The Acts of The Apostles

Acts was taught by Dr. James Modlish

 

Chapter Twenty Five
(25:1-27)

Paul is about to get one of the greatest opportunities he ever had (Acts 9:15), "for he is a chosen vessel unto me to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel..." (Acts 26:18).

The date of Chapter 25 is somewhere around (60 A.D.)

Vs. 1-11

The high priest and elders are still at it. Festus rather than taking Paul to Jerusalem, tells the Jews to come to Caesarea and present their case. Another assassination attempt (vs. 3) is foiled. The Jews are persistent (vs. 7) and continue to accuse Paul of crimes that no Roman politician was even interested in and which they could not prove (Acts 24:13). See (Acts 24:9; 18:13-15).

Festus (vs. 9) can see that it was politically expedient for him to try to pacify as many of the people as possible rather than allow justice to come to pass, so he asks Paul if he'd consent to a trial in Jerusalem. The handwriting is on the wall and Paul must, if he had any hope of living as a Roman, plea to go before Caesar (Acts 23:11).

Paul is consenting (vs. 11) to Capital Punishment. "I refuse not to die." His admission is, there are some transgressions worthy of death.

Capital Punishment is found:

[1]. Before the law - (Gen. 9:5,6)

[2]. Under the law - (Ex. 21:12; Num. 35:16-34)

[3]. Under grace - (Rom. 13:1-4; Acts 25:11; 2 Tim. 4:1-8)

Vs. 11

(Acts 26:32, 23:11)
 

Vs. 12-21

Festus says, "so be it."

During the interim, Agrippa (the son of Herod Agrippa) (Acts 12:1) shows up with his wife and Paul has another of his unique opportunities. Festus relates the story of Paul to Agrippa (vss. 14-21). The Resurrection of Christ was the chief note of contention (vs. 19) and always has been (Acts 26:8).

Vs. 22-27

Agrippa decides he would like to personally hear the accusations and defense (Eph. 6:19,20). Another one of the great doors (1 Cor. 16:9) is opened unto Paul. The leaders make a big deal (great pomp) out of the day only to Paul's benefit, for the people come expecting to receive something, and they do!

Festus makes a fine political speech to fit the occasion... I found (vs. 25)...I have (vs. 25) ... I have (vs. 26)...I have (vs. 26)...specially before thee... I might (vs. 26)...to me (vs. 27). Festus' motives have changed (Acts 25:9).

It is said that Agrippa's wife was somewhat of a first century Marilyn Monroe or Jean Harlow. She had been married often.

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