v 14 But I admit that I follow the Way, which they call a cult. I worship the God of our ancestors, and I firmly believe the Jewish law and everything written in the prophets.
This Roman Governor was neither popular nor fair in the way he ruled in Judea. Contemporary literature portrays him as money-grabbing and susceptible to bribes (look ahead to verse 26) It appears that in 58AD he organised the murder of the Jewish High Priest of the time who had dared to criticise the way Felix ruled. It is also known that Felix married a Jewish woman, Drusilla, who joined Felix in listening to Paul preaching. (see verse 24) This trial of Paul took place around 58AD, and Paul remained in prison for the rest of the Felix’ time in office until he returned to Rome in about 60AD.
It seems that Felix had some earlier contact with Christian teaching as we find in verse 22 that he was familiar with ‘The Way’ – an early name given to Christian faith. Hence Paul was upfront in speaking about the Hebrew Scriptures and his belief in what was written. It would have been hard to find a more sympathetic listener and judge; in fact, Felix was but a short step from accepting the need for repentance and to follow Jesus.
So what stopped him?.
It wasn’t ignorance of the issues involved that’s for sure
But it seems that he also knew that Paul was unpopular among the Jewish leaders – and popularity meant a great deal to Felix. Why upset the Jews any more than necessary, especially as having Paul as a prisoner might give him additional income by way of bribes?
How very 21st Century! Money can talk louder even than an informed conscience. So Felix had learned to live with his conscience, and preferred to remain in the shadowy land of selfish desire, keeping all ideas of faith and righteousness at arm’s length.
And remain blind, in the dark, about the consequences of his actions.
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