Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Acts 24:4

"But, that I be not further tedious unto thee, I entreat thee to hear us of thy clemency a few words." — Acts 24:4 (ASV)

Tertullus began the case for the prosecution with the customary flattery for the judge in words chosen for his purpose. Many Jews would have been shocked to hear the high priest’s mouthpiece attributing “a long period of peace” and “reforms” to Felix’s administration; and few would have joined in any expression of “profound gratitude” for the governor’s frequent displays of ferocity, cruelty, and greed. But Tertullus knew how to appeal to Felix’s vanity. It was also customary to promise brevity, though such is human nature that the promise was rarely kept.