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not the leader of a subversive organization. The evil organization is the one trying to get rid of
him. The last act will be profaning the temple. Tertullus is also commending Felix for
performing worthy deeds. This is not the truth because during this time Felix is extorting
money from the people to add to his own fortune. He did this in Rome and is doing the same
thing in Judea.

Act 24:2 And when he was called upon, Tertullus began his accusation, saying: "Seeing that
through you we enjoy great peace, and prosperity is being brought to this nation by your
foresight,

Act 24:3 we accept it always and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness.

This is all flattery and lies.

Act 24:4 Nevertheless, not to be tedious to you any further, I beg you to hear, by your
courtesy, a few words from us.

In other words, “I could go on and on about your greatness, but give me just enough time for a
few words.”
24:4 courtesy, epieikeia (ep-ee-eye-ki-ah); Graciousness, gentleness, clemency,
moderation, sweet reasonableness, mildness, fairness, kindness, forbearance, what is
right or fitting. In 2 Corinthians 10:1, epieikeia is an attribute of God. Here it is an appeal
to Felix to show the customary graciousness befitting his high office. Christians can
display epieikeia in virtue of their divine calling.

Act 24:5 For we have found this man a plague, a creator of dissension among all the Jews
throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes.

For we have found this man (Paul) a pestilent fellow (a plague), and a mover of sedition (causer
of riots) among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the
Nazarenes:

Paul is being called subversive and a ringleader of a group to overthrow the Jewish government.
He is also accused of causing race riots. Felix does not know what a Nazarene is, but the lawyer
is making this as full of intrigue as possible.

Act 24:6 He even tried to profane the temple, and we seized him, and wanted to judge him
according to our law.

By profaning the temple, he broke both Jewish and Roman law. Rome protected the temple. If
the Jews thought it was holy, then it was important to Rome and peace to protect it. Profaning
the temple meant Paul was stealing from it. This is designed to anger Felix because he too is
stealing from the Jewish treasuries and does not need competition.