Let them therefore, said he, which among you are able, go down with me, and accuse this man, if there be any wickedness in him.

ACTS 25:5KJV
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Acts 25:5 (KJV)

What does Acts 25:5 mean?

Acts 25:5 records the Roman governor Festus telling the Jewish leaders that those among them who are able should come with him to Caesarea and bring their accusations against Paul, if they believe he has done anything wrong. Festus is making it clear that any charges against Paul must be handled through proper legal procedures.

Festus is speaking to the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem, who wanted Paul transferred to their custody. Instead of granting their request, Festus invites those who are qualified ("able") to travel with him to Caesarea, where Paul is being held, so they can present their case in a formal setting. This shows Festus insisting on a fair process and not allowing an unlawful handover.

The Greek behind Acts 25:5

  • "able" (δυνατοί, transliteration: dynatoi): This word refers to those who are capable or have the authority, suggesting Festus is inviting respected or qualified accusers, not just anyone.
  • "accuse" (κατηγορεῖν, transliteration: katēgorein): This word means to bring formal charges, highlighting that Festus is requiring a legal accusation, not just rumors or informal complaints.
  • "if" (εἴ τι, transliteration: ei ti): This phrase introduces a condition, making it clear that accusations must be based on actual wrongdoing, not assumptions.

Why Acts 25:5 matters

  • Acts 25:5 shows Festus upholding Roman legal standards, refusing to let Paul be handed over without a proper trial, which protects Paul from a potential ambush.
  • The verse emphasizes that accusations must be substantiated and handled in an official court, not through mob justice or political pressure.
  • This moment connects to the larger narrative of Acts, where Paul’s legal rights as a Roman citizen are repeatedly highlighted and protected, setting the stage for his eventual appeal to Caesar.

Where else these words appear

“accuse” Greek G2723 · used in 21 verses

  • Matthew 12:10 And, behold, there was a man which had his hand withered. And they asked him, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath days? that they might accuse him.
  • Luke 23:10 And the chief priests and scribes stood and vehemently accused him.
  • Acts 24:13 Neither can they prove the things whereof they now accuse me.

“able” Greek G1415 · used in 35 verses

  • Matthew 19:26 But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.
  • Luke 24:19 And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people:
  • Romans 15:1 We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.

“said” Greek G5346 · used in 57 verses

  • Matthew 4:7 Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.
  • Luke 22:58 And after a little while another saw him, and said, Thou art also of them. And Peter said, Man, I am not.
  • Acts 23:5 Then said Paul, I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.

“if” Greek G1536 · used in 68 verses

  • Matthew 16:24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
  • 1 Corinthians 7:36 But if any man think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin, if she pass the flower of her age, and need so require, let him do what he will, he sinneth not: let them marry.
  • 2 Thessalonians 3:10 For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.