Albert Barnes Commentary Acts 25:1

"Festus therefore, having come into the province, after three days went up to Jerusalem from Caesarea." — Acts 25:1 (ASV)

CHAPTER 25

Now when Festus was come. (See Barnes on Acts 24:27).

Into the province. The province of Judea; for Judea at that time was a Roman province.

After three days. Having remained three days at Caesarea.

He ascended. This was the usual language that described a journey to Jerusalem. Thus, English people speak of going up to London, because it is the capital. (See Barnes on Acts 15:1).

To Jerusalem. The governors of Judea at this time usually resided at Caesarea; but as Jerusalem had been the former capital; as it was still the seat of the religious solemnities; as the Sanhedrin held its meetings there; and as the prominent, rich, and learned men, and the priests resided there, it is evident that a full knowledge of the state of the province could be obtained only there. Festus therefore, having entered upon the duties of his office, early went to Jerusalem to acquaint himself with the affairs of the nation.