Tyndale Open Study NotesActs 25

Felix’s successor was Porcius Festus. Nero appointed him as governor of Judea around AD 59–62. Josephus describes Festus as a careful and honest leader. However, he could not stop the growing unrest among the Jewish people, even though he took strong action against the Assassins (a violent group also called the Sicarii; Josephus, Antiquities 20.8.10; see also Acts 21:38).

Festus refused the Jewish leaders’ request to move Paul’s trial to Jerusalem, but he still felt their pressure (25:9).

The serious accusations were likely the ones mentioned earlier (21:27–28; 24:5–9). But there was no evidence to support them (24:10–13).

Festus, wishing to do the Jews a favor: The governor later gave an official reason for delaying Paul's trial and asking to move it to Jerusalem (25:17–20). However, politics, not justice, motivated his request.

Festus suggested that Paul have his trial in Jerusalem, which led Paul to appeal to Caesar. Paul did not fear death, but he opposed being transferred to a court biased toward condemnation, not justice (25:7).

Festus approved Paul's request. This confirmed Paul's belief that he must visit Rome (19:21; see also 23:11; 27:24; Romans 1:13–15; 15:22–29).

Festus discussed Paul’s case with Herod Agrippa II, who came to Caesarea to pay a courtesy visit to the new governor. Herod Agrippa II ruled parts of the region from AD 50–100.

This was a fundamental principle: Roman law did not convict people without a trial. They must be given an opportunity to confront their accusers and defend themselves (see 19:38–39). This showed Roman legal procedures in a positive way.

I did not delay: This is different from Felix, the previous governor, who delayed making a decision (24:22–27).

These verses provide the official reasons Festus gave for his actions (see also 25:9). There were no criminal charges against Paul. The objections were about their religion and focused on Paul's claim that Jesus is alive.

Paul's legal hearing before King Agrippa included all the ceremony of a royal visit. The main purpose was for Agrippa to advise Festus on what to write in the appeal to Caesar. There was no clear charge against Paul. Festus believed Paul had done nothing deserving death.