Acts 24

Read: Acts 24

Paul was sent to the Roman governor Felix because of the Jews who were trying to kill him (Acts 23).  Five days after Paul arrived there, the high priest Ananias went to see Felix along with some of the Jewish elders and a lawyer in order to make their case against Paul and try to convince Felix why Paul deserved death.  They told him that Paul was guilty of blasphemous acts and that he even desecrated the temple, which was punishable by death. Paul defended himself, but he used this as an opportunity. He told them that he had done nothing deserving of the punishment that the Jews desired.  He had been obedient and believed in the same law that they did. He argued that he was on trial because of his belief about the resurrection from the dead. This was a topic that even the Jews as a whole disagreed on. He argued that his belief in the resurrection and Jesus’ demonstration of it with his own resurrection should not be something that condemned him to prison or death.  

After this, we see the response from a man who missed the opportunity of a lifetime.  Felix was no ordinary Roman governor. He was married to a Jewish woman named Drusilla.  Because of this, he was familiar with the Jewish law and “the Way” that Paul was sharing about.  Having Paul in his custody struck curiosity in him. He ordered for Paul to be kept under guard, but gave him some freedom.  He then sent for Paul at a later time to hear more from him about faith in Jesus. Verse 25 gets to the heart of it all: “Now as he spoke about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix became afraid.”  The Holy Spirit was clearly working to convict this man, but instead of repenting and believing he was fearful and sent Paul away.  He later called for Paul regularly to hear more, but there is no record of him ever coming to faith in Christ. Felix had the opportunity of a lifetime.  God was revealing himself to him, but Felix did not want to give up his power or reputation. Instead, he held his position for two years, and was succeeded by Porcius Festus.  History tells us that Felix later lost his power and almost lost his life because of an accusation that went before the emperor. As far as we know, Felix never repented and believed in the message he had been so curious about.  

Maybe you have heard the message about Jesus and are curious.  Maybe you are convicted and realize you are a sinner, but are fearful that following Jesus will change the way your family and friends look at you.  My advice to you is to truly seek the truth. Ask God to reveal himself to you. The fact that you are even reading this devotion is a sign that God may already be working to reveal himself to you.  If the message of Christ is true, eternal life with God is more valuable than anything we could possibly give up. Don’t miss out like Felix, you may never get another chance.