The account of Paul's discourse with Felix and Drusilla is found in the Book of Acts, specifically in Acts 24:24-27. This event occurs during Paul's imprisonment in Caesarea, where he is held under the authority of the Roman governor, Felix. Felix, known for his cruelty and corruption, was married to Drusilla, a Jewish woman of notable beauty and the youngest daughter of Herod Agrippa I.

Context and Background

Paul had been arrested in Jerusalem and brought to Caesarea to stand trial before Felix. The charges against him were primarily religious, brought by the Jewish leaders who accused him of being a troublemaker and a ringleader of the Nazarene sect. After a preliminary hearing, Felix decided to adjourn the proceedings, keeping Paul in custody but allowing him some freedom and access to his friends.

The Discourse

Acts 24:24-25 states, "Several days later Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was a Jewess. He sent for Paul and listened to him speak about faith in Christ Jesus. As Paul expounded on righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment, Felix became frightened and said, 'You may go for now. When I find it convenient, I will send for you.'"

Paul's discourse with Felix and Drusilla is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it highlights Paul's unwavering commitment to preaching the Gospel, even in the face of potential danger and hostility. Despite being a prisoner, Paul boldly speaks about faith in Christ Jesus, addressing topics that would have been particularly challenging for Felix and Drusilla.

Themes and Topics

1. Righteousness: Paul speaks about righteousness, a central theme in his teachings. Righteousness, in the Christian context, refers to the state of being morally right or justifiable before God, achieved through faith in Jesus Christ. This would have been a convicting message for Felix, whose governance was marked by injustice and moral corruption.

2. Self-Control: The mention of self-control is particularly poignant given the personal lives of Felix and Drusilla. Felix's rule was characterized by excess and indulgence, while Drusilla's marriage to Felix, after leaving her first husband, was a subject of controversy. Paul's emphasis on self-control would have challenged their personal and moral choices.

3. The Coming Judgment: Paul warns of the coming judgment, a future event where all individuals will be held accountable for their actions. This message of accountability and divine justice would have been unsettling for Felix, as indicated by his reaction of fear. The concept of judgment underscores the urgency of repentance and faith in Christ.

Felix's Response

Felix's response to Paul's message is one of fear and procrastination. Rather than embracing the truth of the Gospel, Felix dismisses Paul, saying he will call for him when it is convenient. This reaction reflects a common human tendency to delay spiritual decisions, often due to fear of change or conviction of sin.

Historical and Theological Implications

The interaction between Paul, Felix, and Drusilla serves as a powerful example of the transformative and convicting power of the Gospel. It illustrates the courage required to speak truth to power and the varied responses individuals have to the message of Christ. Felix's fear and subsequent inaction highlight the peril of ignoring the call to repentance and faith.

This episode also underscores the early Christian mission's reach, extending into the highest echelons of Roman society. Paul's ability to articulate the core tenets of Christianity to a diverse audience, including Roman officials and Jewish royalty, demonstrates the universal appeal and challenge of the Gospel message.