Chapter 25:
Defense #4 – Festus took over for Felix and was kinda’ stuck.
He knew Paul innocent, but to release him would anger leaders and provoke a riot among the Jews. Wanting to keep peace, both Felix and Festus sought cooperation from Jewish leaders. Felix just left Paul in prison two years. Festus inherits this problem and suggests going to Jerusalem for trial – a place he knew would be “unfair” but would please Jewish leaders. This left Paul no choice but to appeal to Caesar which caused a new problem. Festus was required to send a report with Paul detailing charges against him but the charges were not worthy of trial (religious & theological). So………..Festus needed help and so he consulted Agrippa and Agrippa agreed to hear from Paul!
Festus turns Paul’s hearing into an occasion to honor Agrippa (pomp) – i.e. butter him up! Paul was not legally bound to appear before them but what a great witnessing opportunity! So in chapter 26, Paul will give his 5th defense!
SO WHAT?
*When are you most tempted to compromise the truth to please others? Lets heed the words in Galatians 1:10 and put God first!
*Ever been guilty of “buttering up” your parents, your boss, etc… to get what you want? Yeah – me too! How about a better alternative: Lets pray and then trust God for His will and then be content in every situation! (Philippians 4:12)
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