Acts 25:24-27

In reviewing the reasons for conducting this hearing, Festus acknowledged that Paul had done nothing worthy of death as the Jews had charged (Acts 25:25). Pilate had made a similar observation about Jesus’ innocence (Luke 23:4; Luke 23:14; Luke 23:22). Festus referred to the emperor (Gr. sebastos, cf. Acts 25:21) as his lord (kyrios, definitely majesty, [Note: Werner Foerster, Theological Dictionary of the New Testament, s.v. "kyrios," 3:1054-58.] and perhaps deity, [Note: Ladd, "The Acts . . .," p. 1171.] Acts 25:25-26). But Paul would preach his Lord, a higher authority than Nero, to this crowd (cf. John 19:19). Festus decided to send Paul to Nero rather than sending him back to Jerusalem (Acts 25:9; cf. Acts 26:32). After explaining his need in face-saving language, Festus turned the hearing over to Agrippa.

"This naïve confession of Festus reveals how unjust has been his whole treatment of Paul." [Note: Robertson, 3:441.]

Luke undoubtedly included Festus’ preamble in Acts because it was another testimony by a Roman official that Paul and Christianity were not threats to the empire.