Chapter 24

1Five days later, the high priest Ananias came down with several elders and a lawyer named Tertullus. They presented the governor with their case against Paul.

2When Paul was called in, Tertullus began accusing him. He said, “Your leadership has brought us a long period of peace, and your careful planning has produced reforms for this nation.

3Most excellent Felix, we welcome these benefits everywhere and in every way, with deep gratitude.

4But I do not want to take up too much of your time. Please be kind enough to listen briefly to us.

5We have found this man to be a dangerous troublemaker. He stirs up conflict among Jews throughout the Roman world and is a leader of the Nazarene movement.

6He even tried to dishonor the temple, so we arrested him.

8If you question Paul yourself, you will be able to learn the truth about everything we are accusing him of.”

9The other Jewish leaders joined in the accusation and insisted that these claims were true.

10The governor signaled for Paul to speak, and Paul replied, “I know that you have served as judge over this nation for many years, so I gladly present my defense.

11You can confirm that it has been no more than twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem to worship.

12My accusers did not find me arguing with anyone in the temple or gathering a crowd, either in the synagogues or anywhere else in the city.

13Nor can they prove the charges they are now bringing against me.

14But I do admit this to you: I worship the God of our ancestors as a follower of the Way, which they call a sect. I believe everything written in the Law of Moses and in the writings of the prophets.

15I have the same hope in God that these men themselves accept: both those who do right and those who do wrong will rise from death.

16Because of this hope, I always work to keep my conscience clear before God and other people.

17After being away for several years, I returned to bring financial help to my people and to present offerings.

18While I was doing this, they found me in the temple after I had completed the required purification ceremony. I was not with a crowd, and I was not causing a disturbance.

19But some Jews from the Roman province of Asia were there. They should be here before you to accuse me if they have anything against me.

20Otherwise, let the men standing here say what crime they found when I appeared before the Jewish ruling council.

21The only possible issue is the statement I shouted while standing among them: ‘I am on trial before you today because I believe the dead will rise.’”

22Felix, who already knew a great deal about the Way, postponed the case. He said, “When the Roman commander Lysias comes down, I will decide your case.”

23Then Felix ordered the Roman army officer guarding Paul to keep him in custody but allow him some freedom. He was not to stop any of Paul’s friends from caring for his needs.

24Several days later, Felix returned with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish. He sent for Paul and listened to him speak about trusting in Jesus the Messiah.

25But as Paul discussed doing what is right, practicing self-control, and facing God’s coming judgment, Felix became frightened. He replied, “You may leave for now. When I find a convenient time, I will send for you again.”

26At the same time, Felix hoped Paul would give him money. For this reason, he often sent for Paul and talked with him.

27After two years had passed, Porcius Festus replaced Felix as governor. Felix wanted to gain favor with the Jews, so he left Paul in prison.