Scripture
As he reasoned with them about righteousness and self-control and the coming day of judgement, Felix became quite frightened. “Go away now,” he replied. “When it is more convenient I will call for you again.”
Observation
Ananias arrives in Caesarea with some elders and a lawyer to prosecute the case against Paul.
The lawyer Tertullus alleges that Paul is a trouble maker who stirs up riots among the Jews, and that he tried to desecrate the Temple.
In his defence, Paul says that he was at the Temple to worship not to desecrate it. The only time he caused any trouble was when he shouted in the council that he was on trial because he believed in the resurrection of the dead.
Felix orders Paul held in the prison in order to gain favour with the Jews. Every so often he summons Paul and talk with him, hoping to gain a bribe. This goes on for two years.
Application
Felix was a politician and was motivated by ambition. He changed his actions to suit what was more politically expedient at the time.
He had very mixed motives:
• he wanted to placate the Jews so he held Paul in prison
• he wanted to hear Paul but was too frightened to listen
• he was hoping for a bribe from Paul in order to release him
When people act out of self-centredness, they are not in a position to respond to the gospel. We can pray and talk all that we are able, but they have to be in a place where they are willing to either take on the truth with all its implications or to worship God regardless of the cost.
Repentance and faith are gifts from God.
Prayer
Thank you Lord for saving me. I pray that my friends and family who do not yet know you will receive your gift of salvation. Amen.
