BIBLE IN TEN

Acts 25:6

Saturday, 24 February 2024
 
And when he had remained among them more than ten days, he went down to Caesarea. And the next day, sitting on the judgment seat, he commanded Paul to be brought. Acts 25:6
 
A literal translation would be, “And having stayed with them more than ten days, having gone down to Caesarea, the next day, having sat upon the bema, he commanded Paul to be brought” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Festus had told the leaders of Israel to come down to Caesarea with him and to accuse Paul there instead of him being brought up to Jerusalem. Next, it says, “And having stayed with them more than ten days.”
 
Depending on what Greek text is used, there is then a difference in translation. Some variations are: “more than ten days,” “no more than ten days,” “eight or ten days,” or “not more than eight or ten days.”
 
Why the texts read differently isn’t sure, but it could be that “no more than eight or ten days” is an idiom for a short amount of time. From that, different scribes wrote it as they felt was intended. This is speculation, but for whatever reason, different texts do read a bit differently. Regardless of the actual time, it next says, “having gone down to Caesarea.”
 
During his short trip to Jerusalem, he probably would have been quite busy, possibly visiting all of the main soldier areas, the houses of the dignitaries, and the like, just like any such governor’s visit today.
 
From Jerusalem, he then returned to the governor’s station in Caesarea. And, notably, there was no delay in his commitment to bring the matter forward for the Jews to make their accusation. Therefore, “the next day, having sat upon the bema, he commanded Paul to be brought.”
 
The béma, or judgment seat, was normally an elevated place ascended by steps, somewhat like a throne. A literal explanation is “tribunal chair.” It is derived from the same root as the word basis, a step. Thus, it is a foot-breath. By implication, then, it is a rostrum.
 
Life application: In Romans 14:10, Paul says that we will all stand before the béma of God. In 2 Corinthians 5:10, he says that we must all appear before the béma of Christ. These are one and the same judgment, Christ Jesus being God.
This judgment will be for rewards and loss based on our lives in Christ. The judgment for salvation or condemnation for believers was determined at the cross of Calvary. By faith in what Christ did there, we are saved. We have moved from death to life and from condemnation to salvation.
 
The doctrine that says one can lose his salvation is actually heretical because it means that our salvation after coming to Christ is up to us. As this is so, it means that His salvation was not fully effectual for the purpose it was intended. Further, it means that our salvation was not of grace at all but of works.
 
If, at any point after being saved, that salvation can be removed because of our actions, it means that we are responsible for our salvation. But salvation is a gift, and it is of grace. Be sure to not let people trouble you with their incorrect ideas about salvation.
 
Having said that, what we do with our salvation is up to us. How will we be judged by Christ at the béma we must appear before? What we do today has consequences. Therefore, let us consider what we do and act in accord with the salvation we have been granted. May the Lord smile upon our lives and actions that we live now!
 
Glorious Lord God, thank You for the salvation You have granted to us through the shed blood of Jesus Christ our Lord. May we be faithful to live out our salvation in a manner that is pleasing to You. Help us in our weaknesses, O God. Amen.
 

Acts 25:5

Friday, 23 February 2024
 
“Therefore,” he said, “let those who have authority among you go down with me and accuse this man, to see if there is any fault in him.” Acts 25:5
 
A literal translation would be, “‘Therefore, those able among you,’ he says, ‘having descended together, if anything is wrong in the man, accuse him’” (CG).
 
The previous verse revealed Festus telling the Jews that Paul was kept in Caesarea and that he was going there soon. Because of this, his continued words begin with, “‘Therefore, those able among you.’”
 
Depending on the translation, various versions say something like “those who are able,” while others essentially say, “those who have authority.” The Greek could mean either. In one case, it would be considered “someone who could personally come and testify against Paul” like Tertullus.” In the other, it would be a leader who could speak for the charges against him.
 
Whichever is the intent, the outcome will be the same. Charges will be made concerning Paul in Caesarea during a trial. From there, a judgment from Festus can be expected. Next, “he says, ‘having descended together.’”
 
Just as a journey to Jerusalem is an ascent, so a journey from it is a descent. In his statement, a word not found elsewhere in Scripture is seen: sugkatabainó. It is derived from a word meaning “with” and another meaning “to descend.” Thus, it signifies “to descend together.” Finally, to finish the sentence, he says, “if anything is wrong in the man, accuse him.”
 
Once the descent to Caesarea is made, charges can be laid before Festus for consideration. It would be determined if there was any fault in him. The matter that should have been settled two years earlier when Felix was governor must once again be considered. This time, it will be before Festus.
 
Life application: In Psalm 122, it says –
 
“Jerusalem is builtAs a city that is compact together,4 Where the tribes go up,The tribes of the Lord,To the Testimony of Israel,To give thanks to the name of the Lord.” Psalm 122:3, 4
 
The tribes of Israel ascended to the place where the Lord dwelt among them. For the believer in Jesus Christ, something new has taken place –
 
“But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), 6 and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 2:4-6
 
In Christ, we are, even now, positionally seated in the heavenly realms. The reason this is so is because we are, in fact, in Christ. As Christ is in heaven right now, and because we are in Him, in God’s view, we are there too. Therefore, Hebrews 4 says –
 
“Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:14-16
 
Though this is written specifically to the Hebrews, it is a truth that applies to all believers. We do not need to first ascend to meet with God. Rather, we simply need to enter His presence, coming through Jesus as our Mediator to make our petitions and praises.
 
As Jesus said –
 
“God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” John 4:24
 
We don’t need to physically be anywhere particular to worship God. We just need to be in Christ. If we are, then we have access to God. Let us not get so caught up in rites and rituals that we forget this truth. The church is not a place. It is the people of God in Christ Jesus. Live out your life in this understanding. There is no lack of access to God when you access Him through the Lord Jesus.
 
Glorious Lord God, all praises, honor, and glory to You for what You have done in and through Christ Jesus our Lord. We come boldly before You today in His name, praising You for who You are. You are the God who has received us because of Your own goodness toward us. How can we withhold our thanks and praise? We shall not! Yes! All thanks and praises to You, O God. Amen.
 

Acts 25:4

Thursday, 22 February 2024
 
But Festus answered that Paul should be kept at Caesarea, and that he himself was going there shortly. Acts 25:4
 
A more literal rendering would be, “Therefore, indeed, Festus answered, Paul is kept in Caesarea, and he himself is about in quickness to go out” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, the leaders’ plot to have Paul ambushed on a journey to Jerusalem was noted by Luke. This was based upon their asking Festus to have him brought up to Jerusalem. However, Luke next records, “Therefore, indeed, Festus answered.”
 
The final decision on such a matter was up to the Roman authority. As Festus was the new governor at Caesarea, what he decided would settle the matter. At this time, rather than accommodate the Jews, it says, “Paul is kept in Caesarea, and he himself is about in quickness to go out.”
 
The intent of Festus is debated. Luke uses a present tense verb, “is kept.” Some, such as the NKJV, interpret this in the sense that Paul “should be kept at Caesarea” because he was a Roman. It was a matter which Rome had to judge, and, therefore, Caesarea was the place where Paul belonged.
 
Others interpret this as simply being a matter of fact, thus, “Paul is being held at Caesarea, and I myself am going there soon” (NIV). In this, it is believed that it was just more expedient for them to come to Caesarea and have them attend a trial there.
 
It seems unlikely that Felix would have ignored informing Festus about Paul’s situation and the attempt to kill him. Thus, the first option may be correct. This also seems more likely because the Jews have asked the favor of having him brought to Jerusalem.
 
Further, as Festus was in Jerusalem, it would have been rather irresponsible of him to not have talked to those in the Roman garrison. During their talk, the subject of Paul’s imprisonment would have been a matter of importance. Therefore, it seems that, at least for the time being, he was aware of possible trickery on their part. Verse 9 may dispute this, though, as Festus is said to want to do the Jews a favor.
 
Another option is that Festus, being the new governor, simply wanted to establish the precedent that he was in charge, and by not caving to the demands of the Jews at such an early date, he was demonstrating this authority. Therefore, he would only yield to their requests when it suited his purposes.
 
Life application: As noted above, the verb used by Luke is present tense, “is kept.” Despite this, there are variations in translation: is being held, was at, was being kept, should be kept, to be kept, is to be kept, etc.
 
Such changes, though possibly correct, do not accurately identify what the Greek actually says. The job of translators is to translate. Unless the preface to a Bible notes that they take liberties with their translations, identifying what type of liberties they take, it is not really appropriate to insert guesses, biases, presuppositions, and so forth.
 
These things will often not make a great deal of difference, but at times, a pastor or preacher will argue over a single word from the version he is using to establish a doctrine, only for it to be incorrectly translated in the first place.
 
Therefore, as a student of the Bible, the more time you spend checking things out, the better off you will be in what you believe. Be prepared to defend what Scripture says, but if you are going to do so, it is best for you to be properly prepared.
 
Today, with internet access available wherever you go, you can easily check what the preacher or teacher is saying right while you are listening to him. We live in a time of great blessing concerning the ability to access information. Let us not ignore it!
 
Lord God, how blessed we are. We can carry a little device with us that has more information available on it than entire libraries. We no longer need shelves full of books to access important information about Your word. Help us to wisely use the technology You have favored us with at this time in history. May we be responsible with what we have available! Amen.

Acts 25:3

Wednesday, 21 February 2024
 
asking a favor against him, that he would summon him to Jerusalem—while they lay in ambush along the road to kill him. Acts 25:3
 
The Greek more rightly reads, “Asking a favor against him, that he might summon him to Jerusalem, making an ambush to kill him along the way” (CG).
 
The previous verse told of the charges the chief priest and leaders made against Paul. Based on those, it now says, “Asking a favor against him.”
 
When Felix was noted as being replaced, the narrative said he left Paul in prison as a favor to the Jews. Now, with a new governor to replace FelixFestus, they are asking for advanced favor from the inexperienced Festus against Paul as well. The fact that they had previously planned to kill him was certainly erased from the memory of those serving under Felix after two years. And so, a plan is now made by the Jews under the government of FestusFelix. It was so “that he might summon him to Jerusalem.”
 
Paul was incarcerated in Caesarea. How inconvenient it would be for all of the leadership to be gathered in Caesarea when just one man could be brought to Jerusalem! It made all the sense in the world to not inconvenience FestusFelix with such a trivial matter there in Caesarea. One can almost hear their cunning words. But all the while, they were planning on “making an ambush to kill him along the way.”
 
Instead of a giant contingent of soldiers, spearmen, and cavalry, Paul would probably be conducted by a few soldiers. The contingent would be easy prey. In no time, they would be done with Paul once and for good!
 
Everything about the account shows that the memory of Paul was as fresh as it could be on the minds of the Jews. The failure of the past was to them a stinging rebuke concerning their supposed duties to God.
 
Until they made things right, they would feel they remained out of His favor over the matter. It is ironic that the opposite is true. They had left the favor of the Lord when they rejected Christ. It was Paul who could lead them back to the truth of their actions and into a right relationship with Him once again. But they were blinded to this truth and were, once again, plotting to do away with their loathed foe.
 
Life application: There are times that we become so passionate about a matter that it will blind us to any possibility of seeing other possible options concerning what we perceive as the truth. This is how Paul was before the Lord personally called him as an apostle.
 
Now, the people he was once aligned with had become his sworn enemies. People who are trained, for example, in the doctrine of the Jehovah’s Witnesses are told that they possess the truth and everyone else is a heretic. They cannot see beyond their own state, and they are normally completely unwilling to hear any other option.
 
This is true with most of us in one way or another. It is a state known as cognitive dissonance. We shut out anything that interferes with our presuppositions, and we then refuse to believe things that may be evident on the surface.
 
We should be willing to test and verify everything, even if it goes against our presuppositions. The Jews who wanted Paul dead presupposed that Jesus was a heretic, and they were unwilling to even entertain the thought that Paul could be right about Him. What is it that we think we are so sure about that we are unwilling to see other options?
 
Let us honestly evaluate what we believe and let us be willing to check and verify it by setting aside those presuppositions. It is a healthy way to approach all matters because we may be completely blinded to a matter that we are promoting without the right knowledge to even speak on it, much less claim that it is the absolute truth.
 
Lord God, may we be willing to challenge everything we believe and teach to others, honestly opening our eyes and checking if we could be wrong. If we are, and if we don’t do this, we will be instructing others in that which is false. May we not be such people. Instead, help us to think clearly and rightly about all things that we in turn teach. Amen.
 

Acts 25:2

Tuesday, 20 February 2024
 
Then the high priest and the chief men of the Jews informed him against Paul; and they petitioned him, Acts 25:2
 
Chapter 25 began with Festus coming to the province and then ascending to Jerusalem after three days. Now, while in Jerusalem, it says, “Then the high priest.”
 
Some manuscripts have the plural “priests,” while others have the singular “priest.” Either is possible because any previous high priest would still bear the title of high priest. By this time, the high priest was a person named Ismael, the son of Fabi (Josephus, Antiq., book 20, chapter 8, section 8). Along with him, it next notes, “and the chief men of the Jews.”
 
The word is prótos. It signifies the foremost, principle, etc. Further, it is this in time, place, order, or importance. In this case, it is referring to people. Being plural, it thus speaks of the principal men of the city. Of this gathered group, Luke next notes that they “informed him against Paul.”
 
After two full years of time, they were still stewing over Paul. They simply couldn’t move on from his words. Unlike the other apostles who apparently lived and moved freely among the people, Paul actively went forth to the Gentiles, evangelizing them and telling them that there were no cultural distinctions in Christ.
In other words, Paul clearly and unambiguously reveals in his words that Gentiles are just as favored by God as Jews. There is no distinction, even if there are differences (e.g., Jew/Gentile, Russian/Japanese, Black/Caucasian, etc.).
 
Yes, there are differences in all people and in all people groups, but there is no distinction in Christ. The Jews could not accept this. Therefore, they sat in Jerusalem stewing like meat in a pot, angrily awaiting the day that they could be rid of such a heretic. Therefore, when Festus showed up, they plotted in their minds, “and they petitioned him.”
 
The word translated as “petitioned” is in the imperfect tense, and so it indicates that they not only petitioned him but continued to petition him. The entire time he was there, they kept bringing the issue of Paul up to them. It shows that they were truly possessed by the situation and simply couldn’t let it go.
 
One can imagine them going to bed each night, lying on their beds, and tossing and turning at the nerve of this man who said they were just like the Gentiles. But this is how it is in Christ. Thus, they rejected not only Paul’s message but also the One Paul proclaimed.
 
Life application: To this day, there is an almost idolatrous reverence by some in the church to Jewish teachers. They are fawned over, regardless of what they teach or preach. Many of these teachers reinsert law observance, such as telling their followers not to eat pork, to observe the Sabbath, and so forth.
 
And yet, because these people are Jewish, they are held in special esteem. This is a bad approach to one’s theology. It doesn’t matter if someone has a doctorate, if he speaks fluent Hebrew or Greek, or if he has expensive, flashy clothes. The only thing that should matter to people in the church is adherence to and right application of God’s word.
 
Anything less should not be tolerated. Be careful to not get caught up in fallacious thinking. Evaluate leaders based on the word. In doing this, you will avoid many pitfalls and many false teachers who are out there, trying to steal you away from a right relationship with Jesus.
 
Lord God Almighty, help us to be sound in our thoughts about those who minister to us. May our hearts be directed to You. If anyone fails to proclaim Your grace apart from law observance, help us to identify this error and get away from it. You alone have done all that is needed to restore us in the giving of Jesus. Thank You, O God, for Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Acts 25:1

Monday, 19 February 2024
 
Now when Festus had come to the province, after three days he went up from Caesarea to Jerusalem. Acts 25:1
 
The verse more rightly reads, “Festus, therefore, having arrived in the province, after three days, he ascended to Jerusalem from Caesarea” (CG).
 
Chapter 24 ended with a note that Felix was replaced with Festus Porcius and that Paul remained in prison, even after two full years under Felix. With the arrival of Festus as the new governor, it next says, “Festus, therefore, having arrived in the province.”
 
He has assumed the position as governor. It is expected that he would be in the province from which he would govern for a few days. He would meet those who were assigned under him, get his house and effects in order, etc. However, after a short time, he wisely did what a responsible governor would do. Therefore, it next says, “after three days, he ascended to Jerusalem from Caesarea.”
 
Only a short time after his arrival, Festus “ascended” to Jerusalem. Though Caesarea was where he ruled from, Jerusalem is highlighted. It is an ascent to Jerusalem from Caesarea. However, despite all manuscripts reading this way, many translations change the wording and say , “from Caesarea to Jerusalem.”
 
It is unfortunate because it takes the emphasis off of what is being conveyed. This trip was not an unimportant thing to do. It was the complaints of the Jews there that got Felix removed and he needed to show that they were important to him as a leader.
 
It may even be that a note was waiting for him upon his arrival in Caesarea that they wanted to meet with him. Paul would have continued to be on their minds, and with a change in leadership, there would then have been a chance to have Paul released to them or at least brought to them. If so, they could have him cut down on the trip to Jerusalem, exactly as they had planned two years earlier. This is just what verse 3 will indicate.
 
Life application: As you read the Bible, think about why things are worded the way they are. That is, if the translation is a competent one and if it is properly structured in its presentation. In the case of this verse, you would not notice the change unless you read other translations and compared them.
 
Having a parallel Bible with three or even four translations in it is a good way to compare things. Once you see a striking difference in a translation, you can then research further as to why they are different. Then, making your own margin note will remind you the next time through which translation is correct and why.
 
Study! Then think on what you have studied! Why are things written as they are? The more you think about what you are reading, the more your mind will explain concerning this precious word that God has given to us. Enjoy your time in Scripture. You will get out of it just what you put into it. So read! Study! And enjoy!
 
Heavenly Father, how grateful we are that You have expressed Your thoughts to us in a word that is understandable and directed to who we are as Your creatures. It demonstrates what a great and loving God You are. Thank You for Your precious word. And thank You for Jesus who is revealed in it. Yes, thank You, O God. Amen.

Acts 24:27

Sunday, 18 February 2024
 
But after two years Porcius Festus succeeded Felix; and Felix, wanting to do the Jews a favor, left Paul bound. Acts 24:27
 
The words more literally read, “And after two years having been fulfilled, Felix received a successor, Porcius Festus. ‘And intending to lay the Jews’ a favor, Felix left Paul bound’” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, it noted that Felix was hoping for money from Paul. Therefore, he called for him often and conversed with him. Now, the last verse of the chapter says, “And after two years having been fulfilled, Felix received a successor.”
 
In this clause is a word found only here in Scripture, diadochos. Successor is an exact translation. Felix’s time as governor had finally come to an end without any change in Paul’s status. It has been said that this succession was caused by the complaints of the Jews against Felix.
 
Their constant moaning finally led Nero to recall him. However, and maybe to keep from further complaints being filed against him, he granted them the favor of leaving Paul in prison. The justification for this was then a greedy hope of self-preservation.
 
Because of this, it appears that Paul’s frequent conversations fell on deaf ears if they were in relation to the gospel. No other conversations also changed Felix’s attitude concerning Paul’s imprisonment. Instead, Felix departed Caesarea having abandoned Paul to the fate of the next governor, “Porcius Festus.”
 
It is known that Festus came to the province in AD60. He ended up dying in his second year in office. During the two years that Paul was in prison up to this point, it has been conjectured by some that he wrote the Epistle to the Hebrews.
 
It is also conjectured by some that Luke used this time to do his research for the gospel and for the book of Acts, compiling them and using Paul for necessary reference. As for the verse and the chapter, it ends with the words, “And intending to lay the Jews’ a favor, Felix left Paul bound.”
 
In this sentence is a new word, katatithémi. It signifies to lay or deposit a favor, probably with the view of receiving one in return. It will only be seen again in Acts 25:9. Both uses are in tied to the sitting governor’s relationship with the Jews.
 
Paul came to Caesarea as a prisoner, having been falsely charged by his Jewish brethren. His time in prison outlasted the final years of the governor, and his state was left unchanged as a new governor was brought in to oversee the matter that should have been handled after the short trial two years earlier.
 
Closing out the chapter, the Pulpit Commentary says -
 
“The scene in this chapter is a very striking one, depicted with admirable simplicity and force. The bloated slave sitting on the seat of judgment and power, representing all the worst vices of Roman degeneracy. The beads of the sinking Jewish commonwealth, blinded by bigotry and nearly mad with hatred, forgetting for the moment their abhorrence of their Roman masters, in their yet deeper detestation of the Apostle Paul. The hired advocate with his fulsome flattery, his rounded periods, and his false charges. And then the great apostle, the noble confessor, the finished Christian gentleman, the pure-minded, upright, and fearless man, pleading his own cause with consummate force and dignity, and overawing his heathen judge by the majesty of his character. It is a graphic description of this very noble scene.” Pulpit
 
Life application: The conjecture about Paul’s writing the Epistle to the Hebrews at this time is interesting. Although the letter is unsigned, it certainly bears all the hallmarks of having been written by Paul.
 
Internal clues in the letter tell us that the temple was still standing at the time of its having been composed. Paul would have had time to consider the many facets of why he held to his position concerning the law, the temple, and the sacrificial rites associated with them. As such, it was the most opportune time to write such a letter.
 
Further, it would mean that the letter was penned to his beloved brethren in the land of Israel, a nice touch. Being a Pharisee, he had the knowledge of the matters contained within the epistle to piece together the words to make the very complicated issues penned in it understandable.
 
Paul didn’t just whittle away his time in prison playing solitaire. If he penned Hebrews there, it would add another level of industry to his time in confinement. This can then inspire us to take advantage of such times in our lives as well.
 
Just because we are in difficult or trying circumstances, we shouldn’t let them take away our joy and productivity in the Lord. Look at David and what he did! Note the introductory words to the 57th Psalm: “To the Chief Musician. Set to “Do Not Destroy.” A Michtam of David when he fled from Saul into the cave.” And again, the introduction to the 142nd Psalm says, “A Contemplation of David. A Prayer when he was in the cave.”
 
David was hemmed in by his enemies, and yet he took time to pen his devoted words to the Lord. How many of us would get stuck in a car in a snowstorm and stop to write a song to the Lord? And once again, the 3rd Psalm opens with, “A Psalm of David when he fled from Absalom, his son.”
 
Who would be on the move on a battlefield and stop to write a psalm to God? David did. Remember the Lord at the bleak times in your life. God may just use you to do great things because you did.
 
Lord God, may we be productive for You in our lives, even when things seem tough or troubling. It is at such times that we may have the greatest inspiration of all to glorify You. Remind us that You are there, and may we have the wisdom to acknowledge it. This life is fleeting. What we do with it now is important for ourselves and maybe for others as well. So, help us in this, O God. Amen.

Acts 24:26

Saturday, 17 February 2024
 
Meanwhile he also hoped that money would be given him by Paul, that he might release him. Therefore he sent for him more often and conversed with him. Acts 24:26
 
The words more literally read, “And simultaneously, also hoping that money shall be given him by Paul that he might release him. And, therefore, summoning often, he talked with him” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, Felix sent Paul away, telling him he would call him at a convenient time. Rather than wanting to hear about the gospel, however, he had another reason for the delay, as Luke next records, “And simultaneously, also hoping that money shall be given him by Paul.”
 
As in government positions throughout history, getting bribes is something that the greedy and dishonest will naturally take advantage of. In this case, it may be that Felix latched on to Paul's words of verse 24:17 and figured that he either had money or had friends who would take care of him if he were in need. There, it said, “Now after many years I came to bring alms and offerings to my nation.”
 
If Paul was carrying alms, it had to have come from somewhere. The source was less important to him than getting what Paul may have had access to. In exchange for a bribe, Luke says it was “that he might release him.”
 
Paul had clearly established his innocence, and there was no evidence of any wrongdoing in him that could be proven, and yet out of a sense of personal gain alone, Felix kept him in prison and waited to see if he could profit off it in order for Paul to be freed. And more, he assumed that the longer Paul was in prison, the more willing he would be to make a deal. Thus, Luke records, “And, therefore, summoning often, he talked with him.”
 
These words fail to mention any further fear on the part of Felix. Instead, he seems to have simply hardened his heart against the word. Such may not be the case, but it seems likely that if there were any hint of a conversion in him, Luke would have mentioned it.
 
This back and forth between the two went on for a full two years. It seems that he hoped to simply weary out Paul’s patience until he caved in and paid a bribe.
 
Life application: It appears that Paul was in no hurry to leave the prison. He was allowed to live there in a semi-free state. People could come to him and help him out, and – probably above all – he could study the parchments he possessed. His time in prison was probably one of great learning.
 
Today, we find ourselves always wanting to do more, go to more places, have adventures, and so forth. And yet, there are people who live on little islands or in country towns that have never traveled more than a mile or two away from home in their entire lives.
 
What is it that we find so important about doing, doing, doing? If we are truly happy people, we should be able to find contentment right at home. People find it necessary to miss church to attend sports. People skip work to go on a quick excursion to the beach.
 
Such things are obviously fun to do, but where are our priorities? Let us remember to cling to what is important first and foremost. If time permits, we can find other things to do, but we should never skip our time in the word or our time in fellowship with other believers if it is at all possible.
 
Lord God, help us to be content with simpler lives that focus on You more and the things of this world less. In the end, we won’t say, “I wish I had earned more money” when we are facing our final moments. How much more then will we regret the misuse of our time when we stand before You? Help us to wisely consider such things. Amen.

Acts 24:25

Friday, 16 February 2024
 
Now as he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and answered, “Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you.” Acts 24:25
 
A more literal translation is, “And he, reasoning concerning righteousness and continence and the judgment coming to be, Felix, having become frightened, answered, ‘For now, be going, and having found time, I will call you’” (CG).
 
In the previous verse, it noted that Felix came to Paul with Drusilla, his wife. He heard Paul concerning the faith in Christ. From there, Luke now records, “And he.”
 
It is referring to Paul. While Felix and Drusilla were listening, Paul spoke, “reasoning concerning righteousness.”
 
The word is dikaiosuné. It speaks of “righteousness” or “justice” that is deemed right by the Lord. It isn’t so much in reference to the character of God as it is to what is expected of us in our relations with both God and man. Thus, it is the proper conduct of our lives.
 
In the next verse, it will be seen that Felix is susceptible to taking bribes, and so this was a good point for Paul to have started with. Next, it notes “continence.”
 
It is a new word in Scripture, egkrateia. It refers to a person’s ability to practice moderation or restraint concerning life’s temptations. Strong’s says it is “the virtue of one who masters his desires and passions, especially his sensual appetites.” Thus, continence is a good word. The thought is also well expressed by the words self-control. Paul then continues with “the judgment coming to be.”
 
It is an obvious thought concerning what a person can expect if there really is a God. Tucked inside of man is a sense of responsibility to his Creator. Further, the knowledge that God exists is revealed in the creation itself. Paul addresses these things in Romans 1.
 
However, man can sear his conscience to the point that this thought is almost completely erased from his mind. Therefore, it is something that Paul spoke about because whether one accepts the gospel or not, judgment lies ahead. The difference is how one will stand before God on that day.
 
In the case of Paul’s words, he certainly presented the gospel in the sense that we are fallen, and that leads to our failings, all of which will be dealt with in either our judgment for condemnation or in our salvation through Christ’s judgment on our behalf.
 
What is amazing about Paul’s words is that he is standing before the one who has the power to release him or convict him. Despite that, instead of tickling his ears, he talks about issues that would make both the humble and the hardened squiggle in their seats.
 
Rather than pursuing a soft message, he chose the topic that bore especially on Felix’s character. And rightfully so, because Tacitus’s writings about him say that he “exercised the authority of a king with the spirit of a slave.” Because of Paul’s words, Luke next records, “Felix, having become frightened.”
 
The presentation had its intended effect. The word used has a strong sense. “Terrified” might be a better description of his state. Fear can lead to changing one’s mind if the heart is tender, or it can lead to looking for a means of escape from that which terrifies. Unfortunately, Felix chose the latter. Luke continues that he “answered, ‘For now, be going, and having found time, I will call you.’”
 
Felix has put off what he should have acted on. When a person is faced with such a decision, delaying a response will generally lead to the hardening of the heart.
 
Life application: Sharing the gospel is something we should do. When we do, it is good to give a summary thought concerning what we have said. In 2 Corinthians 6, Paul writes –
 
“We then, as workers together with Him also plead with you not to receive the grace of God in vain. 2 For He says:
‘In an acceptable time I have heard you,And in the day of salvation I have helped you.’
Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:1, 2
 
This is a good verse to use to bring what you have said home. A delayed decision for Christ may turn into a decision never being made. In quoting Paul, adding in an understandable life application of the thought is helpful –
 
“Do you know that on September 11, 2001, several thousand people went into the World Trade Center, pressed the elevator button, and went up to whatever floor they were set to go to? Not one of those people thought, ‘This is the last time I will ever get on an elevator. I will be jumping out of a window at the top of this building in a few minutes.’ This is what life is like. We are one moment away from our demise at any moment. Without Jesus, we will have to face God alone. Today can be the day that changes for you. Call on Jesus and be saved while you have the opportunity.”
 
Be sure to speak of the judgment coming to be and how that can be one of salvation, not condemnation. Be sure to tell them that it can be so if they just believe in Jesus.
 
Lord God Almighty, may we be responsible with the time You have given us. Give us a heart to talk to others about Jesus, declaring their need to accept what He has done, believing the gospel of our salvation. And may we remember to remind them that today is the day! We may not have tomorrow. Amen.

Acts 24:24

Thursday, 15 February 2024
 
And after some days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish, he sent for Paul and heard him concerning the faith in Christ. Acts 24:24
 
In the previous verse, it was commanded that Paul be given certain liberties while he was incarcerated in Caesarea. Now, the narrative continues, saying, “And after some days.”
 
This period was probably not very long. If the days were delayed to any extent at all, Luke most likely would have noted this. Regardless of the timeframe, however, it says, “when Felix came with his wife Drusilla.”
 
Drusilla was the third daughter of Herod Agrippa I and the sister of Agrippa II. Agrippa I was the king who spoke before the people of Tyre and Sidon in Acts 12 and who, failing to give glory to God, was struck by Him and was eaten by worms. Agrippa II is the king whom Paul will speak before in Acts 26.
 
This royal family was aware of the Christian movement, as Acts particularly describes. Of Drusilla, it next says, “who was Jewish.”
 
This is a point Luke felt was necessary to include to remind the reader of the status of those Paul spoke to. It could be deduced from a careful study of Acts that she was Jewish, but Luke especially notes it anyway.
 
As for her situation, at one time, she was engaged to be married to Antiochus Epiphanes, but because he wouldn't get circumcised, she was married to Azizus, king of Emesa. This is recorded in Josephus Ant. xx. 7. 1.
 
After this, and with the supposed help of a sorcerer named Simon, she was estranged from him and eventually was married to Felix. It is not certain if this was the same as the person mentioned in Acts 8. Barnes says the following concerning this –
 
“Felix was governor of Judea, he saw Drusilla and fell in love with her, and sent to her Simon, one of his friends, a Jew, by birth a Cyprian, who pretended to be a magician, to [endeavor] to persuade her to forsake her husband and to marry Felix. Accordingly, in order to avoid the envy of her sister Bernice, who treated her ill on account of her beauty, ‘she was prevailed on,’ says Josephus, ‘to transgress the laws of her forefathers, and to marry Felix’ (Josephus, Antiq., book 20, chapter 7, sections 1 and 2).”
 
Her recorded life, including her marriage to a Gentile indicated that she wasn't a strict adherent to Jewish ways. As for Felix’s return with Drusilla, Luke next records that “he sent for Paul and heard him concerning the faith in Christ.”
 
The news about how the Jews opposed Paul’s teaching may have made both her and Felix eager to hear what he had to say concerning the message of Jesus. Luke specifically focuses on the fact that Paul’s message was centered on “the faith.”
 
Life application: Felix was a Gentile, and Drusilla was a Jewess who was not obedient to the law. Both of them stood outside of the acceptable parameters of the Law of Moses. And yet, they were willing to hear about Paul’s doctrine concerning faith in Christ.
 
Even though Felix was a Gentile, he would have had a good understanding of what Judaism taught. As such, it was probably surprising to both he and his wife that Paul spoke of faith rather than works.
 
In the coming verses, Paul will explain what the faith in Christ should entail, but the things he mentions are points of doctrine that come after salvation. Salvation is not contingent on those things, nor is continued salvation contingent on those things.
 
The saving message of Jesus is one of faith in what He has done. Personal merit is entirely excluded. Be sure that when you present the gospel to others, that this is clearly understood. If people are told they must merit salvation through works, you are not presenting the true gospel.
 
Jesus! He has done it all. We need to believe this by faith. Upon belief, we are saved. After belief, we should endeavor to live in a holy and upright manner because of the salvation God bestowed upon us by His grace.
 
Lord God Almighty, what could we place before You and say, “See, this is why You should save me?” We are stained with sin and incapable of doing anything that could remove that. But You, O God, have made it possible through the giving of Jesus. We can now boldly proclaim, “See, this is what God has done to save us all!” Thank You, O God, for Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Acts 24:23

Wednesday, 14 February 2024
 
So he commanded the centurion to keep Paul and to let him have liberty, and told him not to forbid any of his friends to provide for or visit him. Acts 24:23
 
In the previous verse, Felix told Paul that when Lysias, the commander, came down, he would decide the case against him. With that complete, it now says, “So he commanded the centurion.”
 
The centurion mentioned here was probably the one in charge of all of the prisoners who were at the location. It would be he whom Felix would deal with. This centurion would then have guards under him that he would direct concerning individual prisoners. To this particular centurion, the direction was “to keep Paul and to let him have liberty.”
 
The word translated as “liberty” is new to Scripture, anesis. It is a noun derived from the verb aniémi, to let loose or slacken. For example, that verb was used previously in Acts –
 
“But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. 26 Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were loosed [aniémi].” Acts 16:25, 26
 
Thus, Paul is being given an easing or loosing of the normal confinement of prisoners. But more, Felix goes further “and told him not to forbid any of his friends to provide for or visit him.”
 
The order for Paul to have a relaxation of the prison rules included that he should be allowed to have visitors and be provided for by them as well. This might mean better food could be brought to him or whatever else his visitors thought would help his time go by more enjoyably.
 
This time in prison may very well have been used by Luke to obtain information for either his gospel, or the book of Acts (as a legal defense for Paul), or maybe both.
 
Paul’s time in prison in Caesarea would not be overly difficult as far as Felix is concerned. As the Geneva Bible says, “God is a most faithful keeper of his servants, and the power of the truth is wonderful, even amongst men who are otherwise profane.”
 
That was true of Joseph while he was in prison. Likewise, Paul will now enjoy freedoms during his incarceration that will allow him to contemplate the goodness of God even during a difficult situation. It is more than probable that he was allowed to keep his parchments in order to study the word. If so, he would constantly be making connections from the Old Testament concerning the marvelous work of God in Christ.
 
Life application: Tough times are sure to come upon each of us. Some may be arrested for their witness to Christ. Some may lose their jobs in a time of financial distress. Some may be hurt or get a sickness that causes them to be incapacitated, paralyzed, bedridden, etc.
 
We don’t normally think about such things until they come upon us. However, what would you do if one of these came upon you? How would you respond to it? It is likely that Paul used his time in prison in prayer and in a study of the Scriptures. He certainly told those around him about the freedom found in Christ, even while they were bound in prison.
 
It is good and right for us to remain productive even while in troubling circumstances. Let us not lose or slacken our devotion to the Lord at such times. Rather, let us continue to be proper examples of the patience of Christ, even through them. This is a demonstration of faith, and nothing done in faith will lack its reward when we stand before the Lord.
 
Lord God, may we be willing to hold fast to You even in the most trying of times. Help us to have this attitude now in preparation for anything that may come against us in the days ahead. Help us to remain faithful vessels filled with Your Spirit so that those around us will see that our faith is worth emulating. To Your glory, we pray. Amen.
 

Acts 24:22

Tuesday, 13 February 2024
 
But when Felix heard these things, having more accurate knowledge of the Way, he adjourned the proceedings and said, “When Lysias the commander comes down, I will make a decision on your case.” Acts 24:22
 
Even if a bit unwieldy, a literal translation is “And having heard these, Felix deferred them, having known distinctly these about the Way, having said, ‘When Lysias the commander might descend, I will examine these as to you’” (CG).
 
Paul just made his final words of defense to Felix, noting that it was probably concerning his belief in the resurrection of the dead for which he was being judged. With that concluded, it next says, “And having heard these.”
 
It is referring to the entire discourse that has occurred before him, both that of Tertullus and then Paul’s rebuttal. Once he had heard both sides, it next says “Felix deferred them.”
 
Here is a word found only this once in Scripture, anaballó. It literally means “up-cast.” As if something is being tossed upward. However, translated into English, it means to put off or defer. It seems to be similar to our “he punted.” Rather than deciding at the time, there would be a delay for a particular reason.
 
It was clear that the two presentations were at odds with one another. In order to establish if what Paul said was true, he would need the eyewitness to the events Paul said took place. If they matched what he had said, Felix would no longer need to accept the words of the Jews that may have taken place prior to the arrival of the Roman soldiers during the ruckus at the temple.
 
This is particularly so because it next says, “having known distinctly these about the Way.” Albert Barnes notes that the Greek in this verse is rather obscure, and scholars are divided over what true intent is. What it seems to imply is that Felix had knowledge of “the Way,” meaning Christianity, which was greater than the accusers did. Because of this, he adjourned the trial.
 
There are several possible ways he could have come to know about Christianity. He may have simply heard about it as a part of the general religion of the Jews. In essence, “There is a group of Jews who believe their Messiah has risen from the dead.” From that, he could have decided to learn more.
 
It could also be that the church which Philip established in Caesarea may have had a large enough influence there, even extending to Romans. Cornelius was in Caesarea at his conversion and may have been an example to others.
 
Further, Felix's wife, Drusilla, may have also added to his knowledge. One way or another, he was sufficiently versed in Christianity that he knew that the charges against Paul were not reliable.
 
The “sect of the Nazarenes,” as Tertullus called it in a somewhat negative manner, was not so esteemed by Felix. Because of this, he would instead focus on Lysias's testimony. If he had nothing to add to a charge against Paul, it is certain that he would let him go because there was nothing of substance offered by the Jews at this trial. Therefore, “having said, ‘When Lysias the commander might descend, I will examine these as to you.’”
 
It would be up to a visit from Lysias, who had been with Paul both at the temple and then in the Sanhedrin, to set the matter straight. As Paul was Roman, and because this is a court specifically set to judge Roman matters, the decision would not go further than that.
 
Life application: The previous verse spoke of “resurrection of dead.” As noted, that was a general statement. Can that which is dead be brought back to life? Paul had noted to Felix that he called out this idea while in the Sanhedrin.
 
Around the world, there are people who claim they can raise dead people. Shamans, mystics, etc., call out incantations and use potions and spells. Some apparently only raise the dead as zombies. Some claim they can raise them to fully restored life.
 
Modern technology has led people to look for restored life in the future by freezing sick people now. This is in hopes of the discovery of cures that will then be applied to those who will be thawed out for that purpose.
 
Solomon noted that God has put eternity in man’s heart. There is a longing to live forever that is instilled in us. Only when we become mentally defective does that change. But for the normal person, continued life is the hope.
 
Where is your hope of eternal life going to be directed? The most reliable witness in all of the world is that of the Bible. It testifies to why man dies. It also testifies to what God has done to correct that defective state. He Himself has accomplished all that is necessary for man to live forever in a fully restored relationship with Him.
 
This came about through the giving of His Son, Jesus. To prove that this is so, Jesus resurrected. Have faith in this. It is the full, final, and forever cure for humanity. You don’t need to be frozen in hopes of someday being fixed in a body that will still be susceptible to death. Rather, God promises a new life and a new reality for those who come to Him through Jesus. Believe, to the saving of your soul!
 
Glorious Heavenly Father, Your word testifies to the resurrection of Jesus Christ. May we have faith that it is so. Help us to consider what You have done and to accept that it is not only possible but that it is reality. Strengthen us in our faith and help us in our walk all the days of our lives. We wait with longing for the day that You come for us. May that day be soon! Amen.