Acts Chapter 24
Paul’s Accusers Come
1 Five days later, the high priest Ananias came down with some elders and an orator, Tertullus. They brought charges to the governor against Paul. 2 After Felix called for Paul, Tertullus began accusing him to the governor,
“We’ve experienced considerable peace because of you, and your foresight has led to reforms for this nation. 3 With gratitude we welcome them, most excellent Felix, in every way and everywhere. 4 But not to detain you further, kindly grant us a brief hearing. 5 We’ve found this man a troublemaker, who stirs up Jews all over the empire, the ringleader of a sect, the Nazarenes. 6 He even tried to desecrate the Temple, and we arrested him. [ 7 ]ms 8 You can question him yourself and find out the things we’re accusing him of.”
9 The Jews joined in the attack, claiming those things were so.
Acts 24:1-9
Paul’s Defense Before Felix
10 When the governor nodded to him, Paul spoke:
“I know that for many years you’ve judged this nation, so I’m glad to make my own defense about these claims. 11 You can learn that not more than twelve days ago I went up to Jerusalem to worship. 12 They didn’t find me debating or attacking anybody in the Temple, in the synagogues, or in the city. 13 They can’t prove to you any of these accusations. 14 I do admit that according to The Way, which they’re calling a ‘sect,’ I serve our ancestors’ God, and believe everything written in the Law and the Prophets. 15 In God I have a hope these men themselves share, that the just and unjust will resurrect. Acts 24:10-15
16 I always do my best to have a clear conscience toward God and other people. 17 After some years I was bringing offerings and charitable gifts to my nation. 18 In that connection they found me in the Temple, not with a crowd or making a disturbance. 19 Some Jews from Asia—they should be here to raise accusation if they have anything against me. 20 Or, let these men specify what they found wrong with me when I stood in the Sanhedrin— 21 other than I shouted, ‘I’m being judged today about the resurrection from the dead!’”
Acts 24:16-21
Paul Kept in Custody
22 Because he knew more accurately about The Way, Felix put them off, “When Lysias the tribune comes down, I’ll decide your case.” 23 He ordered the centurion to keep him in custody but give him some freedom and let his friends help him.
24 After some time, Felix with Drusilla his wife, a Jewess, sent for Paul and was listening to him about faith in Jesus the Messiah. 25 As he talked about right living, self-control, and judgment to come, Felix became uneasy, “Go away for now; I’ll call you when I have time.” 26 Besides, he was hoping Paul would give him a bribe; so he would send for him often and talk to him.
27 After two years, Porcius Festus succeeded Felix. To gain favor with the Jews, Felix left Paul behind in prison.
Acts 24:22-27