25:4a–b

But Festus replied, “Paul is being held in Caesarea, and I myself am going there soon: 25:4a–b in Greek is indirect speech. For example:

But Festus replied that Paul was in custody in Caesarea, and that he would be going back there shortly himself. (New Jerusalem Bible)

But 25:5a–c is direct speech in Greek. In some languages it is more natural to have it all as direct speech, as in the Berean Standard Bible.

25:4a

But: 25:4a begins with a Greek phrase that is often translated as “so then.” For example:

Then (NET Bible)

The Berean Standard Bible translates just the Greek conjunction in the Greek phrase that begins this verse. The Berean Standard Bible translates the conjunction as But because there is some contrast between what the Jewish leaders wanted and what Festus said to them. Some other English versions also begin this verse with But. For example:

But (New Jerusalem Bible)

Paul is being held in Caesarea: This clause is passive. Some languages must translate it as an active or intransitive clause. For example:

⌊Soldiers/They⌋ are guarding Paul at Caesarea
-or-
Paul is in custody/prison in Caesarea

25:4b

I myself am going there soon: The word soon probably refers to a day or several days.

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