Acts 25:4

4 But Festus answered that Paul should be kept at Caesarea and that he himself would depart shortly there.

Acts 25:4 Meaning and Commentary

Acts 25:4

But Festus answered, that Paul should be kept at Caesarea,
&c.] Or that he was kept there, and was in proper custody, under the care of a centurion, and should continue there; nor was there any reason why he should be removed, especially since he should return thither speedily, as he adds:

and that he himself would depart shortly thither;
the answer was a very wise and prudent one, and the reasons given were just and strong; as that Paul had been sent to Caesarea, was left bound by his predecessor there; there he found him, and there he was under a proper guard, and there it was right for him to continue; and besides, he himself should make no stay in Jerusalem, but should depart for Caesarea in a few days, and therefore it was very improper to send for Paul thither.

Acts 25:4 In-Context

2 Then the prince of the priests and the principals of the Jews informed him against Paul and besought him,

3 asking for grace against him, that he would send for him to Jerusalem, they placing an ambush in the way to kill him.

4 But Festus answered that Paul should be kept at Caesarea and that he himself would depart shortly there.

5 Let them, therefore, said he, who among you are able, go down with me and accuse this man, if there is anything in him.

6 And when he had tarried among them no more than ten days, he went down unto Caesarea and the next day, sitting on the judgment seat, commanded Paul to be brought.