Acts 25:4
Translations
King James Version (KJV)
But Festus answered, that Paul should be kept at Caesarea, and that he himself would depart shortly thither.
American King James Version (AKJV)
But Festus answered, that Paul should be kept at Caesarea, and that he himself would depart shortly thither.
American Standard Version (ASV)
Howbeit Festus answered, that Paul was kept in charge at Caesarea, and that he himself was about to depart thither'shortly.
Basic English Translation (BBE)
But Festus, in answer, said that Paul was being kept in prison at Caesarea, and that in a short time he himself was going there.
Webster's Revision
But Festus answered, that Paul should be kept at Cesarea, and that he himself would depart shortly thither.
World English Bible
However Festus answered that Paul should be kept in custody at Caesarea, and that he himself was about to depart shortly.
English Revised Version (ERV)
Howbeit Festus answered, that Paul was kept in charge at Caesarea, and that he himself was about to depart thither shortly.
Clarke's Acts 25:4 Bible Commentary
Festus answered, that Paul should be kept at Caesarea - It is truly astonishing that Festus should refuse this favor to the heads of the Jewish nation, which, to those who were not in the secret, must appear so very reasonable; and especially as, on his coming to the government, it might be considered an act that was likely to make him popular; and he could have no interest in denying their request. But God had told Paul that he should testify of him at Rome; and he disposed the heart of Festus to act as he did; and thus disappointed the malice of the Jews, and fulfilled his own gracious design.
He - would depart shortly - So had the providence of God disposed matters that Festus was obliged to return speedily to Caesarea; and thus had not time to preside in such a trial at Jerusalem. And this reason must appear sufficient to the Jews; and especially as he gave them all liberty to come and appear against him, who were able to prove the alleged charges.
Barnes's Acts 25:4 Bible Commentary
But Festus answered ... - What induced Festus to refuse their request is not known. It is probable, however, that he was apprised that Paul was a Roman citizen, and that his case could not come before the Jewish Sanhedrin, but must be heard by himself. As Caesarea was also at that time the residence of the Roman governor, and the place of holding the courts, and as Paul was lodged there safely, there did not appear to be any sufficient reason for removing him to Jerusalem for trial. Festus, however, granted them all that they could reasonably ask, and assured them that he should have a speedy trial.
Wesley's Acts 25:4 Bible Commentary
25:4 But Festus answered - So Festus's care to preserve the imperial privileges was the means of preserving Paul's life. By what invisible springs does God govern the world! With what silence, and yet with what wisdom and energy!