Bible Commentaries
Acts 26

Verses 1-32

Agrippa intimated to Paul that he might speak, and the apostle spent a moment in introductory words, and then uttered his great apologia, in which a twofold purpose is evident, first, his own defense, and, second, the declaration of the way of salvation. In defending himself he ignored the charges against him, but explained the change of front in his own career. Thus he dealt with the underlying reason which had prompted his enemies' opposition. He gave the story of his conversion, his commission, his consecration. Throughout it is evident that he was making plain the way of life.

Festus, a Gentile, saw nothing in Paul's discourse save evidences of madness. While Paul was answering Festus, he addressed himself principally to Agrippa, and evidently attempted to constrain him to honesty on the basis of intellectual conviction. Agrippa's answer, accurately translated in the Revision, "with but little persuasion thou wouldest fain make me a Christian," was a contemptuous sneer. Paul's rejoinder was at once dignified and tender. He calmly assumed the authority of his own position, even though he was a prisoner wearing a chain; and then in exquisite tenderness wishing that Agrippa might be such as he was, he added the words, "except these bonds."