Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version I was at a loss how to investigate such matters; so I asked if he would be willing to go to Jerusalem and stand trial there on these charges. New Living Translation I was at a loss to know how to investigate these things, so I asked him whether he would be willing to stand trial on these charges in Jerusalem. English Standard Version Being at a loss how to investigate these questions, I asked whether he wanted to go to Jerusalem and be tried there regarding them. Berean Standard Bible Since I was at a loss as to how to investigate these matters, I asked if he was willing to go to Jerusalem and be tried there on these charges. Berean Literal Bible Now I, being perplexed concerning this inquiry, was asking if he was willing to go to Jerusalem and there to be judged concerning these things. King James Bible And because I doubted of such manner of questions, I asked him whether he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these matters. New King James Version And because I was uncertain of such questions, I asked whether he was willing to go to Jerusalem and there be judged concerning these matters. New American Standard Bible And being at a loss how to investigate such matters, I asked whether he was willing to go to Jerusalem and stand trial there on these matters. NASB 1995 “Being at a loss how to investigate such matters, I asked whether he was willing to go to Jerusalem and there stand trial on these matters. NASB 1977 “And being at a loss how to investigate such matters, I asked whether he was willing to go to Jerusalem and there stand trial on these matters. Legacy Standard Bible And being perplexed about how to investigate such matters, I was asking whether he was willing to go to Jerusalem and there to be tried on these matters. Amplified Bible And I, being at a loss as to how to investigate these things, asked whether he was willing to go to Jerusalem and be tried there regarding these matters. Berean Annotated Bible Since I was at a loss as to how to investigate these matters, I asked if he was willing to go to Jerusalem (city of peace) and be tried there on these charges. Christian Standard Bible Since I was at a loss in a dispute over such things, I asked him if he wanted to go to Jerusalem and be tried there regarding these matters. Holman Christian Standard Bible Since I was at a loss in a dispute over such things, I asked him if he wished to go to Jerusalem and be tried there concerning these matters. American Standard Version And I, being perplexed how to inquire concerning these things, asked whether he would go to Jerusalem and there be judged of these matters. Contemporary English Version Since I did not know how to find out the truth about all this, I asked Paul if he would be willing to go to Jerusalem and be put on trial there. English Revised Version And I, being perplexed how to inquire concerning these things, asked whether he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these matters. GOD'S WORD® Translation Their debate about these things left me puzzled. So I asked Paul if he would like to go to Jerusalem to have his case heard there. Good News Translation I was undecided about how I could get information on these matters, so I asked Paul if he would be willing to go to Jerusalem and be tried there on these charges. International Standard Version I was puzzled how I should investigate such matters, so I asked if he would like to go to Jerusalem and be tried there for these things. NET Bible Because I was at a loss how I could investigate these matters, I asked if he were willing to go to Jerusalem and be tried there on these charges. New Heart English Bible Being perplexed how to inquire concerning these things, I asked whether he was willing to go to Jerusalem and there be judged concerning these matters. Webster's Bible Translation And because I doubted of such manner of questions, I asked him whether he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged concerning these matters. Weymouth New Testament I was at a loss how to investigate such questions, and asked Paul whether he would care to go to Jerusalem and there stand his trial on these matters. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleSince I was at a loss as to how to investigate this matter, I asked if he was willing to go to Jerusalem and be tried there on these charges. World English Bible Being perplexed how to inquire concerning these things, I asked whether he was willing to go to Jerusalem and there be judged concerning these matters. Literal Translations Literal Standard Versionand I, doubting in regard to the question concerning this, asked if he was willing to go on to Jerusalem, and to be judged there concerning these things— Berean Literal Bible Now I, being perplexed concerning this inquiry, was asking if he was willing to go to Jerusalem and there to be judged concerning these things. Young's Literal Translation and I, doubting in regard to the question concerning this, said, If he would wish to go on to Jerusalem, and there to be judged concerning these things -- Smith's Literal Translation And I doubting at the question concerting this, said, If he be willing to go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these things. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleI therefore being in a doubt of this manner of question, asked him whether he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these things. Catholic Public Domain Version Therefore, being in doubt about this kind of question, I asked him if he was willing go to Jerusalem and to be judged there about these things. New American Bible Since I was at a loss how to investigate this controversy, I asked if he were willing to go to Jerusalem and there stand trial on these charges. New Revised Standard Version Since I was at a loss how to investigate these questions, I asked whether he wished to go to Jerusalem and be tried there on these charges. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd because I was not well acquainted with their controversy, I said to Paul. Would you be willing to go to Jerusalem, and there be tried of these matters? Aramaic Bible in Plain English Because I was not certain about such inquiries, I said to Paulus, “Do you wish to go to Jerusalem, and be judged on these things there?” NT Translations Anderson New TestamentBut, being in doubt about the question concerning this man, I asked him if he would go up to Jerusalem, and there be judged with respect to these matters. Godbey New Testament And I, being at a loss as to the question concerning these things, asked him if he is willing to go to Jerusalem, and there to be judged concerning these things. Haweis New Testament But being in doubt respecting a question of this sort, I demanded if he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these things. Mace New Testament being at a loss how to determine such an affair, I ask'd him if he would go to Jerusalem, and take his tryal there. Weymouth New Testament I was at a loss how to investigate such questions, and asked Paul whether he would care to go to Jerusalem and there stand his trial on these matters. Worrell New Testament And, being perplexed in regard to the inquiry concerning these things, I asked whether he was willing to go to Jerusalem, and there be judged concerning these things. Worsley New Testament But I being in doubt as to the dispute concerning these matters, asked him, if he would go to Jerusalem, and there be tried concerning these things. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context Festus Consults King Agrippa…19They only had some contentions with him regarding their own religion and a certain Jesus who had died, but whom Paul affirmed to be alive. 20Since I was at a loss as to how to investigate these matters, I asked if he was willing to go to Jerusalem and be tried there on these charges. 21But when Paul appealed to be held over for the decision of the Emperor, I ordered that he be held until I could send him to Caesar.”… Cross References Since I was at a loss as to how to investigate these matters, Acts 23:29 I found that the accusation involved questions about their own law, but there was no charge worthy of death or imprisonment. Deuteronomy 19:18 The judges shall investigate thoroughly, and if the witness is proven to be a liar who has falsely accused his brother, John 7:51 “Does our law convict a man without first hearing from him to determine what he has done?” I asked if he was willing to go to Jerusalem Acts 21:13 Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” Acts 20:22-24 And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. / I only know that in town after town the Holy Spirit warns me that chains and afflictions await me. / But I consider my life of no value to me, if only I may finish my course and complete the ministry I have received from the Lord Jesus—the ministry of testifying to the good news of God’s grace. Acts 19:21 After these things had happened, Paul resolved in the Spirit to go to Jerusalem, passing through Macedonia and Achaia. “After I have been there,” he said, “I must see Rome as well.” and be tried there on these charges. John 18:29-31 So Pilate went out to them and asked, “What accusation are you bringing against this man?” / “If He were not a criminal,” they replied, “we would not have handed Him over to you.” / “You take Him and judge Him by your own law,” Pilate told them. “We are not permitted to execute anyone,” the Jews replied. Luke 23:14-15 and said to them, “You brought me this man as one who was inciting the people to rebellion. I have examined Him here in your presence and found Him not guilty of your charges against Him. / Neither has Herod, for he sent Him back to us. As you can see, He has done nothing deserving of death. Matthew 26:59-60 Now the chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were seeking false testimony against Jesus in order to put Him to death. / But they did not find any, though many false witnesses came forward. Finally two came forward Acts 26:32 And Agrippa said to Festus, “This man could have been released if he had not appealed to Caesar.” Acts 23:9 A great clamor arose, and some scribes from the party of the Pharisees got up and contended sharply, “We find nothing wrong with this man. What if a spirit or an angel has spoken to him?” Acts 24:19-20 who ought to appear before you and bring charges, if they have anything against me. / Otherwise, let these men state for themselves any crime they found in me when I stood before the Sanhedrin, Acts 26:31 On their way out, they said to one another, “This man has done nothing worthy of death or imprisonment.” Acts 28:18 They examined me and wanted to release me, because there was no basis for a death sentence against me. Acts 22:30 The next day the commander, wanting to learn the real reason Paul was accused by the Jews, released him and ordered the chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin to assemble. Then he brought Paul down and had him stand before them. Acts 24:6-8 and he even tried to desecrate the temple; so we seized him. / But the chief captain Lysias came upon us, and with great violence took him away out of our hands, / By examining him yourself, you will be able to learn the truth about all our charges against him.” Treasury of Scripture And because I doubted of such manner of questions, I asked him whether he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these matters. doubted of such manner of questions. Acts 25:9 But Festus, willing to do the Jews a pleasure, answered Paul, and said, Wilt thou go up to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these things before me? Jump to Previous Care Charges Discussion Doubted Doubting Enough Inquire Inquiry Investigate Jerusalem Judged Loss Manner Matters Paul Perplexed Question Questions Regard Regarding Stand Suggestion Trial Tried Whether Willing Wish WishedJump to Next Care Charges Discussion Doubted Doubting Enough Inquire Inquiry Investigate Jerusalem Judged Loss Manner Matters Paul Perplexed Question Questions Regard Regarding Stand Suggestion Trial Tried Whether Willing Wish WishedActs 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 I was at a loss as to how to investigate these matters This phrase reflects the Roman governor Festus's confusion and uncertainty in dealing with the accusations against Paul. The Roman legal system was known for its structured procedures, but Festus found himself in unfamiliar territory with the religious and theological disputes presented by the Jewish leaders. This highlights the complexity of the early Christian movement and its divergence from traditional Jewish beliefs. The phrase also underscores the tension between Roman law and Jewish customs, as Festus struggled to understand the intricacies of the accusations, which were deeply rooted in Jewish law and prophecy. I asked if he was willing to go to Jerusalem and be tried there on these charges Persons / Places / Events 1. PaulThe apostle who is on trial, accused by Jewish leaders of offenses against the Jewish law, the temple, and Caesar. 2. Festus The Roman governor who succeeded Felix and is presiding over Paul's trial. He is uncertain about how to handle the charges against Paul. 3. Jerusalem The city where the Jewish leaders want Paul to be tried, hoping to ambush and kill him on the way. 4. Caesarea The location where Paul is being held and where Festus is conducting the trial. 5. Jewish Leaders The accusers of Paul, seeking to have him tried in Jerusalem with the intent of plotting against him. Teaching Points Discernment in LeadershipFestus's uncertainty ("at a loss") highlights the need for wisdom and discernment in leadership, especially when dealing with complex issues. God's Sovereignty in Trials Despite human plots and plans, God's purpose prevails. Paul's journey to Rome is part of God's plan for him to testify there. Courage in the Face of Opposition Paul remains steadfast and courageous, trusting in God's protection and purpose, even when facing potential danger. The Importance of Legal Rights Paul uses his rights as a Roman citizen to appeal to Caesar, teaching us the importance of understanding and utilizing our rights within legal systems. Faithfulness in Witness Paul's unwavering commitment to his mission, despite trials, serves as an example of faithfulness in witnessing for Christ. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Acts 25:20?2. How does Acts 25:20 illustrate God's sovereignty in legal and spiritual matters? 3. What can we learn from Festus's dilemma about decision-making in complex situations? 4. How does Acts 25:20 connect to Romans 13:1 about authority and governance? 5. How should Christians respond when faced with unclear or difficult decisions today? 6. What role does seeking wise counsel play in resolving dilemmas like Festus's? 7. Why did Paul appeal to Caesar in Acts 25:20? 8. How does Acts 25:20 reflect on the justice system of the time? 9. What does Acts 25:20 reveal about Roman authority over Jewish leaders? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Acts 25? 11. 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? 12. Why does Festus, mentioned in Acts 25:9-11, appear to rely so heavily on the Jewish leaders' accusations instead of conducting a thorough investigation himself? 13. Is there any archaeological or historical evidence that supports or challenges the presence and actions of King Agrippa II in Acts 25:13-22? 14. What events transpired during the crucifixion of Jesus? What Does Acts 25:20 Mean Since I was at a loss as to how to investigate these mattersFestus, newly installed as governor, confesses his inability to sort out the religious and political accusations the Jewish leaders are hurling at Paul (Acts 25:7). • He recognizes that the dispute centers on “questions about their own religion and about a certain Jesus, who had died, but whom Paul affirmed to be alive” (Acts 25:19). • Like Lysias before him (Acts 23:29; 24:22), Festus sees no clear violation of Roman law. • His admission underscores God’s providence: Roman officials repeatedly declare Paul innocent, preserving the apostle for further witness (Luke 21:12–13; Acts 26:31–32). I asked if he was willing to go to Jerusalem Unable to decipher the theological nuances, Festus proposes a location change, hoping to satisfy the Sanhedrin while retaining Roman oversight. • Jerusalem would placate local leaders (Acts 25:2–3), yet still allow Festus to preside. • By posing the question to Paul, Festus appears fair, honoring Paul’s Roman citizenship (Acts 22:25–29). • God had already promised Paul he would testify in Rome (Acts 23:11), so this offer becomes the moment that propels Paul to claim his right of appeal (Acts 25:11). and be tried there on these charges Festus envisions a formal trial in Jerusalem to clarify the allegations. • The “charges” remain vague—blasphemy, sedition, temple defilement—none proven (Acts 24:13; 25:18). • Paul perceives the hidden plot for his assassination en route (Acts 25:3) and responds decisively: “I appeal to Caesar!” (Acts 25:11). • The governor’s plan collapses, yet God’s plan advances: the gospel will reach Rome under imperial protection (Acts 27:24; 28:30–31). summary Festus’ confession of confusion, his offer of a Jerusalem trial, and Paul’s subsequent appeal reveal a sovereign pattern: earthly courts cannot pin guilt on God’s servant, and every legal twist becomes a highway for the gospel. (20) Because I doubted of such manner of questions.--Better, I, being perplexed as to the inquiry about these things. The word implies more than mere doubt, and his perplexity is his justification for bringing the matter before a prince who, being a Jew, might be a better judge of the point at issue.Verse 20. - I, being perplexed how to inquire concerning these things, asked for because I doubted of such manner of questions, I asked him,, A.V. and T.R. I, being perplexed, etc. The ζήτησις spoken of by Festus does not mean his own judicial inquiry, though it is so used once in Polybius (6. 16:2), but the disputes or discussions on such subjects as the Resurrection, etc. (John 3:25; 1 Timothy 1:4; 1 Timothy 6:4; 2 Timothy 2:23; Titus 3:9), in which Festus felt himself at a loss. The A.V., therefore, expresses the sense more nearly than the R.V. The T.R. too, which inserts εἰς before τὴν περὶ τούτων ζήτησιν, is preferable to the R.T., because ἀποροῦμαι does not govern an accusative case, but is almost always followed by a preposition. Those who follow the reading of the T.R., περὶ τούτου, either understand πράγματος or refer τούτου to Paul or to Jesus.Parallel Commentaries ... Greek [Since]δὲ (de) Conjunction Strong's 1161: A primary particle; but, and, etc. I ἐγὼ (egō) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Nominative 1st Person Singular Strong's 1473: I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. was at a loss Ἀπορούμενος (Aporoumenos) Verb - Present Participle Middle - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 639: From a compound of a and the base of poreuomai; to have no way out, i.e. Be at a loss. as to περὶ (peri) Preposition Strong's 4012: From the base of peran; properly, through, i.e. Around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time. how to investigate ζήτησιν (zētēsin) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular Strong's 2214: A question, debate, controversy; a seeking, search. From zeteo; a searching, i.e. A dispute or its theme. these [matters], τούτων (toutōn) Demonstrative Pronoun - Genitive Neuter Plural Strong's 3778: This; he, she, it. I asked ἔλεγον (elegon) Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular Strong's 2036: Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say. if εἰ (ei) Conjunction Strong's 1487: If. A primary particle of conditionality; if, whether, that, etc. he was willing βούλοιτο (bouloito) Verb - Present Optative Middle or Passive - 3rd Person Singular Strong's 1014: To will, intend, desire, wish. Middle voice of a primary verb; to 'will, ' i.e. be willing. to go πορεύεσθαι (poreuesthai) Verb - Present Infinitive Middle or Passive Strong's 4198: To travel, journey, go, die. to εἰς (eis) Preposition Strong's 1519: A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases. Jerusalem Ἱεροσόλυμα (Hierosolyma) Noun - Accusative Neuter Plural Strong's 2414: The Greek form of the Hebrew name: Jerusalem. Of Hebrew origin; Hierosolyma and κἀκεῖ (kakei) Conjunction Strong's 2546: And there, and yonder, there also. From kai and ekei; likewise in that place. be tried {there} κρίνεσθαι (krinesthai) Verb - Present Infinitive Middle or Passive Strong's 2919: Properly, to distinguish, i.e. Decide; by implication, to try, condemn, punish. on περὶ (peri) Preposition Strong's 4012: From the base of peran; properly, through, i.e. Around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time. these [charges]. τούτων (toutōn) Demonstrative Pronoun - Genitive Neuter Plural Strong's 3778: This; he, she, it. Links Acts 25:20 NIVActs 25:20 NLT Acts 25:20 ESV Acts 25:20 NASB Acts 25:20 KJV Acts 25:20 BibleApps.com Acts 25:20 Biblia Paralela Acts 25:20 Chinese Bible Acts 25:20 French Bible Acts 25:20 Catholic Bible NT Apostles: Acts 25:20 Being perplexed how to inquire concerning these (Acts of the Apostles Ac) |
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