We begin this class by looking at historical details about the Roman governorship of Judea which was headquartered in Caesarea. Festus replaced the previous governor Felix in 59 AD. Historical sources outside of the Bible confirm the accuracy of Luke’s account. Festus immediately took up Paul’s case in which the Jewish leadership wanted Paul executed.

They demanded that Paul be taken to Jerusalem for more testimony but in fact where plotting to murder him on the way there. This plot was foiled when Festus refused to send Paul to Jerusalem but would take up his case in Caesarea after Festus briefly visited Jerusalem at the very beginning of his term as governor.

We spend significant time discussing the fact that when opponents with bad motives cannot win a debate on the facts, they often become hostile and turn to murder. We trace this reality back to the first case of murder where Cain killed Abel. We look at other cases including in some in Luke/Acts.

We also discuss the need to not fret about evil doers but wait for the Lord. This included a partial study of Psalm 37 which is on this topic. This also leads to a discussion of the doctrine of providence which is so often ignored and neglected. As in Paul’s case, evil plots lead to God’s purpose being fulfilled. Paul was to go the Rome which will indeed happen.