10 Interesting Facts About Tertullus in the Bible

Tertullus is a lesser-known figure in the New Testament, but his appearance is significant in understanding the early legal opposition to the Apostle Paul. Found in Acts 24, Tertullus played a key role in the political and religious efforts to silence the early Christian message. This article shares 10 interesting facts about Tertullus, using Scripture to shine a light on his role and character.

1. Tertullus Was a Skilled Orator

Tertullus is described as an "orator" in Acts 24:1. This title implies more than just public speaking. In Roman culture, it meant he was a trained advocate, likely skilled in law and rhetoric.

And after five days Ananias the high priest descended with the elders, and with a certain orator named Tertullus, who informed the governor against Paul. — Acts 24:1 (KJV)

His job was to present a case strong enough to persuade the Roman governor, Felix.

2. He Was Hired by the Jewish Leaders

Tertullus was not part of the religious council but was brought in by the high priest Ananias and other elders. This shows the seriousness of their accusations against Paul—they wanted a professional to speak on their behalf.

...the high priest Ananias came down with some elders and a lawyer named Tertullus, and they brought their charges against Paul before the governor. — Acts 24:1 (NIV)

3. He Praised Felix to Win Favor

Tertullus began his speech with flattery, praising Governor Felix for bringing peace and reforms. This was a common tactic in Roman courts to gain favor with the judge.

Seeing that by thee we enjoy great quietness, and that very worthy deeds are done unto this nation by thy providence... — Acts 24:2 (KJV)

This kind of flattery was often exaggerated and insincere, especially since Felix was known historically for cruelty and corruption.

4. He Called Paul a “Pest”

Tertullus didn’t hold back in his accusations. He called Paul a “pest,” which meant a troublemaker or plague to society.

For we have found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world... — Acts 24:5 (KJV)

He painted Paul as a dangerous threat, not just to religion but to public order.

5. He Accused Paul of Stirring Up Riots

Tertullus said Paul was the ringleader of unrest among the Jews. He framed Paul’s missionary journeys as acts of rebellion.

...a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes: Who also hath gone about to profane the temple... — Acts 24:5–6 (KJV)

This accusation would carry weight with Roman officials, who were tasked with keeping peace.

6. He Used the Word “Nazarenes” Derogatorily

By calling Christians the "sect of the Nazarenes," Tertullus distanced Paul's movement from mainstream Judaism and painted it as a radical offshoot.

...a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes... — Acts 24:5 (KJV)

Nazareth was a small, unimpressive town, and using that label was meant to belittle both Jesus and His followers.

7. He Claimed Paul Tried to Defile the Temple

One of the most serious charges was that Paul attempted to desecrate the temple. This stirred strong emotions and was likely meant to justify the Jewish leaders’ earlier attempt to kill Paul.

Who also hath gone about to profane the temple: whom we took, and would have judged according to our law. — Acts 24:6 (KJV)

This was a false accusation, since Paul had taken great care not to violate Jewish customs (see Acts 21:26–29).

8. Tertullus Blamed the Romans for Intervening

In verse 7, Tertullus subtly complained that Lysias the Roman commander interrupted their handling of Paul.

But the chief captain Lysias came upon us, and with great violence took him away out of our hands... — Acts 24:7 (KJV)

This made the Jews look like victims rather than aggressors, shifting blame to the Roman authorities.

9. His Arguments Were Politically Motivated

Tertullus crafted his case to appeal to both Jewish religious concerns and Roman political stability. He avoided direct theological debates and focused on portraying Paul as a social and political threat.

This approach showed his understanding of Roman legal expectations and his intent to gain a favorable verdict by manipulation rather than truth.

10. His Case Failed

Despite his polished argument, Governor Felix didn’t convict Paul. Instead, he delayed the verdict and kept Paul under house arrest.

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. — Acts 24:22 (KJV)

Tertullus's eloquence wasn’t enough to sway the outcome, and Paul remained alive and able to continue his mission.

Summary Table: Tertullus in Acts 24