Acts 24:2,3

Acts 24:2-3 "Since we have through you attained much peace, and since by your providence reforms are being carried out for this nation, we acknowledge this in every way and everywhere, most excellent Felix, with all thankfulness" "As. trained and experienced professional lawyer, Tertullus began with what was called. captatio benevolentiae, that is, an endeavour to capture the judge's good will. Traditionally, it was complimentary to the point of hypocrisy and often included. promise of brevity. Tertullus expressed gratitude for the 'peace' Felix had secured and the 'reforms' he had introduced, whereas in reality he had put down several insurrections with such barbarous brutality that he earned for himself the horror, not the thanks, of the Jewish population" (Stott pp. 359-360). "So was such flattery as the reference to Felix's clemency or moderation. a reference singularly inappropriate to. governor whose ferocity is attested by Josephus and Tacitus alike" (Bruce p. 464). "Peace" Felix had broken up various robber bands and had dwelt with the Jewish assassins for the moment, yet it was "his corruption and cruelty while in office that finally caused the attitude of rebellion to jell in the hearts of the average Jew" (Reese p. 837). "Providence" Men spoke then, as now, of the "providence" of God, and already the empire had the tendency to apply such terms that meant "divine action" to the rulers of the empire. The expression "providence of Caesar" will appear on many Roman coins. Tacitus sums up the career of Felix in the following words, "He exercised the power of. king with the mind of. slave" (Histories v.9). "Reforms" Such reforms were very few, for within two years of this time Felix will be removed from office and summoned to trial in Rome.