◄ Acts 25 ►
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Paul’s Trial before Festus 1Three days after his arrival in the province, Festus went up from Caesarea to Jerusalem, 2where the chief priests and Jewish leaders presented their case against Paul. They urged Festus 3to grant them a concession against Paul by summoning him to Jerusalem, because they were preparing an ambush to kill him along the way. 4But Festus replied, “Paul is being held in Caesarea, and I myself am going there soon. 5So if this man has done anything wrong, let some of your leaders come down with me and accuse him there.” 6After spending no more than eight or ten days with them, Festus went down to Caesarea. The next day he sat on the judgment seat and ordered that Paul be brought in. 7When Paul arrived, the Jews who had come down from Jerusalem stood around him, bringing many serious charges that they could not prove. 8Then Paul made his defense: “I have committed no offense against the law of the Jews or against the temple or against Caesar.” 9But Festus, wishing to do the Jews a favor, said to Paul, “Are you willing to go up to Jerusalem to stand trial before me on these charges?” Paul Appeals to Caesar 10Paul replied, “I am standing before the judgment seat of Caesar, where I ought to be tried. I have done nothing wrong to the Jews, as you yourself know very well. 11If, however, I am guilty of anything worthy of death, I do not refuse to die. But if there is no truth to their accusations against me, no one has the right to hand me over to them. I appeal to Caesar!” 12Then Festus conferred with his council and replied, “You have appealed to Caesar. To Caesar you will go!” Festus Consults Agrippa 13After 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. 16I told them that it is not the Roman custom to hand a man over before he has had an opportunity to face his accusers and defend himself against their charges. 17So when they came here with me, I did not delay. The next day I sat on the judgment seat and ordered that the man be brought in. 18But when his accusers rose to speak, they did not charge him with any of the crimes I had expected. 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.” 22Then Agrippa said to Festus, “I would like to hear this man myself.” “Tomorrow you will hear him,” Festus declared. Paul before Agrippa and Bernice 23The next day Agrippa and Bernice came with great pomp and entered the auditorium, along with the commanders and leading men of the city. And Festus ordered that Paul be brought in. 24Then Festus said, “King Agrippa and all who are present with us, you see this man. The whole Jewish community has petitioned me about him, both here and in Jerusalem, crying out that he ought not to live any longer. 25But I found he had done nothing worthy of death, and since he has now appealed to the Emperor, I decided to send him. 26I have nothing definite to write to our sovereign about him. Therefore I have brought him before all of you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that after this inquiry I may have something to write. 27For it seems unreasonable to me to send on a prisoner without specifying the charges against him.” Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Acts 25 Summary Paul's Trial before Festus Verses 1–5 – Festus Faces Lingering Charges Three days after taking office, Governor Festus goes from Caesarea to Jerusalem. The chief priests and leading Jews press him to transfer Paul so they can set an ambush. Festus refuses, insisting that the accusers come to Caesarea and present their case. Verses 6–8 – A Quick Hearing, No Evidence Back in Caesarea, Festus convenes court. The Jews lay serious accusations, but Paul declares, “I have committed no offense against the law of the Jews or against the temple or against Caesar.” No proof is produced. Verses 9–12 – Paul Appeals to Caesar Festus, wanting Jewish favor, suggests moving the trial to Jerusalem. Paul answers, “I stand at Caesar’s tribunal… I appeal to Caesar!” Festus confers with his council and grants the appeal. Verses 13–22 – Agrippa II and Bernice Arrive King Agrippa II and his sister Bernice visit Festus. The governor explains Paul’s case: “I found he had done nothing worthy of death. He appealed to the Emperor, so I must send him.” Agrippa expresses interest in hearing Paul himself. Verses 23–27 – Royal Audience Sets the Stage The next day the court is filled with grandeur—tribunes, leading men, Agrippa and Bernice. Festus admits he has “nothing definite to write” to Rome about Paul’s charges and hopes Agrippa’s hearing will clarify the report. Acts 25 sees Paul facing new trials and tribulations. As he stands before Festus and then King Agrippa, we witness his steadfast commitment to truth and justice. The chapter reveals how God can utilize the intricacies of legal and political systems to ensure the spread of the Gospel. Political Background: A New Governor Under Pressure Portius Festus replaced Felix around AD 59. Felix’s misrule left tensions high (Acts 24:27), so Festus pursues early goodwill with Jerusalem’s leaders. Historical sources (Josephus, Antiquities 20.8.9) confirm Festus’s brief but energetic governorship, marked by attempts to curb banditry and defuse religious unrest. Roman Legal Procedure and a Citizen’s Right Paul’s “I appeal to Caesar” (25:11) invokes provocatio ad Caesarem, the legal privilege protecting Roman citizens from provincial injustice. Similar assertions of citizenship appear in Acts 16:37–39 and 22:25–29. By law, Festus must forward Paul, a costly and time-consuming task, explaining his frustration: “I have nothing certain to write to my Lord about him” (25:26). Jewish Leaders: Persistent Opposition The plot to kill Paul echoes the earlier vow of more than forty conspirators (Acts 23:12–15). Their zeal mirrors prior hostility toward Jesus (Luke 22:2). The leaders’ readiness to bend legal norms reveals the depth of their resistance to the gospel. King Agrippa II and Bernice: The Last of the Herods • Agrippa II, son of Herod Agrippa I (Acts 12), great-grandson of Herod the Great (Matthew 2). • Bernice, his sister, often accompanied him; gossip about their relationship circulated in Roman circles (Suetonius, Lives, “Titus” 7). Agrippa governed territories northeast of Galilee and held authority over the temple treasury and high-priestly vestments, making him an expert on Jewish religious matters. Caesarea Maritima: Archaeological Notes • Built by Herod the Great; harbor Sebastos, palaces, and an amphitheater still visible. • The Praetorium, likely Paul’s place of confinement and hearing, has been identified by a stone inscription naming Pontius Pilate—corroborating New Testament data. • Mosaic floors and fresco fragments show the luxury setting that contrasted with Paul’s chains (Acts 25:14). Paul’s Appeal Fulfills Earlier Promises • Acts 9:15—Paul is “a chosen vessel… to carry My name before Gentiles and kings.” • Acts 23:11—“Take courage, Paul; as you have testified about Me in Jerusalem, so also you must testify in Rome.” The legal path through Festus and Agrippa places Paul on course to proclaim Christ in the heart of the empire. Festus’ Dilemma: Justice vs. Politics • Festus knows Paul is innocent (25:25), echoing Pilate’s verdict on Jesus (Luke 23:4). • Political expediency tempts him to satisfy influential constituents—a timeless struggle for leaders. • God uses Festus’s vacillation to propel Paul toward Rome, illustrating Proverbs 21:1: “The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD.” Parallel Hearings: Jesus and Paul • Both face Jewish accusations before Roman governors (Luke 23; Acts 25). • Both are declared guiltless but not released. • Both move toward fulfillment of divine purpose through earthly courts. Archaeological and Historical Corroboration of Legal Titles Inscriptions unearthed in Rome and Asia Minor confirm “Augustus” as the formal address to Nero (25:21). The term “tribunal” (bēma) appears on excavated pavement in Corinth, matching Luke’s vocabulary (Acts 18:12). Key Themes for Believers Today • God’s plan can weave through flawed systems; injustice cannot derail divine promises. • Knowing one’s rights is compatible with trusting God—Paul uses legal appeal yet rests in providence. • Courage before intimidating audiences—Paul stands unfazed amid governors, kings, and military brass, modeling 2 Timothy 1:7. Scripture Connections for Further Study • Daniel 6—Legal plotting against Daniel parallels the ambush plan against Paul. • Psalm 2—Earthly rulers gather, yet God’s purpose stands. • Philippians 1:12–13—Paul later reflects that his “chains in Christ” advanced the gospel, a reality that began with Acts 25. Closing Insight Acts 25 is less about courtroom drama and more about a sovereign God steering a faithful servant through political maze and human opposition toward Rome, where the message of Jesus will reach the highest echelons of power. Connections to Additional Scriptures Romans 8:28 This verse reassures us that God works all things for the good of those who love Him, a truth evident in Paul's trials. 2 Timothy 4:7-8 Paul's perseverance and faithfulness are echoed in his later writings, where he speaks of fighting the good fight and finishing the race. Psalm 37:5-6 Encourages believers to commit their way to the Lord and trust in Him, knowing He will bring forth righteousness. Teaching Points Paul's Unyielding Faith Despite being imprisoned and facing false accusations, Paul remains steadfast in his faith, trusting in God's plan for his life. Acts 25:11 shows Paul's willingness to face death if he is guilty, but he knows he has done no wrong. The Role of Roman Authority The chapter illustrates the complexities of Roman legal proceedings and the political maneuvering of leaders like Festus and Agrippa. Acts 25:9 reveals Festus's desire to please the Jews, highlighting the political pressures at play. Divine Providence God's sovereignty is evident as He uses Paul's trials to further the Gospel. Acts 25:12 marks a pivotal moment where Paul appeals to Caesar, setting the stage for his journey to Rome, which aligns with God's promise in Acts 23:11. The Power of Testimony Paul's defense before Festus and Agrippa serves as a powerful testimony of his faith and the truth of the Gospel. Acts 25:19 shows how Paul consistently points to the resurrection of Jesus as the central issue. Practical Applications Trust in God's Sovereignty Like Paul, we can trust that God is in control, even when circumstances seem unjust or uncertain. Stand Firm in Faith We are called to remain steadfast in our beliefs, regardless of external pressures or false accusations. Use Opportunities to Witness Every situation, even trials, can be an opportunity to share our faith and testify to the truth of the Gospel. Seek Justice with Integrity While navigating human systems of justice, we should maintain integrity and rely on God's ultimate justice. People 1. Festus Porcius Festus was the Roman governor of Judea who succeeded Felix. He is described as someone who wanted to do the Jews a favor, as seen in Acts 25:9: "But Festus, wanting to do the Jews a favor, said to Paul, 'Are you willing to go up to Jerusalem to stand trial before me on these charges?'" 2. Paul The Apostle Paul is the central figure in this chapter, as he is on trial. He appeals to Caesar, asserting his right as a Roman citizen, as noted in Acts 25:11: "If, however, I am guilty of doing anything deserving of death, I do not refuse to die. But if there is nothing to their charges against me, no one has the right to hand me over to them. I appeal to Caesar!" 3. The Jews The Jewish leaders and accusers are mentioned collectively. They brought charges against Paul, seeking to have him tried in Jerusalem, as indicated in Acts 25:2-3: "where the chief priests and Jewish leaders presented their charges against Paul. They urged Festus to grant them a concession against Paul by summoning him to Jerusalem, because they were preparing an ambush to kill him along the way." 4. Agrippa King Herod Agrippa II, who was the ruler of the region, is introduced later in the chapter. Festus discusses Paul's case with him, as seen in Acts 25:13: "A few days later King Agrippa and Bernice came to Caesarea to pay their respects to Festus." 5. Bernice Bernice, the sister of King Agrippa II, accompanies him to Caesarea. She is mentioned alongside Agrippa in Acts 25:13. Places 1. Caesarea Acts 25:1: "Three days after his arrival in the province, Festus went up from Caesarea to Jerusalem." Caesarea was a significant Roman port city on the Mediterranean coast, serving as the administrative center of the Roman province of Judea. It was named in honor of Caesar Augustus and was known for its grand architecture, including a large harbor, theater, and aqueducts. 2. Jerusalem Acts 25:1: "Three days after his arrival in the province, Festus went up from Caesarea to Jerusalem." Jerusalem is the historic and religious capital of Israel, central to Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions. In the context of Acts 25, it was the location where Jewish leaders were based and where they sought to bring charges against Paul. 3. Rome Acts 25:11: "If, however, I am guilty of anything deserving death, I do not refuse to die. But if there is nothing to their accusations against me, no one can hand me over to them. I appeal to Caesar!" Rome, the capital of the Roman Empire, was the ultimate seat of political power. Paul's appeal to Caesar meant that he was requesting a trial in Rome, under the jurisdiction of the emperor, which was a right of Roman citizens. Events 1. Festus Succeeds Felix Festus arrives in the province and takes over as governor, succeeding Felix. This transition of power is significant as it sets the stage for Paul's trial. The Greek term "διάδοχος" (diadochos) implies a successor or one who takes over a position. 2. Jewish Leaders' Accusation Against Paul The Jewish leaders present their case against Paul to Festus, seeking to have him transferred to Jerusalem. They plan to ambush and kill him on the way. The Greek word "κατηγορέω" (katēgoreō) is used for "accuse," indicating a formal legal accusation. 3. Festus' Response to the Jewish Leaders Festus responds by inviting the Jewish leaders to come to Caesarea to present their charges against Paul, showing his intention to follow Roman legal procedures. The Greek "ἀποκρίνομαι" (apokrinomai) means to answer or respond, indicating Festus' official reply. 4. Paul's Defense Before Festus Paul defends himself against the accusations, asserting his innocence regarding offenses against Jewish law, the temple, or Caesar. The Greek "ἀπολογία" (apologia) refers to a formal defense or justification. 5. Paul Appeals to Caesar When Festus, wishing to do the Jews a favor, asks Paul if he is willing to go to Jerusalem for trial, Paul appeals to Caesar. This appeal is a legal right of Roman citizens, and the Greek "καίσαρα ἐπικαλοῦμαι" (Kaisara epikaloumai) means "I appeal to Caesar." 6. Festus Confers with His Council Festus confers with his council and agrees to send Paul to Caesar, acknowledging Paul's right to appeal. The Greek "συμβούλιον" (symboulion) refers to a council or advisory body. 7. King Agrippa and Bernice Visit Festus King Agrippa and Bernice visit Festus in Caesarea. Festus discusses Paul's case with Agrippa, seeking his input. The Greek "ἐπισκέπτομαι" (episkeptomai) means to visit or inspect, indicating a formal visit. 8. Festus Explains Paul's Situation to Agrippa Festus explains the situation to Agrippa, highlighting the lack of evidence against Paul and the perplexity of the charges. The Greek "ἀπορία" (aporia) suggests a state of puzzlement or doubt. 9. Agrippa Expresses Interest in Hearing Paul Agrippa expresses a desire to hear Paul himself, setting the stage for the subsequent hearing. The Greek "ἀκούω" (akouō) means to hear or listen, indicating Agrippa's interest in understanding the matter personally. Lessons from Acts 25 1. Stand Firm in Your Faith In Acts 25, we see Paul standing firm in his faith despite facing false accusations and potential danger. His unwavering commitment to the truth is a powerful reminder for us to hold fast to our beliefs, even when challenged. As Paul declared, "I have done nothing wrong against the Jewish law or against the temple or against Caesar" (Acts 25:8). Let this inspire you to remain steadfast in your convictions, trusting that God is with you. 2. Trust in God's Timing Paul's journey through trials and imprisonment teaches us the importance of trusting in God's perfect timing. Although it may have seemed like a delay, God's plan was unfolding precisely as intended. Remember, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11). Patience and faith go hand in hand. 3. Use Your Rights Wisely Paul's appeal to Caesar in Acts 25:11 demonstrates the importance of using the rights and resources available to us. He wisely navigated the legal system to further his mission. In our lives, we should be aware of the tools and opportunities God provides, using them to advance His kingdom and our purpose. 4. Be Prepared to Defend Your Beliefs Paul's readiness to defend his faith before Festus and Agrippa is a call for us to be prepared to explain our beliefs. As Peter encourages, "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have" (1 Peter 3:15). Equip yourself with knowledge and understanding to share your faith confidently. 5. God's Purpose Prevails Despite the opposition Paul faced, God's purpose for him prevailed. Acts 25 reminds us that no matter the obstacles, God's plans cannot be thwarted. "The LORD Almighty has sworn, 'Surely, as I have planned, so it will be, and as I have purposed, so it will happen'" (Isaiah 14:24). Trust in His sovereignty over your life. 6. Witness Through Adversity Paul's trials provided him with a platform to witness to influential leaders. Our own challenges can become opportunities to share the gospel. "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance" (James 1:2-3). Let your light shine, even in difficult times. 7. Seek Wisdom in Leadership Festus sought counsel from King Agrippa, showing the value of seeking wisdom from others. In our lives, seeking godly counsel can provide clarity and guidance. "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed" (Proverbs 15:22). Surround yourself with wise and faithful mentors. 8. God's Protection is Unfailing Throughout Acts 25, God's protection over Paul is evident. Despite the threats against him, God kept him safe. "The LORD will keep you from all harm—He will watch over your life" (Psalm 121:7). Rest in the assurance that God is your protector. 9. Be a Person of Integrity Paul's integrity shone through as he faced his accusers. His honest and upright character was evident to all. "The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity" (Proverbs 11:3). Strive to live a life of integrity, reflecting Christ in all you do. 10. God's Plan is Bigger Than Our Understanding Finally, Acts 25 reminds us that God's plan is often beyond our comprehension. Paul's journey to Rome was part of a greater purpose that he couldn't fully see. "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the LORD" (Isaiah 55:8). Trust in His greater plan, knowing that He is working all things for good. Topics 1. Paul's Trial Before Festus In Acts 25, Paul is brought before the Roman governor Festus. The Jewish leaders present their charges against Paul, but they cannot prove them. Festus, seeking to do the Jews a favor, asks Paul if he is willing to go to Jerusalem for trial. Paul, asserting his rights as a Roman citizen, appeals to Caesar. This appeal is significant as it reflects the Greek term "Καίσαρα" (Kaisara), meaning Caesar, indicating Paul's strategic use of his Roman citizenship. 2. Festus Consults King Agrippa Festus discusses Paul's case with King Agrippa, seeking advice on how to handle the situation. Festus explains that the accusations against Paul are not what he expected, as they pertain to religious disputes and a certain "Jesus, who had died, but whom Paul affirmed to be alive" (Acts 25:19). The Greek term "ζῶντα" (zōnta) for "alive" emphasizes the core Christian belief in the resurrection. 3. Paul's Defense Before Agrippa Although not fully detailed in Acts 25, the chapter sets the stage for Paul's defense before Agrippa. Festus arranges for Agrippa to hear Paul, highlighting the importance of Paul's testimony about his faith and the resurrection of Jesus. This interaction underscores the Greek concept of "ἀπολογία" (apologia), meaning a formal defense, which Paul is prepared to give regarding his beliefs and actions. Themes 1. Divine Providence in Legal Proceedings Acts 25 highlights God's sovereignty in the legal processes surrounding Paul. Despite human intentions, God's plan for Paul to testify in Rome is being fulfilled. The Greek term "πρόνοια" (pronoia) reflects God's providential care, as seen in how events unfold to protect Paul and advance the Gospel. 2. The Integrity of Christian Witness Paul maintains his integrity and faithfulness to the Gospel despite false accusations. In Acts 25:8, Paul states, "I have committed no offense against the law of the Jews, or against the temple, or against Caesar." This theme underscores the importance of a blameless Christian witness, rooted in the Greek word "ἀναίτιος" (anaitios), meaning "blameless" or "without fault." 3. The Corruption of Human Justice The chapter reveals the flaws in human justice systems, as seen in Festus's willingness to please the Jews rather than seek true justice (Acts 25:9). The Greek word "χάρις" (charis), often translated as "favor," is used here to describe Festus's desire to gain favor with the Jewish leaders, highlighting the theme of political expediency over justice. 4. The Right of Appeal and Roman Citizenship Paul's appeal to Caesar in Acts 25:11 demonstrates the rights afforded to Roman citizens and God's use of these rights to further His purposes. The Greek term "ἔφεσις" (ephesis), meaning "appeal," signifies the legal right Paul exercises, which ultimately aligns with God's plan for him to witness in Rome. 5. The Role of Divine Purpose in Human Affairs Throughout Acts 25, the unfolding events reflect a divine purpose that transcends human intentions. In Acts 25:12, Festus confers with his council and responds, "To Caesar you have appealed; to Caesar you will go!" This decision, while political, aligns with God's overarching plan, emphasizing the theme of divine orchestration in human affairs. Prayer Points Pray for strength and courage to stand firm in faith during trials and challenges. Ask for wisdom and discernment in navigating situations where justice seems elusive. Seek opportunities to share the Gospel and testify to God's goodness, even in difficult circumstances. Pray for trust in God's sovereignty and His perfect timing in all aspects of life. Answering Tough Questions 1. How historically credible is the swift transfer of Paul’s case from one Roman governor to another in Acts 25:1–12, given the bureaucracy of Roman legal proceedings? 2. 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? 3. Is there any archaeological or historical evidence that supports or challenges the presence and actions of King Agrippa II in Acts 25:13–22? 4. 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? 5. 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? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Paul's appeal to Caesar highlight the significance of knowing and standing up for one's rights? 2. What can we learn from the way Paul handles the ongoing plots against him? 3. How does Festus's confusion over religious matters reflect common misunderstandings about the Christian faith? 4. In what ways does Paul’s trial before Festus mirror the trials and tribulations that believers may face today? 5. How does Paul's journey through the judicial system model endurance and patience in the face of adversity? 6. How does this chapter reflect the tension between politics and justice? 7. What does Festus's conversation with King Agrippa reveal about the intersection of faith and politics? 8. How can we apply Paul's courage and commitment to truth when we face trials or opposition? 9. What does the introduction to King Agrippa teach us about God's providence and the spread of the Gospel? 10. How does this chapter challenge our understanding of God's sovereignty in the midst of worldly systems? 11. What does this chapter teach us about staying true to our convictions, regardless of our circumstances? 12. How does the complexity of Paul's trial before Festus and Agrippa reflect the difficulties Christians may face in explaining their faith? 13. How does the predicament of Festus resonate with the struggle of many today to understand Christianity? 14. What does Paul's situation reveal about the importance of the resurrection in Christian theology? 15. In what ways does Acts 25 challenge us to view our adversities as opportunities? 16. How can Paul's perseverance inspire us to stay committed to our faith in times of personal trials? 17. What does the anticipation of Paul’s defense before King Agrippa teach us about trusting in God's plan? 18. How does Paul’s handling of his trials reflect on the call for Christians to be 'in' the world, but not 'of' the world? 19. How can we see God's sovereignty in the way Paul's case is escalated to higher Roman authorities? 20. How can we use our own positions, wherever they may be, to spread the Gospel as Paul did in his trial? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions