Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Acts 24:25

"And as he reasoned of righteousness, and self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was terrified, and answered, Go thy way for this time; and when I have a convenient season, I will call thee unto me." — Acts 24:25 (ASV)

Added to the description of Felix’s response is this vignette about the interaction between the Roman governor, his Jewish wife, and the Christian apostle, which elaborates further the nature of Felix’s response and highlights one aspect of Paul’s continued, though restricted, ministry while under protective custody at Caesarea. Drusilla apparently still had some qualms of conscience about her marriage to Felix and therefore took the opportunity to send for Paul in order to hear his message. Paul spoke to Felix and his wife about the necessity of “faith in Christ Jesus” (v.24). He also made it plain that this involved an ethical life, for he spoke of “righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come” (v.25)—three subjects Felix and Drusilla particularly needed to learn about! Felix ordered him to stop, for he became afraid in the presence of such preaching. Apparently Drusilla was offended by what she considered Paul’s moralistic ranting, for Luke makes no mention of her having listened to him again. Felix’s corruption led him to call Paul often before him in hope of getting a bribe for his release. He must have believed that Paul had access to some money—perhaps through a large number of Christian friends who visited him (cf. 24:23; 27:3).