Bible Strands
Acts 24:26
At the same time, he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe. So he sent for Paul frequently and talked with him.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Felix, the Roman governor, repeatedly summons Paul while keeping him imprisoned after being frightened by Paul’s preaching on righteousness, self-control, and judgment.
The words — The Greek ἐλπίζων (elpizōn) literally means “he is hoping,” and χρήματα (chrēmata) translates to “riches,” indicating Felix’s expectation of receiving money from Paul.
The thread — This expectation of illicit payment aligns with warnings against bribery that twists justice in Exodus 23:8 and Proverbs 17:23, and mirrors the temptation to pursue wealth detailed in 1 Timothy 6:9.
Why it lands — The text demands recognition that spiritual truth does not generate financial gain for those in authority, and it warns readers to examine their own motives when engaging with religious matters.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
He hoped also that money should have been given him of Paul, that he might loose him: wherefore he sent for him the oftener, and communed with him.
Cross-references
- Proverbs 17:23 A wicked man takes a covert bribe to subvert the course of justice.
- 1 Timothy 6:9 Those who want to be rich, however, fall into temptation and become ensnared by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction.
- Exodus 23:8 Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see and twists the words of the righteous.
- Deuteronomy 16:19 Do not deny justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the righteous.
- 1 Samuel 8:3 But his sons did not walk in his ways; they turned aside toward dishonest gain, accepting bribes and perverting justice.
- 1 Samuel 12:3 Here I am. Bear witness against me before the LORD and before His anointed: Whose ox or donkey have I taken? Whom have I cheated or oppressed? From whose hand have I accepted a bribe and closed my eyes? Tell me, and I will restore it to you.”
- 2 Chronicles 19:7 And now, may the fear of the LORD be upon you. Be careful what you do, for with the LORD our God there is no injustice or partiality or bribery.”
- Job 15:34 For the company of the godless will be barren, and fire will consume the tents of bribery.
- Psalms 26:9 Do not take my soul away with sinners, or my life with men of bloodshed,
- Proverbs 17:8 A bribe is a charm to its giver; wherever he turns, he succeeds.