25:3 25:3

Acts 25:4

25:5 25:5

Bible Versions

But Festus answered, that Paul should be kept at Caesarea, and that he himself would depart shortly [thither].
But {G3303}{G3767} Festus {G5347} answered {G611}, that Paul {G3972} should be kept {G5083} at {G1722} Caesarea {G2542}, and {G1161} that he himself {G1438} would {G3195} depart {G1607}{G1722} shortly {G5034} thither.
Festus replied that Sha’ul was being kept under guard in Caesarea, and that he was about to go there shortly himself.
But Festus replied, “Paul is being held in Caesarea, and I myself am going there soon.
Howbeit Festus answered, that Paul was kept in charge at Cæsarea, and that he himself was about to depart thither shortly.

Context of Acts 25:4

Acts 25:4 is set during the ongoing imprisonment of the Apostle Paul under Roman authority. Following two years under Governor Felix, Paul's case is now inherited by the newly appointed governor, Porcius Festus. The Jewish religious leaders in Jerusalem, who had previously plotted to ambush and kill Paul (Acts 23:12-15), immediately press Festus upon his arrival. They request that Paul be transferred to Jerusalem for trial, intending to carry out their assassination plot en route. Festus's answer in this verse directly rejects their dangerous proposition.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Protection and Providence: Festus's decision to keep Paul in Caesarea, the Roman administrative capital of Judea, was a providential act. Unbeknownst to Festus, his administrative choice thwarted the Jewish leaders' murderous scheme, ensuring Paul's safety for his continued ministry and eventual journey to Rome, which was part of God's plan (Acts 23:11).
  • Roman Legal and Administrative Authority: This verse highlights the practical exercise of Roman governance. Festus, as the new governor, asserts his authority to manage judicial proceedings from Caesarea, which was more convenient and secure than transporting a high-profile prisoner to Jerusalem, a city with frequent unrest.
  • Paul's Steadfastness Amidst Adversity: Despite being a prisoner for an extended period, Paul's situation continues to be governed by external forces. His endurance in these circumstances sets the stage for his subsequent defense before Festus and King Agrippa, and his eventual appeal to Caesar (Acts 25:11).

Linguistic Insights

The KJV text includes the word "thither" in brackets, indicating it's an editorial addition for clarity in English. The original Greek conveys that Festus himself would "depart shortly" to Caesarea, where Paul was being held. This confirms that Festus intended to return to Caesarea to handle Paul's case there, rather than yielding to the Jewish leaders' demand to bring Paul to Jerusalem. The decision effectively moves the legal proceedings to the governor's seat of power.

Practical Application

Acts 25:4 offers a powerful reminder that God's sovereign hand is often at work even in the seemingly ordinary or bureaucratic decisions of human authorities. For believers today, this verse encourages trust in divine providence, even when facing delays, opposition, or uncertain circumstances. It underscores that God can use any situation to protect His servants and advance His purposes, often in ways unseen and unexpected by human actors.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Acts 24:23

    And he commanded a centurion to keep Paul, and to let [him] have liberty, and that he should forbid none of his acquaintance to minister or come unto him.
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