Acts 24:2 When Paul was called in, Tertullus presented his case before Felix: “We have enjoyed a long period of peace under you, and your foresight has brought about reforms in this nation.
Several things struck me in this chapter: The flattery heaped on the judge by the accusers, hoping the get their way, Paul’s matter-of-fact and direct accounting of his actions and words, Felix’s knowledge of the truth (Paul is innocent) but refusal to do the right thing (let Paul go) for fear of the crowd.
Acts 24:4 But in order not to weary you further, I would request that you be kind enough to hear us briefly.
That last one should sound familiar as it is also what Pilate did to Jesus: refuse to free Him while knowing He was innocent. Pilate, instead, tries to wash his hands of the situation and do nothing. I guess the saying, “Everything old is new again” applies to the Bible as well. Flattery, truth, refusal to make waves even for the truth—all of these are still seen in abundance today.
Acts 24:18 I was ceremonially clean when they found me in the temple courts doing this. There was no crowd with me, nor was I involved in any disturbance.
Lord, Forgive me for the times that I have known what was right but done nothing for fear of man’s judgement. Forgive me for the times I’ve used flattery hoping to get my own way. Help me to always be matter-of-fact and direct, to shine Your light, and to comfort Your people. Amen.
Acts 24:26-27 At the same time he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe, so he sent for him frequently and talked with him. When two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus, but because Felix wanted to grant a favor to the Jews, he left Paul in prison.
Have a blessed day.