Acts 24:10 kjv
Then Paul, after that the governor had beckoned unto him to speak, answered, Forasmuch as I know that thou hast been of many years a judge unto this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself:
Acts 24:10 nkjv
Then Paul, after the governor had nodded to him to speak, answered: "Inasmuch as I know that you have been for many years a judge of this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself,
Acts 24:10 niv
When the governor motioned for him to speak, Paul replied: "I know that for a number of years you have been a judge over this nation; so I gladly make my defense.
Acts 24:10 esv
And when the governor had nodded to him to speak, Paul replied: "Knowing that for many years you have been a judge over this nation, I cheerfully make my defense.
Acts 24:10 nlt
The governor then motioned for Paul to speak. Paul said, "I know, sir, that you have been a judge of Jewish affairs for many years, so I gladly present my defense before you.
Acts 24 10 Cross References
| Verse | Text | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Acts 24:10 | Then Paul, when Felix had nodded to him to speak, answered: | Paul directly addressing Felix |
| Acts 26:2 | Especially because I know that you are an expert in all Jewish customs and questions. | Paul's familiarity with Jewish law |
| Romans 1:15 | So, as much as is in me, I am ready to preach the gospel to you who are in Rome. | Paul's eagerness to preach |
| 2 Timothy 4:16 | At my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me. | Paul's prior defenses |
| Philippians 1:7 | It is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart, | Paul's concern for fellow believers |
| Acts 23:1 | Then Paul, looking earnestly at the council, said, "Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day." | Paul's testimony of good conscience |
| Acts 25:8 | While Paul said in his defense, "I have neither sinned against the law of the Jews, nor against the temple, nor against Caesar, I have committed nothing." | Paul's prior defenses |
| John 18:36 | Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews. But now my kingdom is not from here." | Christ's testimony of His kingdom |
| Acts 23:6 | But when Paul perceived that one part were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council: "Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee; concerning the hope and resurrection of the dead I am on trial!" | Paul leveraging his background |
| Acts 17:3 | Explaining and presenting that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead, and saying, "This Jesus whom I preach to you is the Christ." | Paul's core message |
| 2 Corinthians 5:11 | Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are well known to God, and I hope also to your consciences. | Paul's persuasive methods |
| Acts 22:1 | "Men, brethren and fathers, hear my defense which I now make to you." | Paul's address to a crowd |
| 1 Peter 3:15 | But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you for the reason for the hope that is in you with meekness and fear. | Mandate for readiness in defense |
| Proverbs 15:1 | A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. | Principle of gentle response |
| Psalm 119:46 | I will also speak of Your testimonies before kings, and shall not be put to shame. | Boldness in testifying |
| Isaiah 51:7 | Hear Me, you who know righteousness, you people in whose heart is My law: Do not fear the reproach of men, nor be afraid of their revilings. | Encouragement against fear |
| Matthew 10:19 | "But when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should speak. For it will be given to you in that same hour what you should speak." | Divine provision in defense |
| Acts 24:16 | This is my hope toward God, which these men themselves also await, that there will be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and the unjust. | Central point of Paul's defense |
| Romans 8:1 | There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. | Security in Christ |
| 1 Corinthians 4:3-4 | But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by a human court. Moreover, I do not even judge myself. | Paul's focus on God's judgment |
Acts 24 verses
Acts 24 10 Meaning
This verse records the Apostle Paul's opening statement to Felix the Roman governor. He directly addresses Felix, indicating that he will willingly make his defense. This reveals Paul's respect for authority and his confidence in the truth of his message, even in the face of accusation. His willingness to defend himself stems from his knowledge that his actions were lawful and consistent with divine revelation.
Acts 24 10 Context
Paul has been falsely accused by the Jewish leadership and brought before Felix, the Roman governor of Judea, in Caesarea. This trial, initiated by Tertullus's accusations, takes place in Chapter 24. Felix has a reputation for corruption and a familiarity with Jewish affairs. Paul's defense in this chapter is crucial as it addresses the charges of sedition, heresy, and profaning the temple. This particular verse marks the beginning of Paul's articulate and reasoned response to these grave accusations, delivered before a powerful political figure.
Acts 24 10 Word Analysis
Paul (Σαυλοῦ, Saulou – referring to himself, though known as Paul): The apostle, the defendant.
when Felix (τοῦ δὲ Φήλικος, tou de Fēlikos – "but of Felix"): Indicates Felix giving Paul permission.
had nodded (γνοὺς, gnous – having known, understood, perceived): Felix understood and granted permission.
to him (αὐτῷ, autō): To Paul.
to speak (εἰπεῖν, sipein – to say, speak): To commence his defense.
answered (ἀποκριθεὶς, apokritheis – answering, responding): The participle implies a direct reply initiated by the nod. This sets the stage for a deliberate and considered response.
Paul's readiness to speak: The phrasing emphasizes a willing and poised response, not one of fear or hesitation.
The granting of leave by Felix: The "nod" signifies a formal, though perhaps casual, allowance for Paul to present his case.
The posture of the defense: Paul begins not by denying the accusations directly, but by making a positive affirmation of his life and beliefs before the governor, which shows confidence.
Acts 24 10 Bonus Section
Paul's strategy here contrasts with that of his accusers, who began with flattery and vehement accusations. Paul, instead, addresses the governor directly, acknowledging his authority and the opportunity to speak. His confidence is not in his own eloquence, but in the truth he represents and the power of God to vindicate him. This moment reflects Jesus’ instruction in Matthew 10:18-20 that His followers would be brought before governors and kings, and they should not worry about what to say, for the Holy Spirit would provide the words.
Acts 24 10 Commentary
Paul's opening to Felix is strategic. He immediately establishes a respectful yet confident tone. His willingness to "speak" implies a ready and prepared defense. He is not merely reacting to accusations but actively presenting his position. His opening lines would aim to disarm Felix by suggesting reasonableness and honesty, rather than defiance. Paul’s assurance is rooted in his clear conscience and his understanding of the law, both Roman and Jewish, and how his actions align with his faith in Jesus.