Acts 25:13-27
Now when some days had passed, Agrippa the king and Bernice arrived at Caesarea and greeted Festus. (v. 13) Just reading through the text in the past and not studying the notes, I had assumed that Agrippa and Bernice were husband and wife, king and queen. However, it turns out that they were brother and sister – with substantial rumors of an incestual relationship between them. And as for how Agrippa fits into this picture with Festus, it’s much the same relationship as some years prior with King Herod and Pontius Pilate – Festus was a governor serving under King Agrippa.
It appears that Agrippa’s visit to Festus is simply a kingly courtesy. Festus was a new governor, having replaced Felix, and Agrippa chose to pay him a visit. But while Agrippa was there, Festus took the opportunity to ask Agrippa to “examine” the prisoner, Paul. This was not a trial, only an “examination”. Agrippa was more familiar with Jewish laws and customs and Festus appears to be a new kid in town. He confesses his shortcomings in today’s last two verses: But I have nothing definite to write to my lord about him. Therefore I have brought him before you all, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that, after we have examined him, I may have something to write. For it seems to me unreasonable, in sending a prisoner, not to indicate the charges against him. (vv. 26-27) So Festus is quite the opportunist – saving face and trying to look competent!! But maybe that’s not so bad. He’s new to the area, unfamiliar with the people and their customs. He is making use of an authority figure so that he can better understand a complicated situation. Festus may be something of an opportunist here, but I think he is also making the best use of the resources at his disposal. Not a bad model to follow…
Slava Bohu!
Agreed. Festus was an opportunist. As was Paul in this situation. He never misses an opportunity to share the gospel, now with the tribunal in Caesarea and Agrippa and Bernice. Our problems are often opportunities in disguise!