Acts 24 4

Acts 24:4 kjv

Notwithstanding, that I be not further tedious unto thee, I pray thee that thou wouldest hear us of thy clemency a few words.

Acts 24:4 nkjv

Nevertheless, not to be tedious to you any further, I beg you to hear, by your courtesy, a few words from us.

Acts 24:4 niv

But in order not to weary you further, I would request that you be kind enough to hear us briefly.

Acts 24:4 esv

But, to detain you no further, I beg you in your kindness to hear us briefly.

Acts 24:4 nlt

But I don't want to bore you, so please give me your attention for only a moment.

Acts 24 verses

Acts 24 4 Meaning

Tertullus, the advocate speaking on behalf of Paul's Jewish accusers, respectfully states to Governor Felix that he will endeavor not to overly burden him with a prolonged presentation. He then formally requests that Felix, out of his presumed good nature and fairness, would graciously allow them a concise hearing of their charges. This statement functions as a rhetorical bridge, transitioning from the previous lavish flattery to the specific accusations against Paul.

Acts 24 4 Context

Acts chapter 24 records the formal trial of the Apostle Paul before Governor Antonius Felix in Caesarea, the administrative capital of Judea. This verse, Acts 24:4, is uttered by Tertullus, the Roman orator (legal counsel) specifically hired by the Jewish High Priest Ananias and the elders to present the case against Paul. It follows an effusive opening where Tertullus has excessively praised Governor Felix's administrative prowess and leadership in bringing peace and reforms to the province (Acts 24:2-3). This rhetorical approach, known as captatio benevolentiae in Roman oratory, aims to secure the goodwill of the judge before the actual accusations are presented. The verse, therefore, transitions from this highly complimentary introduction to the specific charges. The historical context is a Roman judicial hearing where governors wield considerable discretionary power (imperium). Governor Felix himself was notorious for his cruelty, moral laxity, and corruption, making Tertullus's flattering words and appeal to his "kindness" a calculated, and deeply ironic, rhetorical maneuver aimed at manipulating the verdict in favor of Paul's accusers.

Acts 24 4 Word analysis

• But (μέν - men): This Greek particle functions here as a mild transitional element. It signals a shift from the introductory flattery to the core subject, allowing the speaker to smoothly pivot to his next point without a harsh break.

• that I may not weary (μὴ ἐγκοπτοίην - mē enkoptioien):

  • Mē (μὴ): "Lest," serving as a negative conjunction expressing a purpose: to prevent wearying.
  • Enkopto (ἐγκόπτω): Means "to cut into," "to hinder," "to interrupt," or "to burden." Here, it signifies causing fatigue or annoyance by prolonged speech. The phrase indicates Tertullus's feigned politeness, showing awareness of Felix's time and position.

• you further (ἐπὶ πλεῖον - epi pleion): Meaning "more" or "at greater length." It intensifies the idea of "wearying," indicating a desire to avoid being overly expansive in his address to the governor.

• I beg you (παρακαλῶ - parakalō): Literally "to call alongside," but often meaning "to urge," "to entreat," "to implore," or "to make an earnest request." This is a formal and respectful appeal from Tertullus to Felix, signifying a subordinate's deferential request to an authority figure.

• to hear (ἀκοῦσαί - akousai): "To listen" or "to attend to." This is the direct request for Felix's judicial attention to the presented case.

• us (ἡμῶν - hēmōn): The plural pronoun signifies Tertullus speaking for himself, the High Priest Ananias, and the Jewish elders present, collectively representing the accusers.

• briefly (συντόμως - syntomōs): An adverb meaning "concisely," "succinctly," or "in summary." It's a professional assurance that the main points of their accusation will be presented efficiently and without unnecessary detail, appealing to judicial efficiency.

• in your kindness (τῇ σῇ ἐπιεικείᾳ - tē sē epieikeia):

  • Sē (σῇ): The possessive pronoun "your," emphasizing a personal appeal to Felix.
  • Epieikeia (ἐπιείκεια): A rich Greek term implying "gentleness," "moderation," "fairness," "equity," "reasonableness," or even "magnanimity." It refers to the quality of being able to discern beyond the strict letter of the law and apply what is equitable and just. By invoking Felix's "kindness," Tertullus not only flatters him but subtly suggests that a fair hearing, potentially leading to a judgment in their favor, aligns with the governor's supposedly virtuous character.

• "But that I may not weary you further, I beg you": This grouping illustrates Tertullus's rhetorical skill. By appearing considerate of Felix's time and rank, he aims to cultivate goodwill, thereby increasing the likelihood that his subsequent requests and accusations will be received favorably. It's a calculated act of deference designed to manipulate the judicial atmosphere.

• "to hear us briefly in your kindness": This phrase combines the request for a hearing with a strong appeal to Felix's presumed noble qualities. "Briefly" shows respect for court protocol. "In your kindness" is a plea for not just a hearing, but one given with favor and equitable judgment. This implies Tertullus hopes Felix will rule not just according to the law, but also with a disposition of understanding and leniency towards the accusers' demands, reflecting Roman governors' judicial discretion.

Acts 24 4 Bonus section

• Tertullus, being a professional orator likely trained in Roman rhetorical schools, would have meticulously crafted his speech according to the conventions of his time. The use of an exordium (introduction aiming to capture goodwill, Acts 24:2-3) followed by a polite request for attention (Acts 24:4) before presenting the narratio (statement of facts) and probatio (proofs), aligns perfectly with classical Roman legal rhetoric.
• The contrast between Tertullus's manipulative flattery and appeals to Felix's epieikeia, and Paul's subsequent straightforward and truthful defense (Acts 24:10-21), highlights a deeper spiritual conflict. Paul does not resort to worldly schemes but speaks plain truth, demonstrating reliance on God's vindication rather than human favor.

Acts 24 4 Commentary

Acts 24:4 functions as a strategic maneuver within Tertullus's elaborate address to Governor Felix. Following an overtly flattering preamble, this verse serves as a crucial rhetorical pivot, assuring Felix of conciseness while subtly preying on his ego. The promise not to "weary you further" implies respect for Felix's time and status, an essential courtesy in Roman legal proceedings. The earnest plea "I beg you to hear us briefly" confirms the upcoming direct presentation of charges, highlighting judicial efficiency. However, the true rhetorical thrust lies in "in your kindness" (epieikeia). This term, implying equity and fairness beyond strict legalism, is ironically applied to a historically corrupt Governor Felix. Tertullus here leverages a standard legal appeal to a judge's virtue, seeking to predispose Felix to a benevolent and perhaps biased, consideration of their case. This exchange thus demonstrates worldly legal maneuvering, where truth and justice are intertwined with political appeal and strategic flattery, ultimately seeking a judgment for self-interest rather than divine truth.