Section 25:1–22

Paul was on trial before Festus

In this section, while Festus was in Jerusalem, the Jewish leaders asked that he have Paul’s trial there. Paul was in Caesarea. Festus returned to Caesarea. Wishing to please the Jews, he recommended that Paul return to Jerusalem for the trial. Paul refused, probably concerned about being put in the hands of the Jews. He said that he wanted Caesar to decide whether he was guilty or not.

King Agrippa came to visit Festus. Festus explained the situation with Paul, and King Agrippa asked to hear what Paul had to say. Festus said yes to his request.

Other examples of headings for this section are:

The Trial Before Festus (New International Version)
-or-
Festus heard Paul and his accusers in court
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Paul before Festus (New American Standard Bible)
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Paul appeals to Caesar (New Jerusalem Bible)

Paragraph 25:1–5

25:1a

Three days after his arrival in the province: The word province refers to Judea, which included the cities of Caesarea and Jerusalem. The phrase implies that he began his rule as governor when he arrived.

25:1b

Festus went up from Caesarea to Jerusalem: Caesarea was the Roman capital of the province. It is about 120 kilometers (75 miles) from Jerusalem. It was a two or three day journey. Caesarea is on the seacoast, and Jerusalem is up in the mountains at about 760 meters (2,500 feet) in elevation. So the phrase went up refers to going up in elevation. In some languages it is more natural not to use the word up. For example:

he went from Caesarea to Jerusalem (Good News Translation)

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