What is the meaning of Acts 24:4? Setting the Context Tertullus, the hired lawyer for the Jewish leaders, is speaking before Governor Felix during Paul’s trial (Acts 24:1–3). After laying on exaggerated praise—“we have enjoyed lasting peace through you”—he now turns to the formal accusation. His words show a polished courtroom strategy similar to what Psalm 55:21 notes about smooth speech hiding hostility and what Proverbs 26:24–26 warns about flattery concealing evil plans. “But in order not to delay you any further” • Tertullus signals that he will be brief, positioning himself as respectful of the governor’s time—an approach echoed when Agrippa tells Paul, “You are permitted to speak for yourself” (Acts 26:1). • The phrase also implies an urgency to condemn Paul quickly, paralleling the haste of the Sanhedrin in Acts 23:12–15. Compare how Haman likewise sought swift action against the Jews in Esther 3:8–9. • The statement’s courteous veneer obscures a manipulative intent, much like the council’s deceptive rush in Luke 22:66–71. “I beg your indulgence” • Tertullus appeals for patience and favor, mirroring Abigail’s plea to David, “Let your servant speak” (1 Samuel 25:24), and Esther’s request, “If I have found favor in your sight…” (Esther 7:3). • Such flattery contrasts sharply with Paul’s straightforward testimony later in the chapter (Acts 24:10–16; cf. Proverbs 27:6, “Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but deceitful are the kisses of an enemy”). • The lawyer’s tone also recalls the manipulative overtures of Herod’s flatterers in Acts 12:21–22. “to hear us briefly” • Promising brevity aims to keep Felix engaged, similar to when the synagogue leaders invite Paul, “Brothers, if you have a message of encouragement… speak” (Acts 13:15). • Yet the “brief” speech leads into serious, unfounded charges (Acts 24:5–6), exposing the tactic of using polite words to mask hostility—compare Jude 16, which notes grumblers who “flatter people for their own advantage.” • The contrast between Tertullus’s “brief” accusations and Paul’s reasoned defense (Acts 24:10–21) highlights James 1:19’s counsel: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak.” summary Acts 24:4 reveals a polished, strategic opening by Tertullus: courteous, flattering, and seemingly considerate, yet designed to sway Felix toward a swift verdict against Paul. The verse underscores how outward politeness can mask inward corruption, inviting believers to discern motives and to speak truthfully, echoing Paul’s own transparent defense anchored in the gospel (2 Corinthians 4:2; Acts 24:16). |
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