How does Acts 25:23 connect to Jesus' promise in Matthew 10:18? The Scene in Acts 25:23 “The next day Agrippa and Bernice came with great pomp and entered the auditorium along with the commanders and the leading men of the city. And at the command of Festus, Paul was brought in.” (Acts 25:23) Jesus’ Promise Recalled “And you will be brought before governors and kings on My account, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles.” (Matthew 10:18) From Promise to Fulfillment • Jesus spoke Matthew 10:18 while commissioning the Twelve, but the promise applied to all who would bear His name. • Acts 25:23 shows the literal outworking of that word in Paul’s life: – Governor: Festus (Acts 25:1) – King: Agrippa II, accompanied by Bernice – “Leading men of the city” mirrors “Gentiles” in Matthew 10:18, widening the audience. • Paul’s appearance was not accidental; it was divinely orchestrated, echoing: – Acts 9:15: “This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings.” – Acts 23:11: “Take courage! As you have testified about Me in Jerusalem, so also you must testify in Rome.” Purpose of the Platform • Testimony—exactly what Jesus predicted: – Paul recounts his conversion (Acts 26:12–18), placing the gospel before royalty. – Festus labels Paul “insane” (Acts 26:24), yet Agrippa is almost persuaded (Acts 26:28). • Validation of Scripture—every detail stands secure; God’s word does not fail. • Advancement of the gospel—political halls become pulpits when God positions His servants. Threading the Connection 1. Same Audience Categories – Matthew: “governors and kings.” – Acts: Festus (governor) and Agrippa (king). 2. Same Motive – Matthew: “on My account.” – Acts: Paul imprisoned “for the hope of Israel” (Acts 28:20), i.e., Christ. 3. Same Outcome – Matthew: “as a testimony.” – Acts: Paul delivers a clear, reasoned defense of the resurrection (Acts 26:22–23). Wider Biblical Echoes • Daniel 2:28, 47—pagan kings hear God’s revelations through faithful servants. • 1 Peter 3:15—“Always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you.” Paul models this readiness. • Revelation 1:5–6—Christ “has made us a kingdom, priests to His God,” preparing believers to stand before earthly powers with heavenly authority. Takeaways for Today • Expect God to honor His promises; what He speaks, He completes. • Opposition often becomes opportunity; courts, workplaces, and classrooms can mirror Festus’s hall. • Courage flows from certainty—Paul’s boldness rested on Christ’s prior word in Matthew 10:18. • Faithful witness may not secure acquittal on earth (Paul still appeals to Caesar), but it magnifies Jesus before all who listen. Summary Acts 25:23 is a living proof that Jesus’ promise in Matthew 10:18 was—and remains—trustworthy. The Lord who sends His people before “governors and kings” also fills those moments with gospel purpose, turning intimidating audiences into divine appointments. |
    |