The form of the letter in verses 26-30 reflects the letter form as used in the first century A.D.

In a number of receptor languages it is necessary to speak of one’s self in the first person singular. Therefore, the introduction to this letter would need to be modified as follows: “I, who am Claudius Lysias, write to you, Most Excellent Governor Felix.”

Excellency is a title of honor used to address important persons; it is used of Roman officials in 24.2 and 26.25. The closest equivalent in a number of languages to the term Excellency is an expression of honor due to one’s importance. For example, in some languages one may use “to the very important Governor Felix,” “to Governor Felix who deserves great honor,” or, in some instances, “to the big chief, Governor Felix.”

Terms of greetings differ vastly from one language to another. In some instances one greets another simply by saying “I am talking to you.” In another language one may say “may you live well” or “may all kinds of happiness be yours.” What is important is that a natural and normal form of greeting be employed at this point, something which would be fully in keeping with this type of context.

Quoted with permission from Newman, Barclay M. and Nida, Eugene A. A Handbook on The Acts of the Apostles. (UBS Handbook Series). New York: UBS, 1972. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .