Now as he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and answered, “Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you.” Acts 24:25

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A more literal translation is, “And he, reasoning concerning righteousness and continence and the judgment coming to be, Felix, having become frightened, answered, ‘For now, be going, and having found time, I will call you’” (CG).

In the previous verse, it noted that Felix came to Paul with Drusilla, his wife. He heard Paul concerning the faith in Christ. From there, Luke now records, “And he.”

It is referring to Paul. While Felix and Drusilla were listening, Paul spoke, “reasoning concerning righteousness.”

The word is dikaiosuné. It speaks of “righteousness” or “justice” that is deemed right by the Lord. It isn’t so much in reference to the character of God as it is to what is expected of us in our relations with both God and man. Thus, it is the proper conduct of our lives.

In the next verse, it will be seen that Felix is susceptible to taking bribes, and so this was a good point for Paul to have started with. Next, it notes “continence.”

It is a new word in Scripture, egkrateia. It refers to a person’s ability to practice moderation or restraint concerning life’s temptations. Strong’s says it is “the virtue of one who masters his desires and passions, especially his sensual appetites.” Thus, continence is a good word. The thought is also well expressed by the words self-control. Paul then continues with “the judgment coming to be.”

It is an obvious thought concerning what a person can expect if there really is a God. Tucked inside of man is a sense of responsibility to his Creator. Further, the knowledge that God exists is revealed in the creation itself. Paul addresses these things in Romans 1.

However, man can sear his conscience to the point that this thought is almost completely erased from his mind. Therefore, it is something that Paul spoke about because whether one accepts the gospel or not, judgment lies ahead. The difference is how one will stand before God on that day.

In the case of Paul’s words, he certainly presented the gospel in the sense that we are fallen, and that leads to our failings, all of which will be dealt with in either our judgment for condemnation or in our salvation through Christ’s judgment on our behalf.

What is amazing about Paul’s words is that he is standing before the one who has the power to release him or convict him. Despite that, instead of tickling his ears, he talks about issues that would make both the humble and the hardened squiggle in their seats.

Rather than pursuing a soft message, he chose the topic that bore especially on Felix’s character. And rightfully so, because Tacitus’s writings about him say that he “exercised the authority of a king with the spirit of a slave.” Because of Paul’s words, Luke next records, “Felix, having become frightened.”

The presentation had its intended effect. The word used has a strong sense. “Terrified” might be a better description of his state. Fear can lead to changing one’s mind if the heart is tender, or it can lead to looking for a means of escape from that which terrifies. Unfortunately, Felix chose the latter. Luke continues that he “answered, ‘For now, be going, and having found time, I will call you.’”

Felix has put off what he should have acted on. When a person is faced with such a decision, delaying a response will generally lead to the hardening of the heart.

Life application: Sharing the gospel is something we should do. When we do, it is good to give a summary thought concerning what we have said. In 2 Corinthians 6, Paul writes –

“We then, as workers together with Him also plead with you not to receive the grace of God in vain. 2 For He says:
‘In an acceptable time I have heard you,
And in the day of salvation I have helped you.’
Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:1, 2

This is a good verse to use to bring what you have said home. A delayed decision for Christ may turn into a decision never being made. In quoting Paul, adding in an understandable life application of the thought is helpful –

“Do you know that on September 11, 2001, several thousand people went into the World Trade Center, pressed the elevator button, and went up to whatever floor they were set to go to? Not one of those people thought, ‘This is the last time I will ever get on an elevator. I will be jumping out of a window at the top of this building in a few minutes.’ This is what life is like. We are one moment away from our demise at any moment. Without Jesus, we will have to face God alone. Today can be the day that changes for you. Call on Jesus and be saved while you have the opportunity.”

Be sure to speak of the judgment coming to be and how that can be one of salvation, not condemnation. Be sure to tell them that it can be so if they just believe in Jesus.

Lord God Almighty, may we be responsible with the time You have given us. Give us a heart to talk to others about Jesus, declaring their need to accept what He has done, believing the gospel of our salvation. And may we remember to remind them that today is the day! We may not have tomorrow. Amen.