Acts 24:22-27; ; Acts 25:1-12
In spite of Paul’s obvious innocence and the dishonesty of his accusers, Felix, in order not to upset these men, cowardly deferred his decision (v. 22). But he thereby puts off a decision which is much more serious: that concerning his soul. Summoned to talk to Felix about "faith in Christ", Paul presents a side of the truth which Felix was not expecting (v. 25). The Word terrifies him but does not penetrate his conscience, hardened by love of money (v. 26). "We will go into that later," he replies, letting the opportunity God was giving him escape, probably for ever. In spite of his name, which means "happy", Felix has thus lost real happiness. May we not forget that the "convenient season" is now!
Two years go by; the apostle is still in prison. But the hatred of the Jews has not lessened. Festus has hardly replaced Felix before a new plot is put into action, but the Lord delivers His witness from this. As with Felix (Acts 24:27) and Pilate formerly (Mark 15:15), the principal concern of Festus is to "do the Jews a pleasure" (v. 9). Consequently Paul feels obliged again to put forward his right as a Roman citizen in making an appeal to be judged by the emperor.