Welcome to BibleBum where we are exploring the entire Bible in one year to better learn how to follow God’s instructions and discover the purpose for our lives.  The BibleBum blog uses The One Year Chronological Bible, the New Living Translation version.  At the end of each day’s reading, Rob, a cultural history aficionado and seminary graduate, answers questions from Leigh An, the blogger host, about the daily scripture.  To start from the beginning, click on “Index” and select Day 1.

Acts 24-26:32

Questions & Observations

Q. (Acts 24:1-27): Felix sounds conflicted between wanting to accept the Way and remaining in favor with the Jews.

A. I don’t think he is interested in becoming a Christian — he’s just aware of the movement — but he is indeed being a politician regarding currying the Jews’ favor.  The region was rife with revolutionaries who will seek to violently overthrow Roman rule in a few years, so Felix is certainly interested in looking good to his boss, the emperor, by keeping the peace in a lawless area.

Q. (25:1-22): I think it’s interesting to see politics play into justice the same way it can today.  They are tempted by what would seem right and make their lives better vs. doing what is right by the court law.

A. It’s a unique story in the NT, that is for sure.

Q. (Acts 25:23-26:32): So the last line was a surprise.  Paul appealed to Caesar for his defense because, as a Roman citizen, he has the right to, right?  But, now since he appealed to him he is required to go even if the Jews find him innocent?  There must be a reason that he has to go to Rome.  Time will tell, right?

A. Paul did so intentionally in order to have the chance to proclaim the Gospel, just as he did here.  We will indeed see how this goes…