Acts 25:7-12

When Paul arrived. The accused had to face his accusers. This was Roman law. Many serious charge against him. The Jewish leaders had probably come along with Festus back to Caesarea. Their accusations are about the same as those to Felix. (1) Teaching a new and illegal religion: (2) defiling the temple; (3) leading riots against the Roman authorities. We infer these from Paul's defence in Acts 25:8. To gain favor. He was just beginning his rule as governor. Since Paul was a Roman, Festus could not send him to his enemies in Jerusalem unless Paul would agree to it. Festus may have thought, also, that Paul would appeal to Rome as he did, thus taking the whole matter off his hands. Before the Emperor's own judgment court. Paul uses his legal right to appeal as a Roman citizen. This law was to protect Romans against corrupt governors, etc. They could ask that their case be transferred to the Imperial Court in Rome. After conferring with his advisers. What Festus says, is probably an official legal statement. This appeal by Paul implies his mistrust of Festus.