overnor Felix had played with the truth. He had kept Paul in prison at Caesarea for two years, often asking him about Jesus and the gospel, but with no intention of repenting or trusting Jesus (Acts 24:24-26). Meanwhile, the religious leaders in Jerusalem were still intent on killing Paul. Two years had not decreased their hatred. So when the time came for Felix to be replaced by Festus, it provided a fresh opportunity to assassinate Paul.

Of course, Felix should have released Paul because there was no charge for him to answer. But the governor was afraid that the religious leaders would foment public unrest if Paul was set free. It was easier to keep him in prison and let the new governor solve the problem. It only took three days in his new job for Festus to be petitioned about Paul. The leaders presented the same old false accusations, demanding that Paul should be transferred back to Jerusalem for trial.

Their request had nothing to do with the rule of law, but with the murderous intention of their hearts. Paul had been preaching that Jesus, who those leaders had sentenced to death, had been raised from death by God. That proved that their decision was morally wrong. As long as Paul was alive, their authority over Israel was weakened. So they planned, for a fourth time (Acts 23:20-21), to murder him. They would ambush him in the narrow streets of Jerusalem when he was brought to court. But Festus refused their request. If they wanted to accuse Paul, they could do so in Caesarea.

By nature, an evil heart is persistent. It will keep on trying to find a way to express itself (Matthew 15:19). Hatred, bitterness, anger, lust and greed will remain like unexploded bombs (James 1:13-16) - unless the Lord brings repentance. Paul was previously full of evil passions before he met Jesus; but when the Lord revealed Himself, the proud man was broken. Paul then agreed that he really was a wicked sinner and fully submitted himself to the mercy of Jesus. Unless you do the same, your evil desires will fester dangerously. Admit your sin, repent in sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:10). Like Paul, allow the Lord to change your heart to bless people and no longer hurt them. At the same time, do not be surprised if unrepentant sinners persist in persecuting you: be wise and trust the Lord to protect you (2 Peter 2:9).