Topical Encyclopedia Drusilla, a notable figure in the New Testament, is mentioned in the Book of Acts as the wife of Felix, the Roman governor of Judea. Her account is intertwined with the early Christian church and the Apostle Paul's ministry.Background and Family Drusilla was born into the Herodian dynasty, a family known for its complex and often tumultuous history. She was the daughter of Herod Agrippa I, the king who is infamous for his persecution of the early church, including the execution of the Apostle James (Acts 12:1-2). Herod Agrippa I was a grandson of Herod the Great, who ruled Judea at the time of Jesus' birth and ordered the massacre of the innocents in Bethlehem (Matthew 2:16). Drusilla had several siblings, including Herod Agrippa II, Bernice, and Mariamne. Her family was deeply entrenched in the political and social fabric of the Roman Empire, often navigating the delicate balance between Jewish traditions and Roman authority. Marriage to Felix Drusilla's marriage to Felix, the Roman procurator of Judea, is a significant aspect of her life. Felix, known for his cruelty and corruption, was appointed by Emperor Claudius and served as governor from approximately AD 52 to 60. Drusilla was originally married to Azizus, the king of Emesa, but Felix, captivated by her beauty, persuaded her to leave her husband and marry him. This act was contrary to Jewish law and customs, highlighting the moral and ethical complexities of her life. Encounter with the Apostle Paul Drusilla's most notable biblical mention occurs in Acts 24, where she is present during the Apostle Paul's trial before Felix. The scripture states, "Several days later, Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was a Jewess. He sent for Paul and listened to him as he spoke about faith in Christ Jesus" (Acts 24:24). This encounter is significant as it illustrates the intersection of early Christianity with the political powers of the time. Paul's discourse with Felix and Drusilla included discussions on righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment (Acts 24:25). Felix, alarmed by Paul's message, dismissed him, saying, "Go away for now. When I have a convenient time, I will send for you" (Acts 24:25). Drusilla's reaction to Paul's teachings is not recorded, leaving her personal response to the gospel message a matter of speculation. Historical and Theological Significance Drusilla's life provides insight into the complexities faced by early Christians as they navigated a world dominated by Roman authority and Hellenistic culture. Her presence at Paul's trial underscores the reach of the gospel message, even into the highest echelons of political power. Her account also reflects the broader narrative of the Herodian dynasty's interactions with the early church, a family often at odds with the burgeoning Christian movement. Drusilla's Jewish heritage and her marriage to a Roman official exemplify the cultural and religious tensions of the period. In summary, Drusilla's life, though briefly mentioned in the biblical text, offers a glimpse into the challenges and opportunities faced by the early church as it spread the message of Christ across diverse and often hostile environments. Her account is a testament to the enduring impact of the gospel, reaching individuals from all walks of life, including those in positions of power and influence. Nave's Topical Index Acts 24:24And after certain days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, which was a Jewess, he sent for Paul, and heard him concerning the faith in Christ. Nave's Topical Index Library Saurin -- Paul Before Felix and Drusilla Paul Before Felix Paul and Felix Paul's Sermon Before Felix Felix is Made Procurator of Judea; as Also Concerning Agrippa ... Paul Before Felix. Acts XXIV The Primitive Church. From Antioch to the Destruction of Jerusalem. The Trial at Caesarea Resources Who was Herod Agrippa II? | GotQuestions.orgNew Testament Individuals ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org Questions about People in the Bible (All) | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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