Bible Figure
Drusilla (daughter of Herod Agrippa)
Drusilla was a daughter of Herod Agrippa I, sister of Agrippa II and Berenice, and wife of the Roman governor Antonius Felix. She was present when Felix summoned Paul to speak about faith in Christ Jesus.
Biography
Acts 24 identifies Drusilla as Jewish and as the wife of Felix, governor of Judea. After Paul had been accused by Jewish leaders and had defended himself before Felix, the governor postponed a decision. Several days later Felix came with Drusilla and sent for Paul. They listened as Paul spoke about faith in Christ Jesus. As Paul reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment, Felix became frightened and dismissed him, saying he would call again when convenient. Felix continued speaking with Paul over a period of two years, partly hoping to receive money from him. Drusilla is not recorded as responding verbally, and Scripture supplies no account of her later spiritual response.
Biblical Significance
Drusilla's presence places Paul's witness directly before a member of the Herodian dynasty and the Roman governing household. The subjects Paul chose - righteousness, self-control, and judgment - demonstrate that apostolic preaching before powerful people did not avoid morally demanding implications.