Felix Φῆλιξ
Roman governor of Judea; heard Paul's case.
Who is Felix in the Bible?
Felix was a Roman procurator of Judea who served from approximately 52 to 60 AD and is mentioned in Acts 23 and 24 as the official who heard the case against the apostle Paul. After Jewish leaders accused Paul of being a troublemaker and inciting riots, Paul was brought before Felix in Caesarea, where he defended himself and spoke about his faith in Christ (Acts 24:10-21). Though Felix was familiar with Christianity, he postponed his decision and kept Paul in custody for two years, hoping to receive a bribe from the apostle (Acts 24:22-26). When Paul spoke before Felix about righteousness, self-control, and coming judgment, Felix became afraid, yet he still refused to release Paul and left him imprisoned when his successor arrived (Acts 24:25, 27). Felix's encounter with Paul demonstrates how even those in positions of worldly power can be confronted with the truth of the gospel, yet reject it when it conflicts with their desires.
Biography
Felix was a Roman procurator (governor) of Judea who served from approximately 52 to 60 AD. He is mentioned in the book of Acts in connection with the apostle Paul's imprisonment and trial. Paul was brought before Felix in Caesarea after being accused by the Jewish leaders of being a troublemaker and inciting riots (Act.23.24, 26). During the hearing, Paul defended himself against the charges and spoke about his faith in Christ (Act.24.10-21). Felix, who was well-informed about Christianity, postponed making a decision and kept Paul in custody, hoping to receive a bribe from him (Act.24.22-26). Felix also heard Paul speak about righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment, which caused him to be afraid (Act.24.25). However, Felix left Paul in prison for two years until his successor, Porcius Festus, took office (Act.24.27). The account of Paul's interaction with Felix highlights the challenges faced by early Christians in the face of Roman authority and the corruption within the judicial system.
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In Scripture
1 biblical book ; 1 with study contentActs 5 verses
- Acts 23:24
"Provide mounts for Paul to take him safely to Governor Felix.”"
Study Acts → - Acts 23:26
"Claudius Lysias, To His Excellency, Governor Felix: Greetings."
Study Acts → - Acts 24:3
"In every way and everywhere, most excellent Felix, we acknowledge this with all gratitude."
Study Acts → - Acts 24:22
"Then Felix, who was well informed about the Way, adjourned the hearing and said, “When Lysias the commander comes, I will decide your case.”"
Study Acts → - Acts 24:24
"After several days, Felix returned with his wife Drusilla, who was a Jewess. He sent for Paul and listened to him speak about faith in Christ Jesus."
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Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Greek | Φῆλιξ |