Acts 25 4

Acts 25:4 kjv

But Festus answered, that Paul should be kept at Caesarea, and that he himself would depart shortly thither.

Acts 25:4 nkjv

But Festus answered that Paul should be kept at Caesarea, and that he himself was going there shortly.

Acts 25:4 niv

Festus answered, "Paul is being held at Caesarea, and I myself am going there soon.

Acts 25:4 esv

Festus replied that Paul was being kept at Caesarea and that he himself intended to go there shortly.

Acts 25:4 nlt

But Festus replied that Paul was at Caesarea and he himself would be returning there soon.

Acts 25 verses

Acts 25 4 Meaning

The verse states that Paul was told to expect his trial in Caesarea, implying that no immediate move to Rome was planned for his judgment at that moment. Festus, the new governor, intended to hear the case himself before deciding on further action, likely following Roman legal procedures. This situation presented an opportunity for Paul to again present his defense and appeal to Caesar if the Jewish authorities brought charges.

Acts 25 4 Context

The chapter follows Paul's imprisonment and the preliminary hearing before the Jewish Sanhedrin in Jerusalem. The Jewish leaders, still plotting to kill Paul, brought their accusations before Felix, the Roman governor, who postponed the decision and left Paul imprisoned for two years. Now, the new governor, Festus, arrives. The Jewish leaders see this as a fresh opportunity to pursue their case against Paul and urge Festus to transfer Paul to Jerusalem for trial, likely so they could ambush and kill him along the way. However, Festus indicates that Paul will be tried in Caesarea, where the previous hearing took place, and under his direct authority as governor.

Acts 25 4 Word analysis

• ἀλλ (all): This is a conjunctive particle meaning "but" or "however," indicating a contrast with a preceding idea. In this case, it signals a shift in the narrative as Festus addresses the Jewish leaders after their request.
• ἐξητασθηναι (exetasthēnai): This is the second person singular aorist passive subjunctive of the Greek verb ἐξετάζω (exetazō), meaning "to examine," "to investigate," or "to inquire into." In this context, it implies that Paul himself was to be examined and his case investigated. The passive voice highlights that he is the object of this action, being brought before a tribunal.
• ἐν (en): A preposition meaning "in" or "at." Here, it indicates the location of the examination.
• Καισαρειᾳ (Kaisareia): The proper noun referring to Caesarea Maritima, a significant Roman administrative center in Judea, where Paul was often held. It was a city built by Herod the Great, showcasing Roman influence and architecture.
• Ἕτοιμος (Hetoimos): An adjective meaning "ready" or "prepared." It suggests Festus was prepared and willing to conduct the examination in Caesarea.
• εἵξειν (heixein): The future active infinitive of the Greek verb ἔχω (echō), often translated as "to hold," "to have," or "to keep." In this context, it conveys the sense of Paul being "kept" or "retained" in Caesarea for his trial, not sent back to Jerusalem. It implies the proceedings would continue in that location.

Words-group analysis

• “But Festus, when he had gone from Jerusalem to Caesarea…”: This phrase sets the scene and indicates Festus's actions after arriving in his new province and engaging with the Jewish leaders. It establishes the transition of jurisdiction and location.
• “…ordered that the man should be brought to Caesarea and kept in Herod’s praetorium.”: This group of words reveals Festus's decision regarding Paul's trial. He recognizes the political implications and likely the futility of appeasing the Jewish leadership beyond a certain point, opting for the more secure and proper venue under his own jurisdiction. Herod's praetorium (palace/headquarters) was the Roman administrative center, emphasizing the shift to Roman legal authority.

Acts 25 4 Bonus section

The selection of Caesarea as the location for the trial is crucial. Caesarea was the seat of Roman government in Judea. It was a cosmopolitan city, reflecting Roman and Hellenistic influence, contrasting with the religious intensity of Jerusalem. Holding the trial here indicated that the case would be handled by Roman, not Jewish, authority, a key aspect of Paul's legal defense and protection as a Roman citizen. The reference to "Herod's praetorium" highlights the continuity of Roman governance, as this building was part of the impressive urban infrastructure established by Herod the Great and now utilized by Roman officials. This setting allowed for a more formal and observable legal process.

Acts 25 4 Commentary

Festus, a new administrator, demonstrates a pragmatic approach. He acknowledges the request of the Jewish leadership but recognizes his duty to uphold Roman law and administer justice under his authority. The decision to keep Paul in Caesarea instead of returning him to Jerusalem is significant. It means Paul will face his accusers within a Roman judicial framework, offering a degree of protection from the immediate threat of assassination by his enemies. The "praetorium" was the official residence or headquarters of the governor, a place where such legal proceedings would normally take place. Paul’s case is progressing, but he remains a prisoner awaiting judgment, underlining his continued appeal to Caesar for resolution.