Acts 24:3

We accept [it] always, and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness.

{G5037} We accept {G588} it always {G3839}, and {G2532} in all places {G3837}, most noble {G2903} Felix {G5344}, with {G3326} all {G3956} thankfulness {G2169}.

so many reforms in so many areas. It is with the utmost gratitude that we receive this.

In every way and everywhere, most excellent Felix, we acknowledge this with all gratitude.

we accept it in all ways and in all places, most excellent Felix, with all thankfulness.

Commentary

Acts 24:3 is a pivotal verse in the narrative of Paul's trial before the Roman governor Felix, showcasing the opening remarks of Tertullus, a professional orator hired by the Jewish high priest Ananias and the elders to prosecute Paul. This verse captures the moment of intense flattery directed towards Governor Felix.

Historical and Cultural Context

Following his arrest in Jerusalem and subsequent transfer to Caesarea to escape a plot against his life (Acts 23:31), Paul faces formal charges. The Jewish leaders, including the high priest Ananias, traveled to Caesarea to present their case. They employed Tertullus, a skilled advocate, to articulate their accusations. In Roman legal proceedings of this era, it was common practice for advocates to begin their address with elaborate praise and flattery towards the presiding official, aiming to curry favor and predispose the judge positively towards their arguments. This verse exemplifies such a rhetorical strategy, setting the stage for the formal accusation against Paul.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Rhetoric and Manipulation: The verse powerfully illustrates the use of flattery as a manipulative tool in legal and political contexts. Tertullus's effusive praise for Felix is designed to win favor, not to convey genuine admiration.
  • Human Motivation: It highlights the lengths to which individuals or groups will go to achieve their objectives, even resorting to insincere praise and veiled accusations.
  • Contrast with Truth: This opening flattery stands in stark contrast to the straightforward, truthful, and spiritually focused defense that Paul himself will present later (Acts 24:10-21), underscoring the difference between worldly maneuvering and godly integrity.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "We accept [it] always, and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness" is a direct translation of Tertullus's opening words. The KJV adds the word "[it]" in brackets to clarify that they accept the peace and "worthy deeds" mentioned in the preceding verse (Acts 24:2). The title "most noble Felix" (Greek: kratiste Phelix) was a standard respectful address for a Roman governor or official, but Tertullus's extensive preceding praise elevates it beyond mere formality into a clear act of excessive flattery, aiming to influence the judge's disposition.

Practical Application

For believers today, this verse serves as a reminder to exercise discernment. We should be wary of those who use excessive praise or flattery, as it often masks ulterior motives or a desire for personal gain. The account also encourages us to value integrity and truthfulness in our communication, rather than relying on manipulative speech to achieve our ends. Paul's subsequent defense, rooted in the truth of the gospel, provides a powerful counter-example to Tertullus's calculated rhetoric, urging us to stand firm in our convictions without compromising truth for favor.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Acts 26:25

    But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness.

  • Acts 23:26

    Claudius Lysias unto the most excellent governor Felix [sendeth] greeting.

  • Luke 1:3

    It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus,
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