Righteousness, Self-Control, and Judgment

Felix returns with Drusilla and asks Paul to speak about faith in Christ Jesus. Paul does not flatter the governor or make the message vague. He speaks about righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment.

As Paul expounded on righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment, Felix became frightened.

Felix sends Paul away, saying he will call for him at a convenient time. Yet he continues to summon Paul and hopes for a bribe. Two years pass, and Felix leaves Paul in prison to gain favor with the Jews. A moment of conviction does not become repentance when it is repeatedly postponed.

Felix comes with Drusilla, his Jewish wife, and sends for Paul to hear him speak about faith in Christ Jesus. Paul does not tailor the message to protect the governor's comfort. He reasons about righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment, bringing the gospel into the areas where Felix's power and conduct are most exposed.

Felix becomes frightened and sends Paul away, promising to call for him when he has an opportunity. The opportunity is repeatedly postponed. Felix also hopes that Paul will offer him money, so he sends for Paul more often and talks with him. After two years, Felix is succeeded by Porcius Festus, but he leaves Paul in prison to gain favor with the Jews.

The passage distinguishes conviction from repentance. Felix feels fear, but he does not surrender his greed or his political calculation. Hearing the truth can become another way to delay if a person keeps waiting for a more convenient time. Paul remains faithful to the message even when the powerful listener is not ready to receive it.