Acts 24:1-9

The Jews Present the Case Against Paul

After five days, the high priest, elders and an orator, or, as Ash says was the case, an attorney, presented themselves before the governor to bring a formal charge against Paul. The orator, Tertullus, flattered Felix in referring to the peace he had brought the land under Roman authority, while also failing to mention the fact that the governor had been responsible for the murder of the high priest, Jonathan. Tertullus promised to state his case briefly, so as not to infringe on Felix time.

He accused Paul (1) of being a plague, (2) of stirring up rebellion among the Jews throughout the world, (3) of being a ringleader of the Nazarene party among the Jews, and (4) trying to desecrate the temple. He urged Felix to "examine" Paul, which may mean by scourging, without mentioning the apostle's Roman citizenship. The high priest and elders affirmed the truthfulness of the case presented by their orator (Acts 24:1-9).