Translations
Original
Notes
The letter from Claudius Lysias to Governor Felix follows the common form of a Hellenistic letter (a standard Greek-style letter used in that time). It names the writer and the recipient, gives a greeting, and explains the main issue. However, it does not include a closing farewell (see study note on 15:29).
The letter also summarizes the events leading up to it and explains the actions taken. It shows that the commander believed he had followed proper Roman legal procedures.
His Excellency: This title was often used for people with high social, political, or economic status (Luke 1:3).
A large group riding horses safely brought Paul to the Roman governor Felix in Caesarea, the Roman headquarters for Judea. Paul would have more protection there than in Jerusalem. The soldiers carried out the mission that night with great care and secrecy (23:31).
Events
- Paul sent to Felixc. AD 56
People
Felix: Roman governor of Judea; heard Paul's case Lysias: Roman commander who rescued Paul from a Jewish mob
Glossary
Book of the Acts of the Apostles Claudius Lysias Courts and Trials Felix, Antonius History of Israel Letter to the Ephesians Lysias Paul the Apostle Procurator Rome (City) Theophilus
Topics
Caesarea by Roman Soldiers to be Tried by Felix Change of Venue: Granted Paul Christian Minister: Persecution: Paul Claudius Lysius: Sends Paul to Felix Felix: Paul Tried Before Letters: Claudius Lysias to Felix Paul is Escorted to Caesarea by a Military Guard The Roman Empire: Allusions to Judicial Affairs of Accused Person Protected from Popular Violence The Roman Empire: Judea a Province of, Under a Procurator or a Governor