The preparation was made for Paul’s trial (25:1–5). Festus (25:1) became procurator at a time of considerable unrest including a breakdown in law and order. His visit to Jerusalem, the religious capital of Judea, was intended to placate the Jews. While in Jerusalem, the Jewish leaders sought to reopen Paul’s case. At the Jews’ request, Festus prepared to try Paul (25:6). Festus did not want to alienate the Jewish population of Judea and sought to make concessions to those who accused Paul (25:9). The “appeal to Caesar” (25:11) was one of the most ancient and cherished rights of a Roman citizen. The right applied only to extraordinary cases, that is, those not specifically defined by statute laws. It was usually used to appeal the verdict of a lower court but could be exercised at any stage in the proceedings. The case would then be transferred to Rome and a verdict rendered by the emperor. This allowed Paul to realize his ambition to witness in Rome. At this time, the ruling Caesar was Nero.
25:1–12 Paul’s Defense under Festus
The preparation was made for Paul’s trial (25:1–5). Festus (25:1) became procurator at a time of considerable unrest including a breakdown in law and order. His visit to Jerusalem, the religious capital of Judea, was intended to placate the Jews. While in Jerusalem, the Jewish leaders sought to reopen Paul’s case. At the Jews’ request, Festus prepared to try Paul (25:6). Festus did not want to alienate the Jewish population of Judea and sought to make concessions to those who accused Paul (25:9). The “appeal to Caesar” (25:11) was one of the most ancient and cherished rights of a Roman citizen. The right applied only to extraordinary cases, that is, those not specifically defined by statute laws. It was usually used to appeal the verdict of a lower court but could be exercised at any stage in the proceedings. The case would then be transferred to Rome and a verdict rendered by the emperor. This allowed Paul to realize his ambition to witness in Rome. At this time, the ruling Caesar was Nero.
4 Comments
Bruce
11/10/2015 10:51:50 am
As I was reading this, my thoughts were that God made his plan for Paul to go to Rome happen. Not as dramatic as putting him in the belly of a fish, but still his plan unfolds as he wants, showing again that he is in complete control.
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Tammy
11/11/2015 05:05:04 am
our God puts people in our life daily to help us. Not only for us to see them as Jesus does but for them to help build character traits in Us. It could be patience, or kindness...etc. most times our contact with others is an opportunity to show Jesus love to someone who may never experience that. When he takes the blinders off our eyes and we see others as he sees them.....compassion is there.
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Bruce
11/12/2015 04:58:42 am
Thanks Tammy, You have been a tremendous help to me as take my walk.
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Tammy
11/12/2015 02:14:19 pm
And you have been a help to me as well. Your enthusiasm for our God is so uplifting. Thank you for all you share with us.
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