accused him were not there at the trial. Then he reiterated his final statement before the Jews that he was on trial for the resurrection of the dead.
Felix had studied “the way”, as the new Christian church was called then and he had a lot of accurate understanding of the new church. So he said he would wait until the commander of the Jerusalem army came to them to decide his case. He ordered that Paul be kept in custody but to have some freedom and receive visits.
A few days later Felix and his wife Drusilla (who was Jewish), were there at the trial and they had Paul speak about faith in Jesus. So, Paul started in talking about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come. This frightened Felix and he sent Paul away and hoped that some day Paul would give Felix money to dismiss his case, so he would send for Paul often to talk to him. This went on for two years. After two years, Festus became the new governor. Festus wanted to do the Jews a favor, so he left Paul imprisoned.
Paul could have just sat there in prison and felt sorry for himself. He might have been able to buy his freedom at any time because he was receiving aid from the disciples. But instead, he took advantage of every opportunity to witness to Felix and his wife. Today whatever trial you are going through, look for God’s opportunity to share your testimony with someone. Keep your conscience clear of any wrongdoing so when you are accused, no one will be able to prove you have done wrong.