Acts 24:25 – “As Paul talked about righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, ‘That’s enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you.’”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, Paul is speaking to Governor Felix and his wife, Drusilla, about faith in Jesus Christ. Paul does not water down the message—he speaks directly about righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment. Felix, who was a powerful Roman official, becomes afraid. Instead of responding in faith, he abruptly stops the conversation, telling Paul he will call for him at a “more convenient time.”

Felix’s fear shows that the message of the gospel convicted him. He knew that Paul was telling the truth, but rather than repent, he chose to put off making a decision. His words reflect the danger of spiritual procrastination—he delayed responding to God’s call, but there is no record that he ever accepted Christ.

Historical Context

Felix was the Roman governor of Judea, a man known for his corruption, greed, and cruelty. He had taken Drusilla from her previous husband, and he ruled with brutality to keep control of the Jewish population.

Paul had been in Roman custody for some time after being falsely accused in Jerusalem (Acts 21:27-36). Felix had delayed making a judgment, hoping to receive a bribe (Acts 24:26). In the meantime, he often listened to Paul speak about Jesus. However, when Paul spoke about righteousness, self-control, and judgment, Felix became afraid.

Felix’s reaction is understandable. He was an unrighteous man who lacked self-control and had much to fear about judgment. Paul’s words struck a nerve, but instead of repenting, Felix chose to avoid the truth. His statement, “When I find it convenient,” reflects his unwillingness to confront his sin.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches several important spiritual lessons:

1. The Gospel Convicts Sinners – Felix’s fear shows that the message of Christ has the power to convict the heart. When people hear the truth, they must choose to accept it or reject it.
2. Delaying a Decision for Christ is Dangerous – Felix postponed his response, but a more convenient time never came. Many people today hear the gospel and say, “I’ll deal with this later,” but delaying can lead to a hardened heart.
3. True Faith Requires Repentance – Paul preached about righteousness and self-control because following Christ requires turning from sin. Felix was unwilling to change his lifestyle, so he rejected the message.

Literary Analysis

This verse has a dramatic structure. Paul’s bold preaching stands in contrast to Felix’s fear and avoidance.

• Paul “talked about righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come” – These are direct challenges to Felix’s lifestyle.
• “Felix was afraid” – The truth unsettled him. He knew he was guilty before God.
• “That’s enough for now! You may leave.” – Felix cut off the conversation to escape conviction.
• “When I find it convenient, I will send for you.” – His excuse reveals his spiritual procrastination.

Felix’s words mirror how many people respond to the gospel—they try to avoid the issue rather than face their sin.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• John 16:8 – “When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment.” The Holy Spirit convicts, just as Paul’s message convicted Felix.
• Hebrews 9:27 – “People are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment.” Felix feared judgment but did nothing to prepare for it.
• Proverbs 27:1 – “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.” Felix assumed he would have another chance, but tomorrow is never guaranteed.
• 2 Corinthians 6:2 – “Now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” The best time to respond to God is right now, not later.
• James 1:22 – “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” Felix heard the truth but refused to act on it.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

Felix’s mistake is one that many people make today—he put off responding to God. He was convicted, but instead of repenting, he pushed the truth away. This verse is a warning that waiting for a “better time” to follow Jesus is dangerous.

For believers, this verse also teaches the importance of preaching the full gospel. Paul did not hold back—he spoke about righteousness, self-control, and judgment. Many today try to make Christianity more “comfortable,” but the truth must be shared fully, even if it makes people uncomfortable.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in the fact that Felix was given the opportunity to hear the gospel. Even though he was corrupt and sinful, God reached out to him through Paul. This shows that God desires all people to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).

However, God’s love does not override justice. Felix had a chance to respond, but he rejected it. God will not force anyone to believe—He calls, but people must choose to respond.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

• Jesus Preached About Righteousness and Judgment – Paul’s message reflects what Jesus Himself preached. Jesus warned about the coming judgment and the need for repentance (Matthew 4:17).
• Felix, Like Pilate, Avoided Making a Decision – When Jesus stood before Pilate, Pilate knew He was innocent but chose to avoid the truth (Luke 23:22-24). Felix made the same mistake—he knew Paul was right but refused to act.
• Jesus Offers Salvation, But It Must Be Accepted – Jesus calls people to follow Him now, not later (Luke 9:59-62). Felix missed his opportunity because he delayed his decision.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does Felix’s response teach us about the danger of delaying our decision to follow Christ?
2. How do people today make the same mistake as Felix—hearing the truth but refusing to act?
3. Paul preached about righteousness, self-control, and judgment. Why do you think these topics made Felix afraid?
4. Have you ever felt convicted by God’s Word? How did you respond?
5. What can we do to make sure we don’t put off obeying God in areas where He is calling us to change?