Tertullus Accuses Paul Before Felix

1After five days, the high priest, Ananias, came down with certain elders and an orator, one Tertullus. They informed the governor against Paul. 2When he was called, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying, "Seeing that by you we enjoy much peace, and that excellent measures are coming to this nation, 3we accept it in all ways and in all places, most excellent Felix, with all thankfulness. 4But, that I don't delay you, I entreat you to bear with us and hear a few words. 5For we have found this man to be a plague, an instigator of insurrections among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes. 6He even tried to profane the temple, and we arrested him. 7 8By examining him yourself you may ascertain all these things of which we accuse him." 9The Jews also joined in the attack, affirming that these things were so.

Paul Defends His Testimony

10When the governor had beckoned to him to speak, Paul answered, "Because I know that you have been a judge of this nation for many years, I cheerfully make my defense, 11seeing that you can recognize that it is not more than twelve days since I went up to worship at Jerusalem. 12In the temple they didn't find me disputing with anyone or stirring up a crowd, either in the synagogues, or in the city. 13Nor can they prove to you the things of which they now accuse me. 14But this I confess to you, that after the Way, which they call a sect, so I serve the God of our fathers, believing all things which are according to the law, and which are written in the prophets; 15having hope toward God, which these also themselves look for, that there will be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust. 16Herein I also practice always having a conscience void of offense toward God and men. 17Now after some years, I came to bring gifts for the needy to my nation, and offerings; 18amid which certain Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, not with a mob, nor with turmoil. 19They ought to have been here before you, and to make accusation, if they had anything against me. 20Or else let these men themselves say what injustice they found in me when I stood before the council, 21unless it is for this one thing that I cried standing among them, 'Concerning the resurrection of the dead I am being judged before you today!'"

Felix Holds Paul in Custody

22But Felix, having more exact knowledge concerning the Way, deferred them, saying, "When Lysias, the commanding officer, comes down, I will decide your case." 23He ordered the centurion that Paul should be kept in custody, and should have some privileges, and not to forbid any of his friends to serve him or to visit him.

24But after some days, Felix came with Drusilla, his wife, who was a Jewess, and sent for Paul, and heard him concerning the faith in Christ Jesus. 25As he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was terrified, and answered, "Go your way for this time, and when it is convenient for me, I will summon you." 26Meanwhile, he also hoped that money would be given to him by Paul, that he might release him. Therefore also he sent for him more often, and talked with him. 27But when two years were fulfilled, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus, and desiring to gain favor with the Jews, Felix left Paul in bonds.