What is the meaning of Acts 26:3? Setting “especially since you are acquainted with all the Jewish customs and controversies. I beg you, therefore, to listen to me patiently.” (Acts 26:3) • Paul is standing before King Agrippa II and Festus in Caesarea (Acts 25:23). • He has just been granted permission to speak for himself (Acts 26:1–2). • The setting is formal yet personal: a Roman hearing mixed with Jewish sensitivities, giving Paul a unique platform to testify about Christ (Acts 22:15; Acts 23:11). Paul’s Audience • King Agrippa is steeped in Jewish life and Scripture—his family oversaw the temple and appointed high priests (Acts 25:13). • Festus and other dignitaries are less informed about Judaism (Acts 25:18–20). • Paul tailors his address, showing respect for Agrippa’s knowledge while clarifying the gospel for everyone present (1 Corinthians 9:19-22). Jewish Customs and Controversies • Customs: temple worship, sacrifices, feasts (Exodus 12:14; Leviticus 23:1-44). Paul stresses continuity with these God-given practices, fulfilled in Christ (Acts 24:14; Hebrews 10:1-10). • Controversies: resurrection of the dead (Acts 23:6-8), Messianic hope (Isaiah 11:1-10; Jeremiah 23:5-6), and Gentile inclusion (Genesis 12:3; Isaiah 49:6). • Paul’s life and message align with “the promise our fathers hoped to see fulfilled” (Acts 26:6-8), not a departure from Scripture but its realization in Jesus. Paul’s Appeal for Patience • Trials often rushed defendants; Paul seeks unhurried attention so truth can be heard (Proverbs 18:13; John 7:51). • “Listen to me patiently” models Christlike humility and confidence in God’s Word (Luke 21:15; 1 Peter 3:15-16). • Patience allows Paul to recount his conversion (Acts 26:12-18) and preach repentance and faith (Acts 26:19-23). Application for Today • Know your audience: speak biblically but with awareness of their background (Colossians 4:5-6). • Use shared foundations: point to fulfilled Scripture when dialoguing with those familiar with the Bible (Acts 17:2-3). • Request patient hearing: clarity and respect open doors for gospel witness (2 Timothy 2:24-25). • Stand firm: like Paul, rest on the literal truthfulness of God’s promises, even under scrutiny (Psalm 119:160; John 17:17). summary Acts 26:3 highlights Paul’s strategic respect for Agrippa’s knowledge of Jewish matters and his plea for an attentive hearing. By affirming shared Scripture and patiently unfolding how Jesus fulfills it, Paul exemplifies confident, courteous gospel proclamation rooted in the sure, literal Word of God. |
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