Read the Modern Pastor’s Version

After five days, Ananias the high priest descended from Jerusalem with certain elders and an orator named Tertullus. They went to Governor Felix and informed him against Paul.

Tertullus began to accuse Paul before Felix, saying, "We're grateful for the peace we enjoy under your leadership, and you've done many good things for our nation." He spoke with gratitude and respect, adding, "I'd like to speak with clemency and have a few words."

But Tertullus quickly turned against Paul, accusing him of being a troublemaker who stirred up insurrections among Jews everywhere. He claimed that Paul was the leader of the Nazarene sect, who had even tried to desecrate the temple.

Tertullus explained that they wanted to put Paul on trial according to their law, but Lysias, the chief captain, intervened with force and took him away from them. Felix ordered Tertullus to bring his accusers before him so he could investigate the accusations.

The Jews agreed that these charges were true, but Paul was given the opportunity to defend himself. When Governor Felix beckoned for him to speak, Paul said, "Since you've been a wise and experienced judge of this nation, I'll gladly answer your questions in my own defense."

Paul explained that he had only been in Jerusalem for twelve days, during which time he hadn't argued with anyone or stirred up trouble. He didn't have any proof against him, but he did admit to worshipping the God of his ancestors, believing everything written in the law and the prophets.

Paul also acknowledged that many Jews shared his hope of a future resurrection, both for the righteous and the wicked. He wanted to have a clear conscience before God and humanity, so he continued to worship as he had always done.

After many years, Paul came to Jerusalem to bring alms and offerings to his nation. Some Jewish opponents from Asia found him in the temple, but they didn't accuse him of any wrongdoing at that time. If they had any complaints against him, Paul encouraged them to come forward before the council where he stood trial.

Paul's only issue with his accusers was their criticism of his views on the resurrection. He had been brought up on this charge before Felix and other officials. When Felix heard these explanations, he gained a deeper understanding of Paul's faith but put off making any decisions until Lysias arrived to investigate further.

Felix ordered a centurion to keep Paul under guard, allowing him some freedom while instructing his acquaintances not to be forbidden from visiting or ministering to him. Later, Felix arrived with his wife Drusilla and summoned Paul to discuss the faith in Christ.

As Paul explained righteousness, self-control, and judgment to come, Felix was shaken. He told Paul to leave for now, promising to call for him when he had a more suitable time. However, Felix hoped that someone would pay a bribe to release Paul, so he frequently summoned him for conversation.

After two years, Porcius Festus arrived as the new governor and took over from Felix. But before handing over power, Felix left Paul in chains, hoping to appease the Jews with this move.