◄ Acts 24 ►
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Tertullus Prosecutes Paul 1Five days later the high priest Ananias came down with some elders and a lawyera named Tertullus, who presented to the governor their case against Paul. 2When Paul had been called in, Tertullus opened the prosecution: “Because of you, we have enjoyed a lasting peace, and your foresight has brought improvements to this nation. 3In every way and everywhere, most excellent Felix, we acknowledge this with all gratitude. 4But in order not to delay you any further, I beg your indulgence to hear us briefly. 5We have found this man to be a pestilence, stirring up dissension among the Jews all over the world. He is a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes, 6and he even tried to desecrate the temple; so we seized him.b 8By examining him yourself, you will be able to learn the truth about all our charges against him.” 9The Jews concurred, asserting that these charges were true. Paul’s Defense to Felix 10When 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. 11You can verify for yourself that no more than twelve days ago I went up to Jerusalem to worship. 12Yet my accusers did not find me debating with anyone in the temple or riling up a crowd in the synagogues or in the city. 13Nor can they prove to you any of their charges against me. 14I do confess to you, however, that I worship the God of our fathers according to the Way, which they call a sect. I believe everything that is laid down by the Law and written in the Prophets, 15and I have the same hope in God that they themselves cherish, that there will be a resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked. 16In this hope, I strive always to maintain a clear conscience before God and man. 17After several years, then, I returned to Jerusalem to bring alms to my people and to present offerings. 18At the time they found me in the temple, I was ceremonially clean and was not inciting a crowd or an uproar. But there are some Jews from the province of Asiac 19who ought to appear before you and bring charges, if they have anything against me. 20Otherwise, let these men state for themselves any crime they found in me when I stood before the Sanhedrin,d 21unless it was this one thing I called out as I stood in their presence: ‘It is concerning the resurrection of the dead that I am on trial before you today.’” The Verdict Postponed 22Then Felix, who was well informed about the Way, adjourned the hearing and said, “When Lysias the commander comes, I will decide your case.” 23He ordered the centurion to keep Paul under guard, but to allow him some freedom and permit his friends to minister to his needs. 24After several days, Felix returned with his wife Drusilla, who was a Jewess. He sent for Paul and listened to him speak about faith in Christ Jesus. 25As Paul expounded on righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment, Felix became frightened and said, “You may go for now. When I find the time, I will call for you.” 26At the same time, he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe. So he sent for Paul frequently and talked with him. 27After two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus. And wishing to do the Jews a favor, Felix left Paul in prison. Footnotes: 1 a Or an orator 6 b TR includes and we would have judged him according to our law. 7But Lysias the commander came with great force and took him out of our hands, 8ordering his accusers to come before you. 18 c Literally from Asia; Asia was a Roman province in what is now western Turkey. 20 d Or the Council 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 24 Summary Tertullus Prosecutes Paul Verses 1–9 – Accusations Presented by Tertullus Five days after Paul’s transfer to Caesarea, the high priest Ananias, certain elders, and a skilled lawyer named Tertullus appear before Governor Felix. Tertullus flatters Felix and then levels three charges against Paul: stirring up riots among Jews across the empire, leading the sect of the Nazarenes, and attempting to desecrate the temple. The gathered Jews agree with these claims. Verses 10–21 – Paul’s Defense Before Felix Granted permission to speak, Paul respectfully answers each accusation. He notes the short time since arriving in Jerusalem, asserts that no one can prove unrest, and admits worshiping “the God of our fathers” according to “the Way.” He confesses his belief in “a resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked” and explains that his temple visit was for purification, not disturbance. Paul challenges his accusers to produce evidence, pointing out that only some Sanhedrin members heard him proclaim, “It is for the resurrection of the dead that I am on trial before you today.” Verses 22–23 – Felix Defers the Case Felix, well informed about “the Way,” postpones judgment until commander Lysias arrives. He orders a centurion to keep Paul in custody but to give him some freedom and allow friends to attend to his needs. Verses 24–27 – Felix Delays Despite Conviction Some days later Felix returns with his Jewish wife Drusilla and asks to hear Paul. Paul speaks about faith in Christ Jesus, righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment. Felix becomes frightened and dismisses Paul, promising to hear him later—while secretly hoping for a bribe. Over two years Paul remains confined; Felix is succeeded by Porcius Festus and, wanting favor with the Jews, Felix leaves Paul imprisoned. Acts 24 continues with Paul on trial before the Roman governor, Felix. As false accusations are raised against him, Paul counters them with a steadfast defense of his faith. In an extended stay, Paul speaks about faith in Christ and judgment, causing Felix to fear. Felix, hoping for a bribe, leaves Paul in prison, highlighting the prevalent corruption of the era. Historical Background: Caesarea and Governor Felix • Caesarea Maritima served as the Roman administrative center of Judea. Herod the Great’s deep-water harbor and palace made it a strategic hub. • Antonius Felix was a freed slave elevated by Emperor Claudius. Classical writers describe him as ambitious, harsh, and prone to bribe-taking—matching Luke’s depiction (24:26). • Drusilla, Felix’s wife, was the youngest daughter of Herod Agrippa I (Acts 12). At about sixteen she left her first husband to marry Felix. Her presence explains Felix’s interest in Jewish affairs. Legal Process Under Rome • Accusers had to present their case in person, which is why Ananias and the elders travel to Caesarea. • Charges included “stirring up riots” (a political crime), “sect leadership” (potentially illegal association), and “temple desecration” (a religious offense Rome allowed Jews to prosecute). • Paul’s claim of Roman citizenship (Acts 22:25-29) guaranteed a formal hearing before the governor. • Felix’s postponement kept peace with Jewish leaders but sidestepped a verdict that might anger Rome if Paul were punished without proof. Key Characters Tertullus – A professional orator; his flattery echoes Psalm 12:2 about “smooth lips.” Ananias – High priest known from Josephus as violent and greedy; later killed by Jewish patriots. Claudius Lysias – The commander whose letter (Acts 23:26-30) provided background for Felix. Porcius Festus – Succeeds Felix (Acts 24:27) and will handle Paul’s appeal to Caesar. Doctrinal Highlights Resurrection: Paul centers his defense on the shared Jewish hope—“that there will be a resurrection” (24:15). This mirrors Daniel 12:2 and is confirmed in 1 Corinthians 15. Conscience: Paul strives “to maintain a clear conscience before God and man” (24:16). Compare Hebrews 10:22 and 1 Peter 3:16. Faith, righteousness, self-control, judgment (24:25): These four themes outline the gospel’s moral demand and future accountability. Titus 2:11-13 echoes the same order—grace, godly living, hope. Archaeological Insights • Caesarea’s courtroom floor mosaics and Governor’s Praetorium foundations have been unearthed, placing Paul’s trial within known walls. • An inscription bearing “Pontius Pilate, prefect of Judea” discovered in 1961 shows Roman governors’ practice of commemorating public works—similar to Felix’s position. • Jewish purification pools (mikva’ot) near the Temple Mount illustrate Paul’s claim of ceremonial cleansing (21:26; 24:18). Connections to Other Scriptures Acts 9:15 – The Lord told Ananias (of Damascus) that Paul would stand before “kings” and “gentiles,” fulfilled here. Luke 21:12-15 – Jesus promised His followers words of wisdom in legal settings; Paul displays this. Psalm 2:1-2 – Nations rage and rulers plot; Tertullus’s courtroom aggression reflects this age-old hostility. 2 Timothy 4:16-17 – Paul later recalls that “the Lord stood with me and strengthened me” at a first defense—very likely Acts 24. Practical Applications • Factual integrity: Paul calmly states evidence, modeling truthful speech under pressure. • Respectful tone: He addresses Felix as “most excellent” yet refuses empty flattery. • Courage with powerful people: Paul speaks of judgment, knowing Felix’s moral flaws. • Patience in long trials: Two years in custody did not silence Paul’s mission; he keeps teaching (24:23). Timeline and Geography AD 57 – Paul arrested in Jerusalem at Pentecost. Late 57 – Transferred overnight to Caesarea. AD 57-59 – Two-year detention under Felix. Map check: Jerusalem to Antipatris (47 km), then Caesarea (63 km). Roman military roads enabled quick movement, confirming Acts 23:31-33. Phrase Study “The Way” (24:14, 22) – Early believers’ self-designation, also in Acts 9:2; 19:9. Implies a life path, not merely a creed. “Reasoned” (24:25) – Dialogued; Paul converses, not lectures, showing gospel engagement. Lessons from Felix’s Procrastination • Conviction without surrender leads to fear (24:25). • Delaying spiritual decisions often hardens the heart; Felix’s successor arrives before he decides. • Material motives (bribes) can cloud moral clarity (1 Timothy 6:10). Final Takeaway Acts 24 portrays a faithful witness under unfair charges. Paul’s steady hope in the resurrection, respectful defense, and unwavering proclamation of Jesus invite every reader to stand firm and speak truthfully, trusting God to work through every delay and courtroom. Connections to Additional Scriptures 1 Peter 3:15-16 But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who slander you may be put to shame by your good behavior in Christ. 2 Corinthians 1:12 For our boast is this: the testimony of our conscience, that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in our relations with you, in the holiness and sincerity that are from God, not in worldly wisdom but in the grace of God. Romans 1:16 I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, then to the Greek. Teaching Points Paul's Defense Paul is brought before Felix and accused by Tertullus, a skilled orator, of being a troublemaker and leader of the Nazarene sect (Acts 24:5). Paul refutes these charges by calmly presenting his case, emphasizing his worship of the God of his ancestors and his hope in the resurrection (Acts 24:14-15). The Role of Conscience Paul asserts, I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man (Acts 24:16). This highlights the importance of living with integrity and maintaining a clear conscience as a witness to others. Felix's Response Felix, familiar with the Way, postpones the decision, hoping for a bribe from Paul (Acts 24:22-26). This reveals the corruption and moral ambiguity often present in worldly systems of justice. The Power of the Gospel Despite being imprisoned, Paul continues to share the gospel with Felix and his wife Drusilla, speaking about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come (Acts 24:25). This demonstrates the transformative power of the gospel message, even in difficult circumstances. Practical Applications Stand Firm in Truth Like Paul, we should be prepared to defend our faith and stand firm in truth, even when falsely accused or misunderstood. Maintain a Clear Conscience Strive to live with integrity, ensuring that our actions align with our beliefs, so we can confidently stand before God and others. Seize Opportunities to Share the Gospel Use every opportunity, even challenging ones, to share the message of Christ with those around us. Trust God's Justice Recognize that human justice systems are flawed, but God's justice is perfect and will ultimately prevail. People 1. Paul The apostle who is on trial before the Roman governor Felix. Paul is accused by the Jewish leaders of being a troublemaker and leading a sect. He defends himself by explaining his faith and actions. 2. Ananias The high priest who comes down with the elders to present their case against Paul. Ananias is part of the Jewish leadership accusing Paul of causing unrest. 3. Tertullus A lawyer who represents the Jewish leaders in their case against Paul. Tertullus presents the formal charges against Paul to Felix, accusing him of being a "pest" and stirring up riots among the Jews. 4. Felix The Roman governor who presides over Paul’s trial. Felix listens to the accusations and Paul's defense, and he is described as having a rather accurate knowledge of "the Way" (Christianity). 5. Drusilla Felix's wife, who is Jewish. She is mentioned when Felix sends for Paul to hear him speak about faith in Christ Jesus. Places 1. Jerusalem Although not directly mentioned in Acts 24, Jerusalem is the city from which Paul was brought to Caesarea. It is the central city of Jewish worship and the location of the Temple. In the context of Acts, Jerusalem is significant as the starting point of Paul's journey to face charges before the Roman authorities. 2. Caesarea Acts 24:1 mentions that Paul was brought to Caesarea, where he was held in Herod's Praetorium. Caesarea was a major Roman port city and the administrative center of the province of Judea. It was named in honor of Caesar Augustus and served as the residence of the Roman governor. 3. Herod’s Praetorium Acts 23:35 (preceding chapter) and implied in Acts 24, Herod's Praetorium is where Paul was kept under guard. The Praetorium was a palace built by Herod the Great, which served as the governor's official residence and administrative headquarters in Caesarea. Events 1. Paul's Accusation by Tertullus Tertullus, a lawyer, presents charges against Paul before Governor Felix. He accuses Paul of being a troublemaker, stirring up riots among Jews worldwide, and being a ringleader of the Nazarene sect. Tertullus also claims Paul attempted to desecrate the temple (Acts 24:1-6). 2. Paul's Defense Paul is given the opportunity to defend himself. He asserts that he has not caused any disturbance in the temple, synagogues, or city. Paul emphasizes that his accusers cannot prove the charges against him (Acts 24:10-13). 3. Paul's Confession of Faith Paul admits to following "the Way," which his accusers call a sect. He declares his belief in the Law and the Prophets and his hope in the resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked, aligning with the beliefs of his accusers (Acts 24:14-15). 4. Paul's Explanation of His Actions Paul explains that he came to Jerusalem to bring alms and offerings to his nation. He was ceremonially clean when found in the temple, without any crowd or disturbance, and asserts that the Asian Jews who accused him should be present to bring charges (Acts 24:17-19). 5. Felix's Response Felix, familiar with "the Way," adjourns the proceedings, stating he will decide the case when Lysias the commander comes. He orders Paul to be kept under guard but allows him some freedom and permits his friends to attend to his needs (Acts 24:22-23). 6. Paul's Discourse with Felix and Drusilla Felix, with his Jewish wife Drusilla, listens to Paul speak about faith in Christ Jesus. Paul discusses righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment, which causes Felix to become afraid. Felix dismisses Paul, saying he will call for him when convenient (Acts 24:24-25). 7. Felix's Procrastination and Hope for a Bribe Felix frequently sends for Paul, hoping for a bribe, but leaves him imprisoned for two years. When Felix is succeeded by Porcius Festus, he leaves Paul in prison to gain favor with the Jews (Acts 24:26-27). Lessons from Acts 24 1. Stand Firm in Your Faith In Acts 24, we see Paul standing trial before Governor Felix. Despite the accusations against him, Paul remains steadfast in his faith. He confidently declares, "I admit that I worship the God of our fathers as a follower of the Way, which they call a sect" (Acts 24:14). This teaches us the importance of standing firm in our beliefs, even when faced with opposition. Our faith is our anchor, and like Paul, we should not waver in our commitment to the truth. 2. Be Prepared to Defend Your Beliefs Paul's defense before Felix is a masterclass in being prepared to give an answer for the hope that is within us. He articulates his beliefs clearly and respectfully, saying, "I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man" (Acts 24:16). This reminds us to be ready to explain our faith with gentleness and respect, as 1 Peter 3:15 also encourages. 3. The Power of a Clear Conscience Paul emphasizes the importance of maintaining a clear conscience. He states, "I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man" (Acts 24:16). A clear conscience allows us to live with integrity and peace, knowing that our actions align with our beliefs. It empowers us to face challenges with confidence and grace. 4. God's Timing is Perfect Felix delays making a decision about Paul, hoping for a bribe. Yet, Paul remains patient, trusting in God's timing. "When I have a convenient time, I will call for you," Felix says (Acts 24:25). This teaches us that while we may not always understand God's timing, we can trust that it is perfect and purposeful. 5. The Importance of Sharing the Gospel Despite being imprisoned, Paul continues to share the gospel with Felix and his wife Drusilla. "He spoke about faith in Christ Jesus" (Acts 24:24). This highlights the importance of sharing the good news of Jesus Christ, regardless of our circumstances. Our mission to spread the gospel is unwavering and vital. 6. The Reality of Judgment Paul speaks to Felix about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, causing Felix to become afraid (Acts 24:25). This serves as a reminder of the reality of judgment and the importance of living a life that honors God. It encourages us to reflect on our actions and align them with God's will. 7. The Danger of Procrastination Felix's response to Paul's message is to delay, saying, "When I have a convenient time, I will call for you" (Acts 24:25). This highlights the danger of procrastination, especially when it comes to matters of faith. We are reminded to seize the moment and not delay in responding to God's call. 8. The Influence of Greed Felix's desire for a bribe from Paul reveals the corrupting influence of greed. "He was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe" (Acts 24:26). This warns us of the dangers of allowing greed to cloud our judgment and lead us away from righteousness. 9. The Impact of a Faithful Witness Paul's unwavering testimony leaves a lasting impression on Felix, who frequently sends for him to converse (Acts 24:26). This demonstrates the impact of a faithful witness. Our consistent testimony can plant seeds of faith in others, even if we don't see immediate results. 10. Trust in God's Sovereignty Throughout his trial, Paul trusts in God's sovereignty, knowing that his life is in God's hands. Despite the uncertainty, he remains faithful, demonstrating his trust in God's plan. This encourages us to trust in God's sovereignty, knowing that He is in control and working all things for our good. Topics 1. Accusation Against Paul The chapter begins with the high priest Ananias and some elders bringing charges against Paul before Governor Felix. Tertullus, a lawyer, presents the case, accusing Paul of being a troublemaker and ringleader of the Nazarene sect. The Greek term used for "ringleader" (πρωτοστάτης, prōtostatēs) implies a leader or instigator, highlighting the perceived threat Paul posed to Jewish religious order. 2. Paul's Defense Paul is given the opportunity to defend himself. He refutes the accusations, stating that he has not caused any disturbance in the temple or among the people. Paul emphasizes his adherence to the Jewish faith and the hope in the resurrection, which is a central tenet of his belief and a point of contention with his accusers. 3. Felix's Response Governor Felix, familiar with "the Way" (a term used for early Christianity), decides to adjourn the proceedings. He keeps Paul in custody but grants him some freedoms, allowing his friends to attend to his needs. The Greek word for "the Way" (ὁδός, hodos) signifies a path or journey, reflecting the early Christian movement's understanding as a way of life. 4. Paul's Continued Imprisonment Felix frequently converses with Paul, hoping for a bribe, but ultimately leaves him imprisoned for two years. This prolonged detention without a verdict reflects the political and social complexities of the time, as Felix seeks to appease the Jewish leaders while maintaining Roman order. 5. Transition to Festus The chapter concludes with Felix being succeeded by Porcius Festus. Felix leaves Paul in prison as a favor to the Jews, indicating the ongoing tension between Roman authorities and the Jewish population. The Greek term for "favor" (χάρις, charis) often denotes grace or kindness, but here it underscores the political maneuvering at play. Themes 1. Accusations Against Paul In Acts 24, Paul faces accusations from the Jewish leaders. They accuse him of being a "troublemaker" and a leader of the "sect of the Nazarenes" (Acts 24:5). The Greek term used for "troublemaker" is "λοιμός" (loimos), which can also mean "pest" or "plague," indicating the severity of their charges against him. 2. Defense of the Faith Paul defends himself by affirming his faithfulness to the Jewish law and the prophets, stating, "I worship the God of our fathers as a follower of the Way, which they call a sect" (Acts 24:14). The term "Way" (Greek: "ὁδός," hodos) signifies the early Christian movement, emphasizing the path or journey of faith. 3. Resurrection of the Dead A central theme in Paul's defense is the resurrection of the dead. He declares, "I have the same hope in God that they themselves have, that there will be a resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked" (Acts 24:15). The Greek word for "resurrection" is "ἀνάστασις" (anastasis), highlighting the core Christian belief in life after death. 4. Conscience and Integrity Paul emphasizes living with a clear conscience before God and man, stating, "I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man" (Acts 24:16). The Greek word for "conscience" is "συνείδησις" (syneidēsis), reflecting the inner moral compass guided by faith. 5. Corruption and Justice The theme of corruption is evident in Felix's interactions with Paul. Felix hopes for a bribe, as indicated by, "At the same time he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe, so he sent for him frequently and talked with him" (Acts 24:26). This highlights the challenges of seeking justice in a corrupt system. 6. Procrastination and Spiritual Indifference Felix's procrastination in making a decision about Paul's case reflects spiritual indifference. Despite being "well acquainted with the Way" (Acts 24:22), Felix delays judgment, illustrating the danger of putting off spiritual decisions. 7. Divine Providence Throughout Acts 24, the theme of divine providence is evident as God orchestrates events for His purposes. Despite the accusations and delays, Paul's mission to testify about Christ continues, demonstrating God's sovereignty over human affairs. Prayer Points Pray for the courage to stand firm in your faith, even in the face of false accusations or misunderstandings. Ask God to help you maintain a clear conscience and live with integrity in all areas of your life. Pray for opportunities to share the gospel with others, and for the wisdom to speak truth with love and respect. Seek God's justice and trust in His perfect timing and righteousness in all situations. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Acts 24:5–6, Tertullus labels Paul a public menace; why does no Roman record confirm such major unrest caused by a single individual? 2. In Acts 24:10–15, Paul insists he adheres to Jewish tradition while also preaching resurrection; how does this align with his earlier conflicts over the Law? 3. Acts 24:22–26 portrays Felix as corrupt and expecting a bribe; do we have any non-biblical records supporting or contradicting this depiction? 4. Acts 24:13 states the accusers could not prove any crime; how plausible is it that the Roman legal system would hold Paul for years without solid evidence? 5. Acts 24:27 notes Felix left Paul imprisoned to appease the Jews; does archeological or historical data confirm this reported political concession? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the role of Tertullus highlight the lengths to which some will go to distort the truth for their own purposes? 2. What can we learn from Paul's handling of false accusations? 3. How does Paul's defense before Felix demonstrate the importance of personal integrity? 4. How do Paul's words about faith in God's promises speak to us today? 5. How can we use Paul's response to Felix as a model when we are wrongly accused or treated unjustly? 6. What does Felix's fear tell us about the convicting power of the gospel message? 7. How does Paul's situation challenge our understanding of justice and divine timing? 8. How does the story of Felix and Drusilla reflect human attempts to evade God's judgment? 9. How does Felix's hope for a bribe reveal the corruption prevalent in the system? 10. How does the encounter between Felix and Paul shed light on the intersection of faith and politics? 11. How might Paul's continuous witness to Felix, despite his imprisonment, inspire us in our evangelism efforts today? 12. How can we apply Paul's resolve and courage in our lives when we face adversity or injustice? 13. In what ways does this chapter challenge us to reevaluate our own responses to the truth of the gospel? 14. How does Felix's reaction to Paul's message of righteousness and judgment reflect the world's reaction to the Christian message? 15. How can we, as modern believers, combat the corruption and injustice in our societies as Paul did? 16. What do Felix's actions teach us about the human tendency to procrastinate on crucial decisions, especially spiritual ones? 17. How can Paul's treatment of Felix's fear help guide us in speaking truth into fear in our culture today? 18. How does Acts 24 challenge our understanding of God's sovereignty in situations of apparent injustice? 19. What lessons can we learn from Paul's steadfast faith and persistence in the face of delayed justice? 20. What does Paul's experience in this chapter teach us about trusting in God's plan and timing in the face of injustice in the present-day context? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions