Acts 26:1

Agrippa said to Paul, "You have permission to speak for yourself." Then Paul stretched out his hand and began his defense:

Study Bible

Then Agrippa
The mention of "Agrippa" refers to Herod Agrippa II, the last of the Herodian dynasty, a line of rulers with a complex history intertwined with the Roman Empire and Jewish affairs. Agrippa II was known for his knowledge of Jewish customs and laws, which is significant in this context as Paul is about to present his case. Historically, Agrippa's presence highlights the political and religious tensions of the time, as he was a figure who straddled both Roman authority and Jewish tradition.

said to Paul
This phrase indicates a direct communication between King Agrippa and the Apostle Paul. Paul, formerly Saul of Tarsus, was a Pharisee and a Roman citizen, uniquely positioned to bridge Jewish and Gentile worlds. The interaction here is not just a legal proceeding but a moment of profound spiritual and cultural exchange. Paul's background as a Roman citizen and a Jew gives him a unique platform to speak to Agrippa, who is familiar with both worlds.

You have permission to speak for yourself
The granting of "permission" is crucial, as it underscores the legal and formal nature of this hearing. In Roman judicial proceedings, the accused was often given the opportunity to defend themselves. This permission also symbolizes a divine opportunity for Paul to witness about Christ before rulers and kings, fulfilling the prophecy given to him at his conversion (Acts 9:15). It is a moment where earthly authority intersects with divine purpose.

So Paul motioned with his hand
The act of "motioning with his hand" is a gesture of authority and readiness to speak. In ancient rhetoric, such gestures were common to command attention and signal the beginning of a speech. This physical action by Paul indicates his confidence and preparedness to present his case. It also reflects his role as an orator, a skill he honed through his education and previous experiences in public speaking.

and began his defense
The word "defense" comes from the Greek "apologia," which means a reasoned argument or explanation. This is not merely a legal defense but an apologetic for the Christian faith. Paul’s defense is both personal and theological, as he recounts his conversion and mission. This moment is pivotal, as Paul uses his defense to articulate the gospel message, turning a legal trial into an evangelistic opportunity. His defense is rooted in his personal testimony and the transformative power of Christ, serving as an example of how believers are called to witness in all circumstances.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Agrippa
King Herod Agrippa II, the ruler of the region, who was well-versed in Jewish customs and controversies. He was the great-grandson of Herod the Great.

2. Paul
The Apostle Paul, formerly known as Saul of Tarsus, who was a Pharisee and a zealous persecutor of Christians before his conversion. He is now defending his faith and mission before Agrippa.

3. Defense
This event is part of Paul's legal defense against accusations made by Jewish leaders. It is a significant moment where Paul shares his testimony and the gospel message.

4. Caesarea
The location where this hearing takes place. It was a major Roman city and the administrative center of the province of Judea.

5. Roman Legal System
The context of this event is a legal proceeding under Roman law, highlighting the intersection of Roman authority and Jewish religious issues.

Teaching Points

Courage in Witnessing
Paul demonstrates courage in sharing his faith, even in the face of powerful authorities. Believers are encouraged to be bold in their witness for Christ.

Preparedness to Defend the Faith
Like Paul, Christians should be prepared to articulate their faith and the reasons for their hope in Christ, as instructed in 1 Peter 3:15.

Respectful Engagement
Paul shows respect to Agrippa by acknowledging his authority and knowledge. Believers should engage others respectfully, even when they disagree.

God's Sovereignty in Trials
Paul's situation reminds us that God can use difficult circumstances for His purposes, including the spread of the gospel.

The Power of Personal Testimony
Paul's defense includes his personal testimony, illustrating the power of sharing one's personal encounter with Christ as a tool for evangelism.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Paul's approach to his defense before Agrippa demonstrate his understanding of his audience, and how can we apply this in our own conversations about faith?

2. In what ways does Paul's testimony in Acts 26 reflect the transformation described in Acts 9, and how can reflecting on our own transformation strengthen our witness?

3. How does Paul's respectful engagement with Agrippa serve as a model for interacting with those in authority or with differing beliefs?

4. What can we learn from Paul's example about trusting God's sovereignty in challenging situations, and how can this perspective change our response to trials?

5. How does the concept of being prepared to give a defense for our faith, as seen in Paul's example and 1 Peter 3:15, challenge us to deepen our understanding of the gospel?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 9
This chapter details Paul's conversion experience on the road to Damascus, which he recounts in his defense before Agrippa.

1 Peter 3:15
This verse encourages believers to always be prepared to give a defense for their faith, similar to Paul's readiness to speak before Agrippa.

Philippians 1:7
Paul speaks of his defense and confirmation of the gospel, which aligns with his actions in Acts 26.