Tertul'lus is a figure mentioned in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically in the Book of Acts. He is identified as a skilled orator and lawyer who was employed by the Jewish religious leaders to present their case against the Apostle Paul before the Roman governor, Felix. The account of Tertul'lus is found in Acts 24:1-9.

Biblical Account:

In Acts 24, Tertul'lus is introduced as the advocate for the high priest Ananias and the elders who had come down from Jerusalem to Caesarea to accuse Paul. 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 before the governor" (Acts 24:1). Tertul'lus is depicted as a professional rhetorician, likely chosen for his eloquence and ability to persuade Roman officials.

Role and Speech:

Tertul'lus begins his speech with flattery towards Felix, a common rhetorical strategy in Roman legal proceedings. He says, "We have enjoyed a long period of peace under you, and your foresight has brought about reforms in this nation. Everywhere and in every way, most excellent Felix, we acknowledge this with profound gratitude" (Acts 24:2-3). This introduction sets the stage for the accusations against Paul, which Tertul'lus presents as follows:

1. Disturbance and Sedition: Tertul'lus accuses Paul of being a troublemaker who stirs up riots among Jews throughout the Roman Empire. He states, "We have found this man to be a pest, stirring up dissension among Jews all over the world" (Acts 24:5).

2. Leadership of a Sect: He charges Paul with being a ringleader of the "sect of the Nazarenes," implying that Paul is part of a dangerous and unauthorized religious movement (Acts 24:5).

3. Desecration of the Temple: Tertul'lus claims that Paul attempted to desecrate the Jewish temple, an accusation that would have been particularly serious in the eyes of both Jewish and Roman authorities (Acts 24:6).

Historical and Cultural Context:

Tertul'lus' role as an orator reflects the legal practices of the Roman Empire, where skilled advocates were often employed to present cases before governors and other officials. His use of flattery and formal accusations aligns with the rhetorical conventions of the time. The charges against Paul were designed to appeal to Roman concerns about public order and the potential for unrest, as well as to Jewish concerns about religious purity and authority.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, Tertul'lus' accusations against Paul highlight the early Christian conflict with both Jewish authorities and the Roman state. The charges of sedition and heresy reflect the tension between the nascent Christian movement and established religious and political structures. Tertul'lus' role in this narrative underscores the challenges faced by the early Church in proclaiming the Gospel amidst opposition and misunderstanding.

Conclusion of the Account:

After Tertul'lus presents his case, Paul is given the opportunity to defend himself. The Apostle refutes the accusations, emphasizing his peaceful conduct and his adherence to the Jewish faith and customs. The governor Felix, familiar with "the Way," adjourns the proceedings, leaving Paul in custody but with some freedoms (Acts 24:22-23). This encounter with Tertul'lus is part of the broader narrative of Paul's trials and his unwavering commitment to his mission despite legal and social challenges.Tertul'lus (2 Occurrences)

Acts 24:1
And after five days came down the chief priest Ananias, with the elders, and a certain orator -- Tertullus, and they made manifest to the governor 'the things' against Paul;
(See RSV)

Acts 24:2
and he having been called, Tertullus began to accuse 'him', saying, 'Much peace enjoying through thee, and worthy deeds being done to this nation through thy forethought,
(See RSV)

Tertul'lus (2 Occurrences)
Tertul'lus. Tertullus, Tertul'lus. Test . Multi-Version Concordance
Tertul'lus (2 Occurrences). Acts 24:1 And after five days came ...
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Tertullus (2 Occurrences)

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Test (105 Occurrences)

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