Paul Before Felix, the Roman Governor

“Felix already understood much about the Way of Jesus. He stopped the trial and said, ‘When commander Lysias comes here, I will decide your case.’ Felix told the officer to keep Paul guarded but to give him some freedom and to let his friends bring what he needed.” – Acts 24:22-23(NCV. Read Acts 24.)

Two years in the life of Paul were spent under arrest at Caesarea where he often had an audience with the Roman Governor, Felix. Paul had been there five days, after he had been hurried out of Jerusalem with a large contingent of Roman soldiers to prevent a riot or mob action from the Jews. Then Paul’s first hearing occurred. Ananias, the high priest, and Tertullus, the spokesman, a lawyer (orator) stood before Felix and brought charges against Paul. It is interesting to note how Tertullus complimented Felix and his rulership. The Jews hated the Romans. This was a measure to try to gain favor for their plea and to throw blame upon Paul. Felix wanted to hear Paul’s own defense. Paul was ready. He stood and clearly explained to Governor Felix what he had done in Jerusalem and The Way of Jesus Christ. Paul used every opportunity to witness to the power of Christ.

Felix ruled that he would await Lysias, the commander, before making a decision in the case against Paul. He put Paul under guard, but allowed him some freedom and that Paul’s friends could visit and bring what the prisoner needed. During two years Paul dwelt at Caesarea under arrest and from time to time had an audience before Felix, whose wife was Drusilla, a Jewess. We read: “he sent for Paul and heard him concerning the faith in Christ. Now as he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and answered, ‘Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you.’ “ (Acts 24:24-25).

It is evident that Felix was intrigued by Paul and his message. But there is no mention in the Acts story that Felix ever made a decision to follow Christ. Evidently that “convenient time” did not come for Felix. I remember the old hymn, “Almost Persuaded” we used to sing in our churches as an invitation hymn. The idea in the hymn is based on the indecision expressed by Felix in Acts 24, and is so typical of many people who almost make the choice to follow Christ but do not commit to Him. For two years Felix, wanting to do the Jews a favor, left Paul bound. And then the governor was succeeded by Porcius Festus. Felix’’s talks with Paul were over and maybe his opportunity to confess Christ. Let us not allow opportunities to claim and follow Christ go by the wayside. The time to believe and act is now. Opportunities may not come again. Allow the Spirit of God to do His work in times available.

c Ethelene Dyer Jones; Monday, May 10, 2010