Acts 24:10

10 Then, at a sign from the Governor, Paul answered, "Knowing, Sir, that for many years you have administered justice to this nation, I cheerfully make my defence.

Acts 24:10 Meaning and Commentary

Acts 24:10

Then Paul, after the governor had beckoned unto him to
speak
Tertullus having finished his account, Paul was silent to his charge and calumnies, until the governor beckoned with his hand or head, or made some sign to him to speak for himself; which he might not do, until leave was given him; and then he

answered
as follows:

forasmuch as I know that thou hast been of many years a judge unto
this nation;
some say he was in the thirteenth, others in the tenth year of his government; some copies read a "just judge"; but this does not so well agree with the character of Felix; (See Gill on Acts 24:27).

I do the more cheerfully answer for myself;
since if he had been such a mover of sedition everywhere, he must in this course of years have known or heard something of it; and seeing also he could be no stranger to the temper of the Jews, that they were given to envy, revenge, lying, and perjury, and therefore would not easily believe all they said, or rashly take their part, but rather would pity the apostle, who had fallen into such hands, and do him justice.

Acts 24:10 In-Context

8 You, however, by examining him, will yourself be able to learn the truth as to all this which we allege against him."

9 The Jews also joined in the charge, maintaining that these were facts.

10 Then, at a sign from the Governor, Paul answered, "Knowing, Sir, that for many years you have administered justice to this nation, I cheerfully make my defence.

11 For you have it in your power to ascertain that it is not more than twelve days ago that I went up to worship in Jerusalem;

12 and that neither in the Temple nor in the synagogues, nor anywhere in the city, did they find me disputing with any opponent or collecting a crowd about me.