A more convenient time

Now as he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and answered, “Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you.” Meanwhile he also hoped that money would be given him by Paul, that he might release him. Therefore he sent for him more often and conversed with him.
But after two years Porcius Festus succeeded Felix; and Felix, wanting to do the Jews a favour, left Paul bound. – Acts 24.25-27

Paul faithfully shared the gospel with Governor Felix. We reasoned with Felix about righteousness and self-control and of God’s judgement.When he did that Felix became afraid sent Paul away – ‘I will call you back at some more convenient time.’

Those are sad words to hear from someone who needs to be saved. They are the words we probably hear most often as we share our faith. People get afraid when the Holy Spirit works on their hearts and they realise the enormity of the truth of the gospel.

‘Come talk to me again Paul.’

Now, we find out that there was an ulterior motive here. Felix was hoping for a bribe from Paul. He was hoping for money for his own pockets.

The thing is though, no matter what Felix’s motives, for two more years Paul had the chance to share with Felix. Paul knew he wasn’t he wasn’t going to pay the bribe. He did know that every time they spoke Felix was going to hear the gospel.

Did Felix get saved? We don’t know. We know he left him bound because he feared the Jews. For two years years though Paul had an ongoing witness. Felix knew that a prophet had been with him. He knew the gospel. Paul did his job no matter what Felix’s motivation.