Meanwhile he also hoped that money would be given him by Paul, that he might release him. Therefore he sent for him more often and conversed with him. Acts 24:26

Felix was not only disinterested in what Paul had to say about Christ and the Gospel, he was a stereotypical government agent hoping for a bribe. Why would he think Paul had money to pay his way out of legal troubles?

Because “paying for justice” has always been a way out of trouble—for those who can afford it. Jesus spoke about this when He rhetorically asked, “What will a man give in exchange for his soul?” Jesus was speaking of course about standing for the judgment of God. Clearly no amount of money can sway the Judge of all the earth.

Because Felix was probably aware that Paul had collected money from Christians in Asia Minor and Greece to give to the suffering Christians in Jerusalem and the rest of Israel. Maybe Paul would give some or all of that benevolence money to Felix for a speedy release from imprisonment. Felix failed to realize that Paul would never stoop that low. Maybe if Paul could raise a large sum for the poor, he could raise a large sum to buy his way out of legal trouble. Again, Felix didn’t know Paul, did he?

And Felix didn’t give up easily. He continued to ask not about religious matters, but about extorting money from Paul for his release.

A final thought: Are all people in positions of power “on the take”? Thankfully, no. But there are many who are, and given time and opportunity, many more are likely to end up becoming crooked.