Paul Before the Governors
Paul appeared before three governors.
The commander had sent a letter to Felix, the Roman governor, stating
the charges against him. Five days later the Jewish leaders with their
lawyer, Tertullus , arrived. He presented the Jews' case and Paul
responded to the charges.
Felix kept Paul in prison for two years, sending for him frequently and
talking to him.
Paul next appeared before Festus (who became the Roman governor after
Felix). Again the charges were brought against him and Paul defended
his innocence. He told Festus he wanted to appeal to Caesar to try the
case and his request was granted.
Before the time came for him to be sent to Rome, King Agrippa arrived
in Caesarea with his wife Bernice. Festus discussed the case with
him and the king said he would like to hear Paul speak.
The next day Paul was brought before the king. He told the king of his
conversion and how he had changed from being the persecutor of
Christians to being a Christian himself. Festus accused him of talking
like an insane person. Paul continued reasoning with the two rulers.
Finally the governors left the room. They said to one another that Paul
had done nothing to deserve death or imprisonment. Agrippa said Paul
could have been set free if he had not asked to be sent to Caesar for
trial. We know, of course, that God had plans for Paul in Rome and it
was necessary for him to go.