Oh boy — I’ll be honest with you here — writing about Acts can be tough, depending on your draw. This week we pick up with Paul awaiting trial. I’m going to rely on a little commentary help to get thru this one.
Luke gives two reasons that Felix delays his verdict: his thorough acquaintance with Christianity and his desire to hear the testimony of Claudius Lysias, the only independent witness to any civil disturbances. Whether from Drusilla (if you want some really interesting reading, research Drusilla) or from his decade-long tenure in Palestine, Felix knew “the Way,” the opposition to it from the Jewish leaders — and increasingly from the people — and the potential for civil unrest that its very presence seemed to create.
Since Felix already has all the facts, are truth and justice compromised by his delay? There may still be confusion over discrepancies among the testimonies of Tertullus, Paul and Claudius Lysias. Felix may want to interrogate the tribune in order to get to the bottom of the matter . At the very least Felix protects himself from further civil unrest sparked by Paul’s being at large and does the Sanhedrin a favor. The good news is that, by keeping him in chains, Paul is protected by those who want to kill him.
God bless you and keep you this week.
Matt
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