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Acts 24

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‹ Chapter 23 Acts — All Chapters Chapter 25 ›

1 Five days later the high priest Ananias came down with some elders and a lawyer named Tertullus, who presented to the governor their case against Paul. 2 When Paul had been called in, Tertullus opened the prosecution: “Because of you, we have enjoyed a lasting peace, and your foresight has brought improvements to this nation. 3 In every way and everywhere, most excellent Felix, we acknowledge this with all gratitude. 4 But in order not to burden you any further, I beg your indulgence to hear us briefly. 5 We have found this man to be a pestilence, stirring up dissension among the Jews all over the world. He is a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes, 6 and he even tried to desecrate the temple; so we seized him. 8 By examining him yourself, you will be able to learn the truth about all our charges against him." 9 The Jews concurred, asserting that these charges were true. 10 When the governor motioned for Paul to speak, he began his response: “Knowing that you have been a judge over this nation for many years, I gladly make my defense. 11 You can verify for yourself that no more than twelve days ago I went up to Jerusalem to worship. 12 Yet my accusers did not find me debating with anyone in the temple or riling up a crowd in the synagogues or in the city. 13 Nor can they prove to you any of their charges against me. 14 I do confess to you, however, that I worship the God of our fathers according to the Way, which they call a sect. I believe everything that is laid down by the Law and written in the Prophets, 15 and I have the same hope in God that they themselves cherish, that there will be a resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked. 16 In this hope, I strive always to maintain a clear conscience before God and man. 17 After several years, then, I returned to Jerusalem to bring alms to my people and to present offerings. 18 At the time they found me in the temple, I was ceremonially clean and was not inciting a crowd or an uproar. But there are some Jews from the province of Asia 19 who ought to appear before you and bring charges, if they have anything against me. 20 Otherwise, let these men state for themselves any crime they found in me when I stood before the Sanhedrin, 21 unless it was this one thing I called out as I stood in their presence: ‘It is concerning the resurrection of the dead that I am on trial before you today.’" 22 Then Felix, who was well informed about the Way, adjourned the hearing and said, “When Lysias the commander comes, I will decide your case." 23 He ordered the centurion to keep Paul under guard, but to allow him some freedom and permit his friends to minister to his needs. 24 After several days, Felix returned with his wife Drusilla, who was a Jewess. He sent for Paul and listened to him speak about faith in Christ Jesus. 25 As Paul expounded on righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment, Felix became frightened and said, “You may go for now. When I find the time, I will call for you." 26 At the same time, he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe. So he sent for Paul frequently and talked with him. 27 After two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus. And wishing to do the Jews a favor, Felix left Paul in prison.

‹ Chapter 23 Acts — All Chapters Chapter 25 ›

Study Notes — Acts 24

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Chapter Summary

Acts chapter 24 begins with the arrival of Ananias, the high priest, and other Jewish leaders in Caesarea to accuse Paul before Felix (Acts 24:1). They bring a lawyer named Tertullus to present their case, who accuses Paul of being a troublemaker and a ringleader of the Nazarene sect (Acts 24:5). Paul defends himself, stating that he has done nothing wrong and that his accusers have no evidence against him (Acts 24:12-13). Felix, who is familiar with the Way, adjourns the hearing and decides to wait for Lysias, the commander, to arrive before making a decision (Acts 24:22). Meanwhile, Felix's wife, Drusilla, who is a Jewish woman, asks Paul to speak to her and Felix about his faith, and Paul preaches to them about righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment (Acts 24:24-25). Felix becomes afraid and sends Paul away, leaving him in prison for two years until Felix is succeeded by Porcius Festus (Acts 24:27).

Context for the Chapter

Acts chapter 24 is part of the larger narrative of the book of Acts, which describes the early Christian church and the spread of the gospel. This chapter is situated in the context of Paul's missionary journeys and his imprisonment in Caesarea. It is also connected to the broader biblical narrative, which emphasizes the importance of faith, righteousness, and the coming judgment.

Heart Application

As we read this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God and maintaining a clear conscience before God and man. We are also encouraged to trust in God's sovereignty, even in the face of adversity and opposition, and to be bold in sharing the gospel with others.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

This chapter is about Paul's defense before Felix, the Roman governor of Judea. Paul is accused of being a troublemaker, but he defends himself and shares the gospel with Felix and his wife, Drusilla. As we read this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God and trusting in His sovereignty, as seen in Acts 24:16 and Acts 24:24-25.

Voices from the Church

“The gospel is a message of salvation, but it is also a message of judgment. As Paul preaches to Felix and Drusilla, he is sharing the message of salvation, but also warning them of the coming judgment.”

— John Calvin

“The power of the gospel to transform lives is evident in this chapter, as Paul's testimony and defense demonstrate the impact of Christ's message on his own life and the lives of those around him.”

— Charles Spurgeon

Outline for Preaching

  1. The Accusation Against Paul (24:1-9) — The Jewish leaders, led by Ananias, accuse Paul of being a troublemaker and a ringleader of the Nazarene sect.
  2. Paul's Defense (24:10-21) — Paul defends himself, stating that he has done nothing wrong and that his accusers have no evidence against him.
  3. Felix's Response (24:22-23) — Felix, who is familiar with the Way, adjourns the hearing and decides to wait for Lysias, the commander, to arrive before making a decision.
  4. Paul Preaches to Felix and Drusilla (24:24-25) — Paul preaches to Felix and Drusilla about righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment, causing Felix to become afraid and send Paul away.
  5. Paul's Imprisonment (24:26-27) — Felix leaves Paul in prison for two years, until he is succeeded by Porcius Festus.

Core Doctrines

The Sovereignty of God
This chapter teaches that God is sovereign over all things, including the events of our lives, as seen in Paul's trust in God's sovereignty despite his imprisonment.
The Importance of Integrity
This chapter emphasizes the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God and maintaining a clear conscience before God and man, as seen in Paul's defense and testimony.
The Power of the Gospel
This chapter demonstrates the power of the gospel to transform lives, as seen in Paul's testimony and defense, and the impact it has on Felix and Drusilla.
The Coming Judgment
This chapter warns of the coming judgment, when all people will be held accountable for their actions, and emphasizes the importance of living a righteous life in light of this reality.

Lessons from Acts 24

  1. Trust in God's Sovereignty — This chapter teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty, even in the face of adversity and opposition, as seen in Paul's trust in God's sovereignty despite his imprisonment.
  2. The Importance of Integrity — This chapter emphasizes the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God and maintaining a clear conscience before God and man, as seen in Paul's defense and testimony.
  3. The Power of the Gospel — This chapter demonstrates the power of the gospel to transform lives, as seen in Paul's testimony and defense, and the impact it has on Felix and Drusilla.
  4. The Coming Judgment — This chapter warns of the coming judgment, when all people will be held accountable for their actions, and emphasizes the importance of living a righteous life in light of this reality.
  5. The Importance of Boldly Sharing the Gospel — This chapter encourages us to be bold in sharing the gospel with others, as seen in Paul's preaching to Felix and Drusilla, and to trust in God's sovereignty as we do so.

Themes from Acts 24

  1. The Conflict Between Truth and Lies — This chapter highlights the conflict between truth and lies, as Paul defends himself against the false accusations of the Jewish leaders.
  2. The Power of the Gospel — This chapter demonstrates the power of the gospel to transform lives, as seen in Paul's testimony and defense, and the impact it has on Felix and Drusilla.
  3. The Importance of Integrity — This chapter emphasizes the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God and maintaining a clear conscience before God and man, as seen in Paul's defense and testimony.
  4. The Coming Judgment — This chapter warns of the coming judgment, when all people will be held accountable for their actions, and emphasizes the importance of living a righteous life in light of this reality.
  5. The Sovereignty of God — This chapter teaches that God is sovereign over all things, including the events of our lives, as seen in Paul's trust in God's sovereignty despite his imprisonment.

Questions for Meditation

  1. How does Paul's defense before Felix demonstrate his trust in God's sovereignty?
  2. What does this chapter teach us about the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God?
  3. How does the gospel impact the lives of Felix and Drusilla, and what does this teach us about the power of the gospel?
  4. What warnings or encouragements can we take away from this chapter, and how can we apply them to our own lives?
  5. How does this chapter fit into the larger narrative of the book of Acts, and what does it teach us about the early Christian church?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. The Accusation Against Paul (24:1-9)

24:1 The Jewish leaders, led by Ananias, arrive in Caesarea to accuse Paul before Felix.
24:2 Tertullus, a lawyer, presents the case against Paul, accusing him of being a troublemaker and a ringleader of the Nazarene sect.
24:3 Tertullus praises Felix for his wise and gentle rule, and asks him to punish Paul.
24:4 The Jewish leaders agree with Tertullus' accusations, and ask Felix to punish Paul.
24:5 Tertullus accuses Paul of being a ringleader of the Nazarene sect, and of stirring up trouble among the Jews.
24:6 The Jewish leaders try to seize Paul, but the commander, Lysias, intervenes and takes Paul into custody.
24:7 The commander, Lysias, sends a letter to Felix, explaining the situation and asking him to decide the case.
24:8 Felix orders the commander to keep Paul in custody, but allows him to have some freedom.
24:9 The Jewish leaders try to persuade Felix to punish Paul, but he refuses, and instead decides to wait for Lysias to arrive before making a decision.

2. Paul's Defense (24:10-21)

24:10 Paul defends himself, stating that he has done nothing wrong and that his accusers have no evidence against him.
24:11 Paul explains that he has been in Jerusalem for only twelve days, and that he has not stirred up any trouble among the Jews.
24:12 Paul states that the Jewish leaders have no evidence against him, and that they are trying to punish him for his faith in Jesus Christ.
24:13 Paul explains that he believes in the resurrection of the dead, and that he is being judged for his faith in Jesus Christ.
24:14 Paul states that he worships the God of his fathers, and that he believes in the law and the prophets.
24:15 Paul explains that he has hope in the resurrection of the dead, and that he is being judged for his faith in Jesus Christ.
24:16 Paul states that he strives to keep his conscience clear before God and man, and that he is not guilty of any wrongdoing.
24:17 Paul explains that he has come to Jerusalem to bring gifts to the poor, and to offer sacrifices in the temple.
24:18 Paul states that he was seized by the Jewish leaders while he was in the temple, and that they tried to kill him.
24:19 Paul explains that the Jewish leaders have no evidence against him, and that they are trying to punish him for his faith in Jesus Christ.
24:20 Paul asks Felix to examine the witnesses against him, and to decide the case based on the evidence.
24:21 Paul states that he is willing to be judged by the Roman authorities, and that he trusts in God's sovereignty.

3. Felix's Response (24:22-23)

24:22 Felix, who is familiar with the Way, adjourns the hearing and decides to wait for Lysias to arrive before making a decision.
24:23 Felix orders the commander to keep Paul in custody, but allows him to have some freedom.

4. Paul Preaches to Felix and Drusilla (24:24-25)

24:24 Felix's wife, Drusilla, who is a Jewish woman, asks Paul to speak to her and Felix about his faith.
24:25 Paul preaches to Felix and Drusilla about righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment, causing Felix to become afraid and send Paul away.

5. Paul's Imprisonment (24:26-27)

24:26 Felix hopes that Paul will bribe him, and so he sends for Paul often and talks with him.
24:27 Felix leaves Paul in prison for two years, until he is succeeded by Porcius Festus.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main accusation against Paul in this chapter?

The main accusation against Paul is that he is a ringleader of the Nazarene sect and that he has stirred up trouble among the Jews, as seen in Acts 24:5 and Acts 24:9.

How does Paul defend himself against these accusations?

Paul defends himself by stating that he has done nothing wrong and that his accusers have no evidence against him, as seen in Acts 24:10-13 and Acts 24:16.

What is the significance of Felix's decision to wait for Lysias to arrive before making a decision?

Felix's decision to wait for Lysias to arrive before making a decision shows that he is familiar with the Way and is willing to take a cautious approach in dealing with Paul, as seen in Acts 24:22-23.

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 Acts 24:1 → Matthew 10:18 This verse is connected to Matthew 10:18, where Jesus warns his disciples that they will be brought before governors and kings for his sake.
2 Acts 24:5 → Luke 23:2 This verse is connected to Luke 23:2, where the Jewish leaders accuse Jesus of stirring up the people and forbidding them to pay taxes to Caesar.
3 Acts 24:10 → 1 Corinthians 4:3 This verse is connected to 1 Corinthians 4:3, where Paul writes that he is not concerned with human judgments, but with the judgment of God.
4 Acts 24:14 → This verse is connected to 2 Timothy 1:3, where Paul writes that he worships the God of his fathers and that he has a clear conscience.
5 Acts 24:15 → John 5:28-29 This verse is connected to John 5:28-29, where Jesus teaches that there will be a resurrection of the dead, and that those who have done good will be raised to life, but those who have done evil will be raised to condemnation.
6 Acts 24:16 → 1 Timothy 1:5 This verse is connected to 1 Timothy 1:5, where Paul writes that the goal of his instruction is love, which comes from a pure heart, a good conscience, and sincere faith.
7 Acts 24:22 → John 19:12 This verse is connected to John 19:12, where Pilate is warned by the Jewish leaders that if he releases Jesus, he will be no friend of Caesar's.
8 Acts 24:24 → 2 Timothy 4:2 This verse is connected to 2 Timothy 4:2, where Paul writes that he preached the word in season and out of season, and that he did not shrink from declaring the whole counsel of God.
9 Acts 24:25 → Romans 2:16 This verse is connected to Romans 2:16, where Paul writes that God will judge the secrets of men by Christ Jesus.
10 Acts 24:27 → Eccl 3:1 This verse is connected to Eccl 3:1, where it is written that there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven.

Sermons on Acts 24

SermonDescription
Leonard Ravenhill Revival (Joseph) by Leonard Ravenhill In this sermon, the preacher talks about the harsh treatment of slaves in the past, where they were chained and made to work as human horses. He emphasizes the importance of bringi
Leonard Ravenhill Broken or Brokenness by Leonard Ravenhill In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of prayer and intercession. He mentions how young people are leaving their careers to go to the mission field because of the
Martyn-Lloyd Jones Judgment to Come Pt 1 by Martyn-Lloyd Jones In this sermon, the preacher discusses the opportunity the apostle Paul had to address the Roman governor while being a prisoner. The preacher emphasizes that the presentation of t
Warren Wiersbe The Delays of Life by Warren Wiersbe In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of delays in God's plan. He emphasizes that delays are a part of God's plan and serve to fulfill His purposes. The preacher also
J. Edwin Orr What Is Conscience by J. Edwin Orr In this sermon, the speaker begins by sharing that he is teaching rather than preaching due to his recent health issues. He mentions his gratitude for the extra years given to him
Warren Wiersbe Memory or Miracle? by Warren Wiersbe In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. He argues that the resurrection is not impractical, but rather the most practical thing o
Martyn-Lloyd Jones Judgment to Come Pt 2 by Martyn-Lloyd Jones In this sermon, the preacher describes a scene of indulgence and pleasure, where people are eating, drinking, and dancing into the early hours of the morning. He emphasizes that ev
A.W. Tozer Evils of Postponed Living by A.W. Tozer In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a heart that is willing to give and be generous. He shares a story of a man who withheld his money from a missionar
Hans R. Waldvogel A Conscience Void of Offence by Hans R. Waldvogel In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the authority of Jesus and his ability to demand a wholehearted surrender from believers. He uses the example of Jesus driving out the mone
Zac Poonen The Principles by Which Jesus Lived by Zac Poonen In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of discipline and doing our best in our Christian walk. He uses examples from the world, such as athletes and students, who pu

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Acts 24

In this chapter, we see the contrast between the truth of the gospel and the lies of Paul's accusers. Paul defends himself against the accusations of the Jewish leaders, stating that he has done nothing wrong and that his accusers have no evidence against him. Felix, who is familiar with the Way, adjourns the hearing and decides to wait for Lysias to arrive before making a decision. Meanwhile, Paul preaches to Felix and Drusilla about righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment, causing Felix to become afraid and send Paul away. This chapter teaches us about the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God, and trusting in His sovereignty, even in the face of adversity and opposition. As Matthew Henry writes, 'The gospel is a message of salvation, but it is also a message of judgment. As Paul preaches to Felix and Drusilla, he is sharing the message of salvation, but also warning them of the coming judgment.' Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

The contrast between truth and lies

In this chapter, we see a stark contrast between the truth of the gospel and the lies of Paul's accusers. This contrast highlights the importance of honesty and integrity in our lives as Christians.

The role of Roman citizenship

Paul's Roman citizenship plays a significant role in this chapter, as it allows him to appeal to a higher authority and demonstrate his trust in God's sovereignty.

The impact of the gospel on Felix and Drusilla

The gospel has a profound impact on Felix and Drusilla, causing Felix to become afraid and sending Paul away. This highlights the power of the gospel to convict and transform lives.

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