Festus went to Jerusalem, the Jews laid out their case against Paul. He proposed to let the men of authority come to Caesarea to make their charge. In Caesarea Festus and the Jews were there, and the Jews couldn’t prove their serious accusations. Paul argued in defense that he hadn’t broken any laws. Festus asked if Paul would like to be tried in Jerusalem. Paul said he’d rather be tried before Caesar. Paul said he didn’t want to escape death if he’s guilty. He appealed to Caesar. Festus said, “To Caesar you have appealed; to Caesar you shall go.” Festus laid Paul’s case before King Agrippa. Agrippa said to Festus, “I would like to hear the man myself.” Festus said, “Tomorrow, you will hear him.” Festus introduced Paul in the hall the next day in order to examine him, because it seemed unreasonable not to indicate the charges against Paul.
Paul has no fear in prison. He continues to make his defense. It’s amazing how even in Festus’ retelling of the events that he speaks of the resurrection. Paul integrated his view of the resurrection into his defense testimony. Paul knows he will go to Rome though, and has no fear. I pray that God would make us fearless in the face of trials, oppositions, and even relationships that we are scared to change by bringing up Christ and the resurrection. Have no fear, if Paul can share the gospel in chains, we can do it in public religious liberty.