Acts 24:22-27·~1 min

The Verdict Postponed

Felix, being rather well informed about the Way, postpones the case and says he will decide it when Lysias the commander comes. He orders that Paul remain under guard but with some freedom, and that his friends be allowed to care for him.

T²²hen 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.

After some days Felix arrives with Drusilla and sends for Paul to hear about faith in Christ Jesus. But as Paul speaks about righteousness, self-control, and coming judgment, Felix grows afraid, dismisses him for the moment, and keeps calling for him while also hoping for a bribe.

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.

After two years, Felix is succeeded by Porcius Festus, and because he wants to do the Jews a favor, he leaves Paul in prison.

²⁷After two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus. And wishing to do the Jews a favor, Felix left Paul in prison.

Section summaryFelix, who already knows something of the Way, postpones a decision and keeps Paul in guarded but flexible custody. Later he and Drusilla hear Paul speak about faith in Christ Jesus, but when righteousness, self-control, and coming judgment come into view, Felix turns away while continuing to hope for a bribe, and after two years he leaves Paul imprisoned to favor the Jews.

Role in the chapterThis closing section keeps Paul’s case unresolved while exposing the motives shaping Roman custody. Felix is interested enough to listen, but not willing to act justly.