Acts 24:22-27 And when Felix heard these things, having more perfect knowledge of that way, he deferred them, and said… I. THE CORRUPT JUDGE. Selling justice for bribes, delaying sentence in hope of gain, either from the Jews or from Paul. The influence of Christianity in purifying courts of law. Judge Hale. Room for improvement still as Christian equality banishes all distinctions between rich and poor. Justice is still too dear. II. THE MAN WITH SEARED CONSCIENCE. In contrast with him who exercises himself to have a conscience void of offence. The light of education, of contact with Judaism through Drusilla, of knowledge of facts at Caesarea, all darkened by sensuality, avarice, worldly power, constant trifling with conscience. He could tremble at truth, but even while trembling was ready to sell it for his own vicious pleasures. He felt its force, but steadfastly resisted it, and even sent again and again for Paul, in hope to make gain out of him. III. THE TRIFLER WITH OPPORTUNITY. Preaching may move the feelings without changing the heart. Behind the procrastination there is generally a moral corruption hidden. The opportunities which are trifled with harden the heart and hasten the judgment. Felix knew not the time of his visitation. Judgment fell on him, and the Jews, to whose wickedness he pandered, became his accusers before Caesar. No season is more convenient than the present, when the voice of God says, "Repent!" - R. Parallel Verses KJV: And when Felix heard these things, having more perfect knowledge of that way, he deferred them, and said, When Lysias the chief captain shall come down, I will know the uttermost of your matter. |
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