Acts 25

Acts 25:7

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).

Acts 25:9

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.

Acts 25:10-11

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).

Acts 25:12

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).

Acts 25:13-22

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.

Acts 25:16

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.

Acts 25:17

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

Acts 25:18-20

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.

Acts 25:23-27

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.

Aquifer Open Study Notes © 2026 Mission Mutual, an adaptation of the Tyndale Open Study Notes © 2023 Tyndale House Publishers. Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.