Acts 24:27

After two years. Literally, “when two years were fulfilled,” or “had elapsed.” This seems to infer two full years’ time, not parts of two years, by inclusive reckoning (see Vol. I, p. 182; Vol. VI, pp. 99, 101, 102).

Porcius Festus. See Vol. V, p. 71. Josephus paints the character of this procurator in kinder colors than he does that of Felix (War xi. 14. 1), but shows him in as much difficulty with sedition and assassins as his predecessor (Antiquities xx. 8. 9, 10).

Came into Felix’s room. Literally, “Felix received a successor,” that is, Felix was succeeded by Festus. The year was about A.D. 60 (see p. 102).

Shew the Jews a pleasure. Literally, “gain favor with the Jews.” Leaving Paul a prisoner, a hostage to fortune, Felix hoped to lighten complaints the Jews pressed against him at Rome. Even in disgrace he played with Paul’s fortunes for his personal benefit.

Bound. That is, in bonds, a strong expression, suggesting that the indulgent treatment Paul at first received as a prisoner (see v. 23) may have terminated at the governor’s orders, prior to his departure. No information is given as to how Paul occupied himself during the two years of detention by Felix.