Acts 24 - The Way


22 Then Felix, who was well acquainted with the Way, adjourned the proceedings. “When Lysias the commander comes,” he said, “I will decide your case.” 23 He ordered the centurion to keep Paul under guardbut to give him some freedom and permit his friends to take care of his needs. 24 Several days later Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish. He sent for Paul and listened to him as he spoke about faith in Christ Jesus. 25 As Paul talked about righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, “That’s enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you.” 26 At the same time he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe, so he sent for him frequently and talked with him.
Paul is testifying on behalf of himself, as he recounts what he was doing when he came to Jerusalem to bring offerings for the poor and teach in the synagogue.  He defended himself by saying he not only purified himself before the priests, but his teaching came from both the Law and Prophets.  The only thing he says he is on trial for is for preaching "the resurrection of the dead".
Felix was well acquainted with the "Way".  This was a nickname for the early Christian church.  When I was in high school at a Christian camp I was given a bible called, "The Way".  And, of course, the Way is the Way of Jesus.  Remember Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life."  John 14:6  Jesus is the only way to God as he died on the cross for our sins, and was raised from the dead proving He was the only Son of God.  If there is another way, Jesus would not have had to die on the cross for us.
Felix was intrigued.  The Holy Spirit was calling him to faith in Jesus.  So he invited Paul privately to talk with he and his wife, who was Jewish.  When Paul talked about righteousness, self control and judgment, Felix got fearful.  Most likely this was because of his lifestyle and realizing what he would have to give up to follow Jesus.  Secretly he wanted to let Paul go, so he had hoped Paul might bribe him.  We don' t hear too much more about Felix.  It would be interesting to see if he came to faith at some point.  But we can see God is using Paul to reach all people inspite of his circumstances. 
What I like about the term, "the Way" is Jesus the Way to God, but Jesus calls us to a new way of life.  Jesus' way is not always the easy way, but the most fulfilling way.  If you are a Christ follower, you are called to walk in Jesus' way not your own.  This is what Jesus said when he said, "If anyone would come after me, he must pick up his cross and follow me.  Whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it." Matthew 16:25  
Are you walking in the way of Jesus?  Or have you gotten off the path?  Jesus' way is the best way and leads to life.    



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