Using the Bible Study Guide For Acts 24 you will discover a wealth of information about this exciting time in the life of Paul. In this guide you will learn more about the trial, Paul faced, how he was defended, and how the apostle was delayed in his judgment. You will also find out how Paul was able to save his life.
ACTS 24:1-9 PAUL’S TRIAL BEFORE FELIX
During the time Paul was in Caesarea, he was brought to the court of Felix. The accusations against Paul were twisted attempts to imprison Paul. In ancient times, the accusation of sedition was used by tyrannical emperors to execute people.
When Felix heard Paul speak, he trembled and his heart sank. He thought that some of the accusations against Paul were false. He wanted to know more about Paul. But he was also afraid of the judgment that would come. He knew that overreaction would weaken his hold on power. He waited until he could speak to the commander in charge.
As Felix was listening to Paul speak, he was aware that some of the accusations against Paul were not true. He wanted to hear Paul’s defence. Paul’s defence is based on facts. He explained that no one could prove false accusations.
He stated that he did not bring any trouble to the city of Jerusalem. He also stated that he did not belong to an unapproved sect. However, he pointed out that Roman law prevented an unapproved sect from having followers.
He was accused of being the ringleader of a Nazarene sect. He was also accused of stirring up civil unrest and dissension throughout the world. He was also accused of attempting to desecrate the temple.
ACTS 24:10-21 PAUL GAVE HIS DEFENSE BEFORE FELIX
During Paul’s trial before Felix, he was given the privilege to explain his defense to the Roman emperor. He was not allowed to make a public statement about the matter, but was allowed to defend himself by giving a short introduction.
He also made a statement about the resurrection. This statement was in line with Jewish teaching about the resurrection, but contradicted the Sadducee view. He also made a statement about the Holy Spirit.
He also admitted that he was a Christian and believed in the resurrection of the dead. He also said that he believed in the Scriptures.
He also claimed that he was the spearhead of a Nazarene sect. This claim might have been true, but his introduction was a bit of a stretch. He painted pictures to support his claim. He also referred to Paul’s missionary journeys.
In the end, Felix was a cunning politician who hoped to use the trial as a means to his own advantage. He was familiar with the affairs of his province and the Roman army. He also knew about Christianity and was curious about the resurrection of Jesus. He knew that the gospel had reached far off lands. But he also knew that Paul had a wicked past.
ACTS 24:22-27 FELIX DELAYED JUDGMENT OF PAUL
ACTS 24:22-27 reveals how Felix delayed the judgment of Paul. Although Paul was imprisoned and could have been sent to prison, Felix decided to delay the decision until he was out of office. The purpose of this delay was to placate the Jews. He did not want to offend the Jews by sending Paul on his way. He was worried that Paul would complain to the court about his treatment.
Felix was a Jew and had some knowledge of Christianity. He wanted to know more about Paul’s faith. His wife was a Jewess and was curious about Christianity. He knew that Christians had some difficulty in separating from the Jews. He also knew that Christians did not accept the rites of the temple in Jerusalem.
The Jews accused Paul of causing a revolt against Rome. The Jews used a professional lawyer to present their case. The court would not find Paul guilty of treason, but they could find him guilty of something more. The Jewish leaders were also curious about Christianity, so they decided to ask for Paul’s trial in Jerusalem.
The Jewish leaders also promised to look after Paul. However, Paul had not made any public appearances in Jerusalem. He had only been there for twelve days.
