Acts 24:4 Meaning and Explanation
“Notwithstanding, that I be not further tedious unto thee, I pray thee that thou wouldest hear us of thy clemency a few words.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Tertullus promises to be brief and asks Felix, in his clemency, to hear a few words.
What Does Acts 24:4 Mean?
Still polishing his opening, Tertullus pivots from praise to the case with the standard courtroom courtesy of promising brevity. Even the transition flatters: he appeals to the governor's 'clemency,' keeping Felix in a generous frame of mind as the accusations are about to begin.
The appeal is ironic: he asks this gentle judge to condemn an innocent man. Smooth speech can dress an unjust cause in courteous clothing. The Lord Jesus, who stood silent before His own accusers (Matthew 27:12-14), teaches His people to weigh words by their truth rather than their polish — 'by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned' (Matthew 12:37).
Acts 24:4 in the Original Language
epieikeia (ἐπιείκεια), 'clemency' -- gentleness or fair-mindedness, a graciousness that does not press its full rights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acts 24:4
What does Acts 24:4 mean?
Tertullus promises to be brief and asks Felix, in his clemency, to hear a few words.