Festus Consults Agrippa

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Consultation

Festus was in a difficult position. He knew that Paul was innocent. Festus could have set Paul free with a promise to stay away from Jerusalem and Judea in the future. He could have given him a military escort to the boarder. But Paul had appealed to Caesar, and so Festus had to write a report explaining Paul’s case to Caesar. Festus situation was relieved somewhat by a visit from King Herod Agrippa II and his sister Bernice. Agrippa ruled over an insignificant kingdom to the north and east of Caesarea, known as Caesarea Philippi (v. 13). He was the son of the Herod who had arrested Peter and murdered James (Acts 12). He was living with his own sister Bernice who had been married to his dead uncle. Bernice was also a sister of Drusilla, the wife of Felix. Festus, knowing Agrippa had the most intimate knowledge of Jewish faith and practice, welcomed the opportunity to share Paul’s case with him (vv. 14-22).  

Paul, chained to a Roman soldier, abandoned by the Jerusalem Church, and frail in bodily appearance (II Cor. 10:10) was brought before Festus, Agrippa, and Bernice (v. 23). Festus then told King Agrippa and other guests that Jews from Jerusalem and Caesarea had come to him demanding that Paul be put to death (v. 24). “I have not found him guilty of any crime deserving death. But because he has asked to be judged by the Emperor, I have decided to send him to Rome” (v. 25). It was evident that Paul was innocent according to Roman laws. But Paul didn’t complain about his unfair situation. He made the most of the situation, to serve the Lord and share Him with others. Our problems may be opportunities in disguise. 

Application

Like the apostle Paul, I would like for any problems that I may have in life to be turned into opportunities to share the gospel and to reach out to others in need. My situations in life may change but each change will provide new opportunities, and I want to use these for His glory.

Acts 25:13-27 (English Standard Version)


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