What can we learn from Festus' approach to seeking counsel in Acts 25:26? Setting the Scene in Caesarea Acts 25 places Paul before Festus, the newly appointed governor. Unsure how to frame charges against Paul for the emperor, Festus invites King Agrippa and prominent citizens to hear the case. Acts 25:26 records his motive: “Yet I have nothing definite to write to His Majesty about him. Therefore I have brought him before all of you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that as a result of this investigation I may have something to write.” Festus’ Practical Steps • Acknowledged his own limits—“I have nothing definite to write” • Sought knowledgeable voices—“before all of you…especially before you, King Agrippa” • Aimed for clarity and truth—“so that… I may have something to write” Lessons From Festus’ Search for Counsel 1. Recognize When We Need Help • Admitting uncertainty is not weakness; it prevents rash decisions (Proverbs 18:13). 2. Gather Multiple Witnesses • Safety is found “in an abundance of counselors” (Proverbs 11:14). • Festus convened a public hearing, ensuring transparency (cf. Deuteronomy 19:15). 3. Seek Qualified, Informed Advisors • Agrippa understood Jewish law and could weigh Paul’s defense accurately. • Likewise, wise counsel must be spiritually and factually informed (Acts 15:6; 1 Corinthians 6:5). 4. Pursue Truth, Not Confirmation • Festus did not tailor the outcome; he wanted facts to report. • We guard against echo chambers by welcoming honest evaluation (Proverbs 27:6). 5. Provide a Clear Account • Festus’ end goal—“something to write”—mirrors the biblical call for orderly testimony (Luke 1:3-4; 1 Peter 3:15). Counsel: Human and Divine • Scripture commends godly advice, yet ultimate wisdom comes from God (James 1:5). • Festus turned to earthly authorities; believers have direct access to the Wonderful Counselor (Isaiah 9:6). • Balancing both: listen horizontally to saints, but submit vertically to the Lord (Psalm 32:8). Putting It Into Practice Today • Pause and admit when details are missing. • Invite mature believers who know the situation and the Word. • Encourage open dialogue; suppressing facts breeds injustice. • Filter every recommendation through Scripture’s unchanging standard (Acts 17:11). • Document decisions clearly, leaving no room for misrepresentation. |
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