King James Version
What Does Acts 24:2 Mean?
“And when he was called forth, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying, Seeing that by thee we enjoy great quietness, and that very worthy deeds are done unto this nation by thy providence,”
Acts 24:2 · KJV
Context
1
And after five days Ananias the high priest descended with the elders, and with a certain orator named Tertullus, who informed the governor against Paul.
2
And when he was called forth, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying, Seeing that by thee we enjoy great quietness, and that very worthy deeds are done unto this nation by thy providence,
3
We accept it always, and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness.
4
Notwithstanding, that I be not further tedious unto thee, I pray thee that thou wouldest hear us of thy clemency a few words.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryTertullus began with flattery: 'we enjoy great quietness, and very worthy deeds are done unto this nation by thy providence.' This rhetorical strategy sought to predispose Felix favorably. 'Providence' (pronoias) attributed divine-like care to a corrupt governor.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Tertullus, a hired Roman orator, followed standard rhetorical conventions. Felix's actual rule was marked by brutality and corruption, making this flattery particularly ironic.
Reflection Questions
- How does recognizing flattery help discern false accusations?
- What does Tertullus's rhetoric teach about legal manipulation?
Original Language Analysis
Greek · 23 wordsκληθέντος1 of 23
“when he was called forth”
G2564to "call" (properly, aloud, but used in a variety of applications, directly or otherwise)
αὐτοῦ3 of 23
G846the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
λέγων,8 of 23
“him saying”
G3004properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
Πολλῆς9 of 23
“great”
G4183(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely
τυγχάνοντες11 of 23
“we enjoy”
G5177akin to the base of g5088 through the idea of effecting; properly, to affect; or (specially), to hit or light upon (as a mark to be reached), i.e., (t
καὶ14 of 23
“and”
G2532and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
κατορθωμάτων15 of 23
“that very worthy deeds”
G2735something made fully upright, i.e., (figuratively) rectification (specially, good public administration)
γινομένων16 of 23
“are done”
G1096to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
ἔθνει18 of 23
“nation”
G1484a race (as of the same habit), i.e., a tribe; specially, a foreign (non-jewish) one (usually, by implication, pagan)
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Acts. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Acts 24:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Acts 24:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge