Definition: And when Felix heard these things, having more perfect knowledge of [that] way, he deferred them, and said, When Lysias the chief captain shall come down, I will know the uttermost of your matter.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Acts 24:22. It’s a really important part of understanding how Paul dealt with a situation in Rome. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Felix was listening to Paul and was deeply concerned about the details of Paul’s story. Let's unpack it further: “Felix heard these things…” – This refers to the conversations Paul had with Felix. “…having more perfect knowledge of [that] way…” - This is a bit tricky, but Felix was really focused on understanding Paul’s past and his situation. He was trying to figure out what happened before he came to Rome. “He deferred them…” – This means he stopped talking about the details and chose not to continue the conversation. It shows a thoughtful pause. “…and said, When Lysias the chief captain shall come down, I will know the uttermost of your matter.” - This is the key part. Paul was essentially saying, "I need more information before I can make any judgments about this situation." He wanted to understand everything – his actions, his beliefs, and what he was trying to achieve. “The uttermost of your matter” means everything – the full story, the truth. So, what’s the takeaway? Paul was cautious and deliberate in how he handled things with Felix. He wasn't rushing to judgment. He was prioritizing understanding before making any decisions about him or his situation. It shows a thoughtful approach to dealing with people who might be causing problems. In short, it's a sign of Paul’s concern, caution, and desire for complete information. Do you want me to explain why this verse is significant in the Bible, or perhaps delve into another part of Acts 24?