We don't know much about Festus from history, but Josephus writes, "The brief but firm and honorable rule of Porcius Festus began with efficiency and wisdom" (A.D. 59-61; Josephus, Jewish Antiquities 20.182-97; Jewish Wars 2.271). He was to be the last procurator to have any good intentions towards Palestine. He was appointed by Nero in A.D.59. and was in power for only two years before he died.

Festus arrived on the scene in Caesarea, which was the Roman headquarters. His predecessors' incompetency left him a legacy of profound hate from the Jewish people. So the first thing he did was go up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with the high priests and leaders of Israel:

And the chief priests and the leading men of the Jews brought charges against Paul, and they were urging him, requesting a concession against Paul, that he might have him brought to Jerusalem (at the same time, setting an ambush to kill him on the way). (Acts 25:2-3 NASB)

Luke describes the leaders in general terms as chief priests and Jewish leaders, probably indicating that more than the Sanhedrin was involved. From what we read here, it seems like the very first order of business for the leaders was to discuss with Festus the situation of the Apostle Paul.

View sermon transcript here: http://www.bereanbiblechurch.org/transcripts/acts/25_1-27_video.php

7/4/2010 - Pastor David B. Curtis - Berean Bible Church -http://www.bereanbiblechurch.org - Message# 511