Antonius Felix was a Roman procurator of Judea from approximately 52 to 60 AD. He governed during a turbulent period marked by uprisings and social unrest. The New Testament book of Acts portrays him as a corrupt and ruthless leader who held the Apostle Paul prisoner for two years, hoping for a bribe. His administration was characterized by violence and oppression, contributing to the growing tension between the Jewish population and Roman rule.
Understanding this Roman official provides valuable context for interpreting the latter part of Acts. His actions directly impacted the spread of early Christianity, specifically Paul’s missionary journeys and eventual appeal to Caesar. The account of Paul before Felix offers insight into the challenges faced by early Christians under Roman authority and highlights the complex political and religious landscape of the era. This period laid the groundwork for the escalating conflict that would culminate in the First Jewish-Roman War.
