Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version Since they were spending many days there, Festus discussed Paul’s case with the king. He said: “There is a man here whom Felix left as a prisoner. New Living Translation During their stay of several days, Festus discussed Paul’s case with the king. “There is a prisoner here,” he told him, “whose case was left for me by Felix. English Standard Version And as they stayed there many days, Festus laid Paul’s case before the king, saying, “There is a man left prisoner by Felix, Berean Standard Bible Since they were staying several days, Festus laid out Paul’s case before the king: “There is a certain man whom Felix left in prison. Berean Literal Bible And as they were staying there many days, Festus laid before the king the things relating to Paul, saying, “There is a certain man left by Felix, a prisoner, King James Bible And when they had been there many days, Festus declared Paul's cause unto the king, saying, There is a certain man left in bonds by Felix: New King James Version When they had been there many days, Festus laid Paul’s case before the king, saying: “There is a certain man left a prisoner by Felix, New American Standard Bible And while they were spending many days there, Festus presented Paul’s case to the king, saying, “There is a man who was left as a prisoner by Felix; NASB 1995 While they were spending many days there, Festus laid Paul’s case before the king, saying, “There is a man who was left as a prisoner by Felix; NASB 1977 And while they were spending many days there, Festus laid Paul’s case before the king, saying, “There is a certain man left a prisoner by Felix; Legacy Standard Bible And while they were spending many days there, Festus laid Paul’s case before the king, saying, “There is a man who was left as a prisoner by Felix; Amplified Bible While they were spending many days there, Festus laid Paul’s case before the king, saying, “There is a man here who was left as a prisoner by Felix. Berean Annotated Bible Since they were staying several days, Festus (festival) laid out Paul’s case before the king: “There is a certain man whom Felix (lucky) left in prison. Christian Standard Bible Since they were staying there several days, Festus presented Paul’s case to the king, saying, “There’s a man who was left as a prisoner by Felix. Holman Christian Standard Bible Since they stayed there many days, Festus presented Paul’s case to the king, saying, “There’s a man who was left as a prisoner by Felix. American Standard Version And as they tarried there many days, Festus laid Paul's case before the King, saying, There is a certain man left a prisoner by Felix; Contemporary English Version They had been there for several days, when Festus told the king about the charges against Paul. He said: Felix left a man here in jail, English Revised Version And as they tarried there many days, Festus laid Paul's case before the king, saying, There is a certain man left a prisoner by Felix: GOD'S WORD® Translation Since they were staying there for a number of days, Festus told the king about Paul's case. Festus said, "Felix left a man here in prison. Good News Translation After they had been there several days, Festus explained Paul's situation to the king: "There is a man here who was left a prisoner by Felix; International Standard Version Since they were staying there for several days, Festus laid Paul's case before the king. He said, "There is a man here who was left in prison by Felix. NET Bible While they were staying there many days, Festus explained Paul's case to the king to get his opinion, saying, "There is a man left here as a prisoner by Felix. New Heart English Bible As they stayed there many days, Festus laid Paul's case before the king, saying, "There is a certain man left a prisoner by Felix; Webster's Bible Translation And when they had been there many days, Festus declared Paul's cause to the king, saying, There is a certain man left in bonds by Felix: Weymouth New Testament and, during their rather long stay, Festus laid Paul's case before the king. "There is a man here," he said, "whom Felix left a prisoner, Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleSince he was staying several days, Festus laid out Paul’s case before the king: “There is a certain man whom Felix left in prison. World English Bible As he stayed there many days, Festus laid Paul’s case before the king, saying, “There is a certain man left a prisoner by Felix; Literal Translations Literal Standard Versionand as they were continuing there more days, Festus submitted to the king the things concerning Paul, saying, “There is a certain man, left by Felix, a prisoner, Berean Literal Bible And as they were staying there many days, Festus laid before the king the things relating to Paul, saying, “There is a certain man left by Felix, a prisoner, Young's Literal Translation and as they were continuing there more days, Festus submitted to the king the things concerning Paul, saying, 'There is a certain man, left by Felix, a prisoner, Smith's Literal Translation And as they tarried there many days, Festus set up to the king the things of Paul, saying, There is a certain man left in bonds by Felix: Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd as they tarried there many days, Festus told the king of Paul, saying: A certain man was left prisoner by Felix. Catholic Public Domain Version And since they remained there for many days, Festus spoke to the king about Paul, saying: “A certain man was left behind as a prisoner by Felix. New American Bible Since they spent several days there, Festus referred Paul’s case to the king, saying, “There is a man here left in custody by Felix. New Revised Standard Version Since they were staying there several days, Festus laid Paul’s case before the king, saying, “There is a man here who was left in prison by Felix. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd when they had been with him several days, Festus related Paul’s case to the king, saying, There is a certain prisoner left by Felix: Aramaic Bible in Plain English And when they were with him some days, Festus related to The King the case of Paulus, when he said, “One man is a prisoner left from the hands of Felix.” NT Translations Anderson New TestamentAnd as they remained there many days, Festus made known to the king the facts concerning Paul, saying: There is a certain man, who was left in bonds by Felix, Godbey New Testament And while they were spending many days there, Festus expounded to the king the matters appertaining to Paul, saying, A certain man has been left a prisoner by Felix: Haweis New Testament And as their stay there was extended to a considerable time, Festus communicated to the king Paul’s affairs, saying, There is a certain man left by Felix, a prisoner: Mace New Testament as they continued there for some time, Festus represented Paul's case to the king: Felix, said he, had left here a certain prisoner: Weymouth New Testament and, during their rather long stay, Festus laid Paul's case before the king. "There is a man here," he said, "whom Felix left a prisoner, Worrell New Testament And, as they were spending several days there, Festus laid before the king the things relating to Paul, saying, "There is a certain man left a prisoner by Felix; Worsley New Testament And as they spent several days there, Festus related Paul's case to the king, saying, There is a man left in custody by Felix: concerning whom, Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context Festus Consults King Agrippa13After several days had passed, King Agrippa and Bernice came down to Caesarea to pay their respects to Festus. 14Since they were staying several days, Festus laid out Paul’s case before the king: “There is a certain man whom Felix left in prison. 15While I was in Jerusalem, the chief priests and elders of the Jews presented their case and requested a judgment against him.… Cross References Since they were staying several days Acts 20:6 And after the Feast of Unleavened Bread, we sailed from Philippi, and five days later we rejoined them in Troas, where we stayed seven days. Acts 21:4 We sought out the disciples in Tyre and stayed with them seven days. Through the Spirit they kept telling Paul not to go up to Jerusalem. Acts 14:28 And they spent a long time there with the disciples. Festus laid out Paul’s case before the king Acts 26:2 “King Agrippa, I consider myself fortunate to stand before you today to defend myself against all the accusations of the Jews, Acts 24:10 When the governor motioned for Paul to speak, he began his response: “Knowing that you have been a judge over this nation for many years, I gladly make my defense. Luke 12:11 When you are brought before synagogues, rulers, and authorities, do not worry about how to defend yourselves or what to say. “There is a certain man Luke 10:30 Jesus took up this question and said, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho when he fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him, beat him, and went away, leaving him half dead. Acts 10:1 At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion in what was called the Italian Regiment. Luke 16:19 Now there was a rich man dressed in purple and fine linen, who lived each day in joyous splendor. whom Felix left in prison. Acts 24:27 After two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus. And wishing to do the Jews a favor, Felix left Paul in prison. Acts 12:5 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was fervently praying to God for him. Jeremiah 37:16 So Jeremiah went into a cell in the dungeon and remained there a long time. Acts 9:15 “Go!” said the Lord. “This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings, and before the people of Israel. Acts 23:11 The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, “Take courage! As you have testified about Me in Jerusalem, so also you must testify in Rome.” Acts 28:17-19 After three days, he called together the leaders of the Jews. When they had gathered, he said to them, “Brothers, although I have done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, I was taken prisoner in Jerusalem and handed over to the Romans. / They examined me and wanted to release me, because there was no basis for a death sentence against me. / But when the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar, even though I have no charge to bring against my nation. Romans 13:1-7 Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. / Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. / For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Do you want to be unafraid of the one in authority? Then do what is right, and you will have his approval. … Treasury of Scripture And when they had been there many days, Festus declared Paul's cause to the king, saying, There is a certain man left in bonds by Felix: There. Acts 24:27 But after two years Porcius Festus came into Felix' room: and Felix, willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, left Paul bound. Jump to Previous Bonds Case Cause Continuing Declared Discussed Felix Festus Laid Matters Paul's Prison Prisoner Rather Relating Story Submitted TarriedJump to Next Bonds Case Cause Continuing Declared Discussed Felix Festus Laid Matters Paul's Prison Prisoner Rather Relating Story Submitted TarriedActs 25 1. The Jews accuse Paul before Festus.8. He answers for himself, 11. and appeals unto Caesar. 14. Afterwards Festus opens his matter to king Agrippa; 23. and he is brought forth. 25. Festus clears him of having done anything worthy of death. Since they were staying several days This phrase indicates a period of time during which King Agrippa II and his sister Bernice were visiting Festus in Caesarea. The duration of their stay suggests an opportunity for Festus to discuss matters of governance and legal cases, including Paul's situation. The setting is significant as it provides a backdrop for the unfolding of God's plan for Paul to testify before kings, as foretold in Acts 9:15. Festus laid out Paul’s case before the king There is a certain man whom Felix left in prison Persons / Places / Events 1. FestusThe Roman governor who succeeded Felix. He is responsible for overseeing Paul's trial and is seeking advice from King Agrippa. 2. King Agrippa Herod Agrippa II, a Jewish monarch with authority over temple affairs and Jewish religious matters. He is visiting Festus and becomes involved in Paul's case. 3. Paul The apostle who is imprisoned and awaiting trial. His case is being discussed by Festus and Agrippa. 4. Felix The previous Roman governor who left Paul imprisoned. His inaction has led to the current situation. 5. Caesarea The location where Paul is imprisoned and where Festus and Agrippa are discussing his case. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty in TrialsDespite human inaction or injustice, God's plan is at work. Paul's imprisonment under Felix and subsequent trial under Festus and Agrippa are part of God's larger purpose for spreading the Gospel. The Importance of a Faithful Witness Paul remains steadfast in his faith and testimony, providing an example for believers to maintain their witness even in difficult circumstances. The Role of Authorities Understanding the role of government and authorities can help Christians navigate their responsibilities and rights within society, as seen in Paul's interactions with Roman officials. Patience in God's Timing Paul's extended imprisonment teaches believers the value of patience and trust in God's timing, even when circumstances seem unjust or stagnant. Engaging with Culture and Authority Paul's respectful engagement with Roman authorities demonstrates how Christians can interact with secular culture and government while maintaining their faith. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Acts 25:14?2. How does Acts 25:14 demonstrate God's sovereignty in Paul's legal journey? 3. What can we learn about God's timing from Acts 25:14? 4. How does Acts 25:14 connect with Romans 8:28 regarding God's purpose? 5. How should we respond when facing unjust situations like Paul in Acts 25:14? 6. What role does patience play in fulfilling God's plan, as seen in Acts 25:14? 7. What historical context surrounds Acts 25:14 and its significance in Paul's trial? 8. How does Acts 25:14 reflect the political dynamics between Roman and Jewish authorities? 9. What theological implications arise from the interaction between Festus and Agrippa in Acts 25:14? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Acts 25? 11. Is there any archaeological or historical evidence that supports or challenges the presence and actions of King Agrippa II in Acts 25:13–22? 12. Why do the Gospel accounts of Jesus’ trial contradict Jewish and Roman legal procedures? 13. Could the dialog between Paul, Festus, and Agrippa in Acts 25:23-27 be a later literary construction designed to enhance Paul's standing, rather than a factual historical record? 14. Why do the charges against Paul in Acts 25:7 remain vague, and how does this ambiguity align or conflict with other New Testament accounts of similar trials? What Does Acts 25:14 Mean Since They Were Staying Several DaysAgrippa II and Bernice had come to Caesarea to pay their respects to the newly appointed governor (Acts 25:13). Luke notes that “they were staying several days,” highlighting God-ordained margin in the governor’s schedule. During this pause: • Festus could ponder the unresolved Jewish complaints (Acts 25:2-5). • Paul remained safely in custody, sheltered from the plots that had followed him since Jerusalem (Acts 23:12-14). • God created space for His promise that Paul would testify “before kings” to unfold (Acts 9:15; 23:11). Just as Proverbs 21:1 affirms the Lord’s control over rulers’ hearts, these extra days show His quiet sovereignty over every schedule, ensuring His servant’s story reached the right ears. Festus Laid Out Paul’s Case Before the King Roman procedure required clarity before a prisoner could be forwarded to Caesar (Acts 25:25-27). Festus, new to the region and its religious disputes, saw Agrippa as a helpful consultant because the king was “well acquainted with all the customs and controversies of the Jews” (Acts 26:3). By laying out the case: • Festus acknowledged gaps in his own understanding (Acts 25:19). • Agrippa gained first-hand exposure to the gospel Paul preached (Acts 26:22-23). • Paul’s innocence under Roman law became increasingly evident (Acts 25:18; Luke 23:4). Romans 13:1 reminds believers that earthly authorities are God’s servants; here, those very authorities are drawn into God’s redemptive narrative, hearing truth while attempting to weigh legalities. There Is a Certain Man Whom Felix Left in Prison Festus introduces Paul almost casually—“a certain man”—yet heaven views this man as Christ’s chosen witness. Two years earlier Felix had kept Paul confined, hoping for a bribe and currying Jewish favor (Acts 24:26-27). That political delay: • Preserved Paul’s life when riots threatened (Acts 23:10, 30). • Allowed time for letters like Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians to circulate, advancing the gospel (Philippians 1:12-13). • Positioned Paul now to address both Agrippa and, eventually, Nero (Acts 27:24; 28:19). Genesis 50:20 illustrates how human motives can be overridden for greater good; Paul’s continued imprisonment showcases the same principle. Summary Acts 25:14 captures a mundane court discussion, yet beneath it pulses divine orchestration. Extra days in Caesarea opened the door for Festus to seek Agrippa’s counsel, setting the stage for Paul’s powerful defense in Acts 26. What men labeled a routine legal review became a platform for the gospel to echo through palaces, fulfilling Christ’s promise that His witness would reach kings—and reminding believers that every delay, every audience, and every detail rests firmly in God’s providential care. (14) Festus declared Paul's cause unto the king.--The matter seems to have come in, as it were, in the course of conversation. Festus probably thought that Agrippa, who knew all about the Jews and their religion, could throw some light on the peculiar position of his prisoner, who, though a Jew, and professing the utmost reverence for the Law and the Temple, was yet accused and denounced by his compatriots.Verse 14. - As they tarried for when they had been, A.V.: laid for declared, A.V.; case for cause, A.V.; before for unto, A.V.; a prisoner for in bonds, A.V. Many days (πλείους ἡμέρας). Not necessarily many, but as Acts 24:17 (margin), "some," or "several." The number indicated by the comparative degree, πλείων, depends upon what it is compared with. Here it means more days than was necessary for fulfilling the purpose of their visit, which was to salute Festus. They stayed on some days longer. Laid Paul's case before the king; ἀνέθετο τὰ κατὰ τὸν Παῦλον. The word only occurs in the New Testament here and in Galatians 2:2, "I laid before them the gospel which I preach among the Gentiles." In 2 Macc. 3:9, Ἀνέθετο περὶ τοῦ γεγονότος ἐμφανισμοῦ, "Heliodorus laid before the high priest Onias the information that had been given about the treasure in the temple" (see other passages quoted by Kuinoel). The word might be rendered simply "told," the thing told being in the accusative, and the person to whom it is told in the dative. It was very natural that Festus should take the opportunity of consulting Agrippa, a Jew, and expert in all questions of Jewish Law, about Paul's cause.Parallel Commentaries ... Greek Sinceδὲ (de) Conjunction Strong's 1161: A primary particle; but, and, etc. they were staying διέτριβον (dietribon) Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural Strong's 1304: To tarry, continue, stay in a place. From dia and the base of tribos; to wear through, i.e. Remain. several πλείους (pleious) Adjective - Accusative Feminine Plural - Comparative Strong's 4119: Or neuter pleion, or pleon comparative of polus; more in quantity, number, or quality; also the major portion. days, ἡμέρας (hēmeras) Noun - Accusative Feminine Plural Strong's 2250: A day, the period from sunrise to sunset. Festus Φῆστος (Phēstos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 5347: Festus. Of Latin derivation; festal; Phestus, a Roman. laid out ἀνέθετο (anetheto) Verb - Aorist Indicative Middle - 3rd Person Singular Strong's 394: From ana and the middle voice of tithemi; to set forth, i.e propound. Paul’s case Παῦλον (Paulon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular Strong's 3972: Paul, Paulus. Of Latin origin; Paulus, the name of a Roman and of an apostle. before the τῷ (tō) Article - Dative Masculine Singular Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. king: βασιλεῖ (basilei) Noun - Dative Masculine Singular Strong's 935: A king, ruler, but in some passages clearly to be translated: emperor. Probably from basis; a sovereign. “There is ἐστιν (estin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular Strong's 1510: I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. a certain τίς (tis) Interrogative / Indefinite Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 5100: Any one, some one, a certain one or thing. An enclitic indefinite pronoun; some or any person or object. man Ἀνήρ (Anēr) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 435: A male human being; a man, husband. A primary word; a man. [whom] ὑπὸ (hypo) Preposition Strong's 5259: A primary preposition; under, i.e. of place, or with verbs; of place (underneath) or where (below) or time (when). Felix Φήλικος (Phēlikos) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular Strong's 5344: Of Latin origin; happy; Phelix, a Roman. left καταλελειμμένος (kataleleimmenos) Verb - Perfect Participle Middle or Passive - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 2641: From kata and leipo; to leave down, i.e. Behind; by implication, to abandon, have remaining. in prison. δέσμιος (desmios) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 1198: One bound, a prisoner. From desmon; a captive. Links Acts 25:14 NIVActs 25:14 NLT Acts 25:14 ESV Acts 25:14 NASB Acts 25:14 KJV Acts 25:14 BibleApps.com Acts 25:14 Biblia Paralela Acts 25:14 Chinese Bible Acts 25:14 French Bible Acts 25:14 Catholic Bible NT Apostles: Acts 25:14 As he stayed there many days Festus (Acts of the Apostles Ac) |
    |