NT FigureNew Testament

Festus

Acts

When

AD 59–62· In office

Tied to events dated from records outside the Bible, usually within a few years. How the dates are worked out

Name meaning

"festal, joyful" · Latin

About

Roman governor who succeeded Felix and reopened Paul's case. When the Jewish leaders pressed for a trial in Jerusalem, Paul appealed to Caesar, and Festus replied, 'To Caesar you shall go.' He invited King Agrippa to hear Paul, and during the apostle's defense exclaimed that Paul's great learning was driving him insane.

Relationships

PredecessorFelixThe governor he replaced, who had left Paul in prison

TriedPaulGovernor before whom Paul appealed to Caesar

ContemporaryAgrippaKing he invited to hear Paul's defense

Key Scripture AppearancesKJV

Acts 24:27

But after two years Porcius Festus came into Felix’ room: and Felix, willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, left Paul bound.Acts 24:27, KJV

Acts 25:12

Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered, Hast thou appealed unto Cæsar? unto Cæsar shalt thou go.Acts 25:12, KJV

Acts 25:23

And on the morrow, when Agrippa was come, and Bernice, with great pomp, and was entered into the place of hearing, with the chief captains, and principal men of the city, at Festus’ commandment Paul was brought forth.Acts 25:23, KJV

Acts 26:24

And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad.Acts 26:24, KJV

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