Topical Bible: Advocate: Tertullus

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Topical Encyclopedia

Tertullus is a figure mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Book of Acts. He is known for his role as an advocate or orator who represented the Jewish leaders in their legal proceedings against the Apostle Paul. His involvement is recorded in Acts 24, where he appears as a skilled rhetorician hired to present the case against Paul before the Roman governor, Felix.

Biblical Account

In Acts 24:1-9, Tertullus is introduced as the spokesman for the high priest Ananias and the elders. The passage states: "Five days later, the high priest Ananias came down with some elders and a lawyer named Tertullus, and they brought their charges against Paul to the governor" (Acts 24:1). Tertullus begins his address to Felix with flattery, acknowledging the peace and reforms brought about under Felix's governance. This approach was typical of Roman legal proceedings, where advocates often began with praise to curry favor with the judge.

Tertullus accuses Paul of being a "troublemaker, stirring up riots among the Jews all over the world" and a "ringleader of the Nazarene sect" (Acts 24:5). He also charges Paul with attempting to desecrate the temple, a serious accusation that could warrant severe punishment under Roman law. Tertullus's rhetoric is designed to portray Paul as a threat to both Jewish religious order and Roman political stability.

Role and Significance

Tertullus's role as an advocate highlights the legal and political challenges faced by early Christians. His employment by the Jewish leaders underscores the seriousness with which they viewed Paul's influence and the lengths they were willing to go to suppress the spread of Christianity. The use of a professional orator like Tertullus indicates the formal nature of the proceedings and the desire to present a compelling case against Paul.

From a theological perspective, Tertullus's accusations against Paul can be seen as part of the broader spiritual conflict between the nascent Christian movement and established religious authorities. The charges of sedition and heresy reflect the tension between the transformative message of the Gospel and the existing religious and political structures.

Historical Context

In the Roman judicial system, advocates like Tertullus played a crucial role in legal proceedings. They were often well-versed in rhetoric and law, capable of crafting persuasive arguments to influence the outcome of trials. Tertullus's presence in the trial against Paul illustrates the intersection of Roman legal practices with Jewish religious concerns, as well as the complexities faced by early Christians navigating these systems.

Conclusion

While Tertullus's arguments ultimately did not lead to Paul's conviction, his involvement in the trial serves as a testament to the challenges and opposition faced by the early Church. His role as an advocate provides insight into the legal and rhetorical strategies employed in the ancient world, as well as the broader spiritual and cultural dynamics at play in the spread of Christianity.

Nave's Topical Index

Acts 24:1-9
And after five days Ananias the high priest descended with the elders, and with a certain orator named Tertullus, who informed the governor against Paul.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

But Ithacius, Seeing How Much Ill-Will it Would Excite against Him ...
... Well, a certain Patricius, an advocate connected with the treasury, was then ... Tertullus,
Potamius, and Joannes, as being persons of less consideration, and ...
/.../life and writings of sulpitius severus /chapter li but ithacius seeing.htm

The Teaching of the Apostles.
... first disciples of the apostles, accompanied Paul until he was taken up to the city
of Rome because he had withstood Tertullus the orator. ... "be an advocate."--Tr ...
/.../unknown/the decretals/ancient syriac documents the teaching 2.htm