Felix’s Procrastination and Paul’s Faithfulness

Acts 24:22–27 (NASB95) 

22But Felix, having a more exact knowledge about the Way, put them off, saying, “When Lysias the commander comes down, I will decide your case.” 23Then he gave orders to the centurion for him to be kept in custody and yet have some freedom, and not to prevent any of his friends from ministering to him. 24But some days later Felix arrived with Drusilla, his wife who was a Jewess, and sent for Paul and heard him speak about faith in Christ Jesus. 25But as he was discussing righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix became frightened and said, “Go away for the present, and when I find time I will summon you.” 26At the same time too, he was hoping that money would be given him by Paul; therefore he also used to send for him quite often and converse with him. 27But after two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus, and wishing to do the Jews a favor, Felix left Paul imprisoned. 

Paul’s trial before Felix takes an unexpected turn as the governor delays making a decision, keeping Paul in custody for two years. Felix, though knowledgeable about “the Way,” is more concerned with political convenience and personal gain than justice. He avoids offending the Jewish leaders by neither convicting nor releasing Paul, while also hoping for a bribe from Paul or his supporters. Despite this injustice, Paul remains faithful, using the opportunity to share the Gospel with Felix and his wife, Drusilla. Paul boldly speaks about righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment, which causes Felix to tremble but not repent. This passage highlights the tension between human corruption and God’s sovereignty, as God uses even Felix’s procrastination to further His purposes for Paul’s mission. 

Paul’s experience reminds us to remain faithful and bold in sharing the Gospel, even when faced with injustice or delay. Like Paul, we must trust in God’s timing and sovereignty, knowing that He can use even difficult circumstances to accomplish His purposes. This passage also challenges us to examine our own hearts, ensuring that we do not, like Felix, delay responding to God’s truth. As the modern church, let us be courageous in proclaiming the message of Jesus, trusting that God’s Word will not return void, and remaining steadfast in our faith, even in seasons of waiting.