What is the meaning of Acts 26:32? And Agrippa said to Festus “And Agrippa said to Festus…” (Acts 26:32a) • Two powerful officials stand together—King Agrippa II, familiar with Jewish law and prophets (Acts 26:3, 27), and Festus, Rome’s newly appointed governor (Acts 24:27). • Agrippa’s voice carries weight; Festus looks to him for insight after Paul’s lengthy defense (Acts 26:24–26). • Their dialogue fulfills Jesus’ promise that His witnesses would stand before kings and governors (Luke 21:12–13; Acts 9:15). • God orchestrates even pagan rulers’ conversations to advance His plan (Proverbs 21:1). This man could have been released “…‘This man could have been released…’” (Acts 26:32b) • Both rulers agree Paul committed no crime worthy of death or imprisonment (Acts 23:29; 25:25). • Similar verdicts had been voiced earlier by Roman officials regarding believers—Gallio in Corinth dismissed charges against Paul (Acts 18:14–16). • The statement underscores Paul’s innocence and highlights the unjust nature of his chains (Philippians 1:12-14). • God uses Paul’s apparent confinement as a platform for the gospel, turning opposition into opportunity (Genesis 50:20; 2 Timothy 2:9). If he had not appealed to Caesar “…‘if he had not appealed to Caesar.’” (Acts 26:32c) • Facing Jewish plots and a biased council, Paul exercised his right as a Roman citizen to appeal to the emperor (Acts 25:10-12; 22:25-29). • The appeal locked in his journey to Rome—just as the Lord had foretold (Acts 23:11; 27:24). • What looked like a legal technicality was God’s means of transporting His apostle to the heart of the empire (Romans 1:15; Acts 28:30-31). • The clause reminds us that God’s will often unfolds through ordinary legal processes, yet always in perfect timing (Psalm 37:23). summary Agrippa’s remark to Festus confirms Paul’s innocence, but it also reveals God’s bigger design: Paul’s appeal, though unnecessary for acquittal, guarantees his voyage to Rome, fulfilling Christ’s promise and expanding the gospel’s reach. Earthly decisions by human rulers serve the sovereign purpose of the Lord, who directs every step for the advance of His unchanging Word. |
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