Acts 24:1-27 Paul imprisoned for two years under trial
24:1-9 Jewish Accusations
24:10-21 Paul defends his case before Felix
24:22-27 Politics of Felix
Acts 24:1-9 Jewish Accusations
The Jewish religious leaders, especially the High Priest Ananias with Tertullus, a lawyer, sailed to Caesarea to appear before Governor Felix for the trial of Paul. The lawyer who appeared on behalf of the Sanhedrin had highly appreciated the Government of Rome and their regime. He praised stating that the Romans regime brought Peace and reforms to the nation. It was false. He further narrated that Paul is a trouble maker and stirred up riots among the Jews and the world. He told the Governor that Paul was a ring leader of the Nazarene sect. They ready-made the Jews to accuse Paul with all these words and so on.
It is painful to learn that religious people join hands with wicked rulers, leaders, and those in power. So-called religious leaders indeed go to any extreme to trouble the saints for their survival. The funny thing is that the rulers take the righteous into task and risk. Every generation behaves alike, has the same issues, reactions are the same. The evil rulers treat well as bad; and bad as good.
Acts 24:10-21 Paul defends his case before Felix.
Paul saluted the Governor referred to his years of experience as Judge and Governor of that province. The Governor had dual roles as Ruler and a Judge of a state where they are appointed. Paul defended his case and explained that his enemies could not argue with him over the doctrinal issues. Therefore to hide their defeat Jewish leaders created a riot and confusion to divert the attention of the people. Paul declared before Governor Felix that he was a follower of the WAY. He also expressed that Law and the Prophets are pointing to that WAY. Paul testified very boldly about the resurrection of the righteous and the wicked. He further narrated to the Governor that he had been to Jerusalem temple for the ceremonial cleansing. He was sighted there by his opponents and created a chaotic situation to avoid discussion about the resurrection.
Acts 24:22-27 Politics of Felix
Felix was well acquainted with the Way what Paul was talking about it. So he stopped the proceedings. Adjourned the hearing stating that he would hear again after the arrival of Commander Lysias. Paul was kept under guard with the freedom to meet his friends and take care of him. Several days later, Felix had come with his wife Drusilla, who Was a Jewess. Paul summoned again to speak about the faith in Christ Jesus. Paul discoursed on righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come. Felix was afraid and said, “now it is enough”. I will call you when it is convenient. Felix was hoping that Paul would offer him something as a bribe so that he would be released. But, for two years, nothing had happened. Porcius Festus succeeded Felix However, and Paul was kept in Prison.
Discussion:
1. The attitude of the people in power during crises.
2. What we learn from the defence of Paul.
3. Felix represents whom in our society.
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