Acts 26
BSB1 Agrippa said to Paul, “You have permission to speak for yourself.” Then Paul stretched out his hand and began his defense: 2 “King Agrippa, I consider myself fortunate to stand before you today to defend myself against all the accusations of the Jews, 3 especially since you are acquainted with all the Jewish customs and controversies. I beg you, therefore, to listen to me patiently. 4 Surely all the Jews know how I have lived from the earliest days of my youth, among my own people and in Jerusalem. 5 They have known me for a long time and can testify, if they are willing, that I lived as a Pharisee, adhering to the strictest sect of our religion. 6 And now I stand on trial because of my hope in the promise that God made to our fathers, 7 the promise our twelve tribes are hoping to realize as they earnestly serve God day and night. It is because of this hope, O king, that I am accused by the Jews. 8 Why would any of you consider it incredible that God raises the dead? 9 So then, I too was convinced that I ought to do all I could to oppose the name of Jesus of Nazareth. 10 And that is what I did in Jerusalem. With authority from the chief priests I put many of the saints in prison, and when they were condemned to death, I cast my vote against them. 11 I frequently had them punished in the synagogues, and I tried to make them blaspheme. In my raging fury against them, I even went to foreign cities to persecute them. 12 In this pursuit I was on my way to Damascus with the authority and commission of the chief priests. 13 About noon, O king, as I was on the road, I saw a light from heaven, brighter than the sun, shining around me and my companions. 14 We all fell to the ground, and I heard a voice say to me in Hebrew, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.’ 15 ‘Who are You, Lord?’ I asked. ‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,’ the Lord replied. 16 ‘But get up and stand on your feet. For I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and as a witness of what you have seen from Me and what I will show you. 17 I will rescue you from your own people and from the Gentiles. I am sending you to them 18 to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those sanctified by faith in Me.’ 19 So then, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision. 20 First to those in Damascus and Jerusalem, then to everyone in the region of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, I declared that they should repent and turn to God, performing deeds worthy of their repentance. 21 For this reason the Jews seized me in the temple courts and tried to kill me. 22 But I have had God’s help to this day, and I stand here to testify to small and great alike. I am saying nothing beyond what the prophets and Moses said would happen: 23 that the Christ would suffer, and as the first to rise from the dead, would proclaim light to our people and to the Gentiles." 24 At this stage of Paul’s defense, Festus exclaimed in a loud voice, “You are insane, Paul! Your great learning is driving you to madness!" 25 But Paul answered, “I am not insane, most excellent Festus; I am speaking words of truth and sobriety. 26 For the king knows about these matters, and I can speak freely to him. I am confident that none of this has escaped his notice, because it was not done in a corner. 27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do." 28 Then Agrippa said to Paul, “Can you persuade me in such a short time to become a Christian?" 29 “Short time or long,” Paul replied, “I wish to God that not only you but all who hear me this day may become what I am, except for these chains." 30 Then the king and the governor rose, along with Bernice and those seated with them. 31 On their way out, they said to one another, “This man has done nothing worthy of death or imprisonment." 32 And Agrippa said to Festus, “This man could have been released if he had not appealed to Caesar."
Study Notes — Acts 26
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Acts 26
- Themes from Acts 26
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Acts 26
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Paul stands before King Agrippa, Festus, and other dignitaries to defend himself against the charges brought by the Jewish leaders. He begins by expressing his gratitude to Agrippa for allowing him to speak and then launches into a personal testimony of his life, from his strict Pharisaic upbringing to his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. Paul shares how he was called by Jesus to preach to the Gentiles, and how he has faithfully fulfilled this commission despite suffering and persecution. He appeals to Agrippa to believe in Jesus, and the king responds by saying that Paul is almost persuaded. The chapter ends with Festus interrupting, saying that Paul is crazy, but Agrippa notes that Paul could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar. Key verses include Acts 26:1, Acts 26:9-11, and Acts 26:19-23, which highlight Paul's conversion, calling, and commitment to preaching the gospel.
Context for the Chapter
This chapter is part of the larger narrative of Acts, which records the early history of the Christian church. Paul's defense before Agrippa is a key moment in the book, as it highlights the tension between the Christian faith and the Jewish leaders who oppose it. The chapter also serves as a bridge between Paul's ministry in the Mediterranean world and his eventual appeal to Caesar, which will be the focus of the remaining chapters in Acts. As seen in Acts 25:11-12, Paul's appeal to Caesar sets the stage for his journey to Rome, which will be a pivotal moment in the spread of the gospel.
Heart Application
This chapter encourages believers to stand boldly for their faith, even in the face of opposition and adversity. Paul's testimony serves as a model for sharing the gospel with others, and his commitment to his calling is a reminder to believers of the importance of obedience to God's will. As seen in Acts 26:19-23, Paul's obedience to God's will is a powerful example of what it means to live a life surrendered to Christ.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter is about Paul, a man who used to hate Christians, but then he met Jesus and his life was changed. He wants to tell everyone about Jesus, but some people do not want to listen. Paul is brave and tells them anyway, because he knows that Jesus is the most important thing in the world. As seen in Acts 26:1-23, Paul's testimony is a powerful example of what it means to follow Jesus.
Voices from the Church
“The gospel is not a mere set of doctrines, but a living, breathing, pulsing thing, which must be felt in the heart and spoken from the lips.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The testimony of the apostles is not a human invention, but a divine revelation, which has been given to us by the Spirit of God.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction to Paul's Defense (Acts 26:1-3) — Paul begins his defense by expressing his gratitude to Agrippa and noting the charges brought against him.
- Paul's Testimony of Conversion (Acts 26:4-11) — Paul shares his personal testimony of conversion, from his Pharisaic upbringing to his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus.
- Paul's Calling to Preach to the Gentiles (Acts 26:12-18) — Paul shares his calling from Jesus to preach to the Gentiles, and how he has faithfully fulfilled this commission despite suffering and persecution.
- Paul's Appeal to Agrippa (Acts 26:19-23) — Paul appeals to Agrippa to believe in Jesus, and the king responds by saying that Paul is almost persuaded.
- Conclusion of Paul's Defense (Acts 26:24-32) — Festus interrupts Paul, saying he is crazy, but Agrippa notes that Paul could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar.
Core Doctrines
- The Doctrine of Conversion
- This chapter teaches that conversion is a supernatural work of God, as seen in Paul's encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 26:12-18).
- The Doctrine of Calling
- Paul's calling to preach to the Gentiles is a key aspect of his ministry, and serves as a reminder to believers of the importance of obedience to God's will (Acts 26:19-23).
- The Doctrine of Faith
- The chapter highlights the importance of faith in Jesus for salvation, as seen in Paul's testimony and appeal to Agrippa (Acts 26:22-23).
- The Doctrine of Perseverance
- Paul's commitment to his calling despite suffering and persecution is a powerful example of perseverance, and serves as a reminder to believers of the importance of standing firm in their faith (Acts 26:19-23).
Lessons from Acts 26
- The Importance of Personal Testimony — Paul's testimony serves as a powerful example of the importance of sharing our personal experiences of faith with others.
- The Power of the Gospel to Transform Lives — The chapter highlights the transformative power of the gospel, as seen in Paul's conversion and subsequent ministry.
- The Importance of Obedience to God's Will — Paul's commitment to his calling serves as a reminder to believers of the importance of obedience to God's will, even in the face of adversity.
- The Role of Faith in the Christian Life — The chapter highlights the importance of faith in Jesus for salvation, and serves as a reminder to believers of the need to trust in God's sovereignty and provision.
- The Tension Between Faith and Unbelief — The chapter highlights the tension between those who believe in Jesus and those who do not, and serves as a reminder to believers of the need to stand firm in their faith.
Themes from Acts 26
- The Power of the Gospel — The chapter highlights the transformative power of the gospel, as seen in Paul's conversion and subsequent ministry.
- The Importance of Personal Testimony — Paul's testimony serves as a powerful example of the importance of sharing our personal experiences of faith with others.
- The Role of Faith in the Christian Life — The chapter highlights the importance of faith in Jesus for salvation, and serves as a reminder to believers of the need to trust in God's sovereignty and provision.
- The Tension Between Faith and Unbelief — The chapter highlights the tension between those who believe in Jesus and those who do not, and serves as a reminder to believers of the need to stand firm in their faith.
- The Importance of Obedience to God's Will — Paul's commitment to his calling serves as a reminder to believers of the importance of obedience to God's will, even in the face of adversity.
Questions for Meditation
- What can we learn from Paul's testimony about the power of the gospel to transform lives?
- How does Paul's commitment to his calling serve as a model for believers today?
- What role does faith play in the Christian life, according to this chapter?
- How does the chapter highlight the tension between faith and unbelief?
- What can we learn from Paul's bravery in sharing the gospel, despite the risk of persecution?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction to Paul's Defense (Acts 26:1-3)
| 26:1 | Paul begins his defense by expressing his gratitude to Agrippa and noting the charges brought against him. |
| 26:2 | Paul notes that he is being accused by the Jewish leaders, and expresses his desire to defend himself before Agrippa. |
2. Paul's Testimony of Conversion (Acts 26:4-11)
| 26:4 | Paul shares his personal testimony of conversion, from his Pharisaic upbringing to his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. |
| 26:5 | Paul notes that he was a zealous Pharisee, and that he persecuted the church before his conversion. |
3. Paul's Calling to Preach to the Gentiles (Acts 26:12-18)
| 26:12 | Paul shares his calling from Jesus to preach to the Gentiles, and how he has faithfully fulfilled this commission despite suffering and persecution. |
| 26:13 | Paul notes that he was blinded by a bright light on the road to Damascus, and that he heard the voice of Jesus. |
4. Paul's Appeal to Agrippa (Acts 26:19-23)
| 26:19 | Paul appeals to Agrippa to believe in Jesus, and notes that he is not disobedient to the heavenly vision. |
| 26:20 | Paul shares his message of repentance and faith in Jesus, and notes that he has preached this message to both Jews and Gentiles. |
5. Conclusion of Paul's Defense (Acts 26:24-32)
| 26:24 | Festus interrupts Paul, saying he is crazy, but Agrippa notes that Paul could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar. |
| 26:25 | Paul responds to Festus, noting that he is not crazy, but is speaking the truth about Jesus. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Acts 26?
The main theme of Acts 26 is Paul's defense before Agrippa, where he shares his testimony of conversion and calling to preach to the Gentiles. As seen in Acts 26:1-23, Paul's message is centered on the gospel of Jesus Christ.
What is the significance of Paul's encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus?
Paul's encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus is a pivotal moment in his life, as it marks his conversion from a Pharisee to a follower of Jesus. As seen in Acts 26:12-18, this encounter serves as the foundation for Paul's subsequent ministry and message.
How does Paul's commitment to his calling serve as a model for believers today?
Paul's commitment to his calling serves as a reminder to believers of the importance of obedience to God's will, even in the face of adversity. As seen in Acts 26:19-23, Paul's bravery and perseverance in the face of opposition are a powerful example for believers to follow.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Acts 26:12 → Genesis 12:3 | The promise to Abraham that all nations will be blessed in him is fulfilled in Jesus, who commissions Paul to preach to the Gentiles. |
| 2 | Acts 26:13 → Exodus 34:29-35 | The bright light that blinds Paul on the road to Damascus is reminiscent of the glory of God that Moses experienced on Mount Sinai. |
| 3 | Acts 26:14 → Isaiah 6:1-5 | The voice of Jesus that Paul hears is similar to the voice of God that Isaiah hears in his vision of the throne room. |
| 4 | Acts 26:15 → Jeremiah 1:4-10 | Paul's calling to preach to the Gentiles is similar to Jeremiah's calling to preach to the nations. |
| 5 | Acts 26:16 → Ezekiel 2:1-3:11 | Paul's commission to preach to the Gentiles is similar to Ezekiel's commission to preach to the house of Israel. |
| 6 | Acts 26:17 → Matthew 28:18-20 | Paul's message of repentance and faith in Jesus is similar to the Great Commission that Jesus gives to his disciples. |
| 7 | Acts 26:18 → Luke 24:44-49 | Paul's preaching of the gospel to the Gentiles is a fulfillment of Jesus' command to preach the gospel to all nations. |
| 8 | Acts 26:19 → Romans 1:1-7 | Paul's obedience to the heavenly vision is similar to his statement in Romans that he is a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God. |
Sermons on Acts 26
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Be Rich: I Know a Secret by Warren Wiersbe | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the mystery in the teachings of the apostle Paul. The mystery refers to the fact that when a person is saved, whether they |
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(1986 Prairie Series) 1 - Sent, Went, Put by Major Ian Thomas | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the privilege of being expendable for the Lord Jesus and allowing Him to work in His own way and time. The sermon highlights the power of God |
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Building the Walls by Duncan Campbell | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of proclaiming the word of God and fulfilling the commission given by God. He uses the story of Nehemiah as an example of som |
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Christians: Almost or Altogether? by Warren Wiersbe | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of trusting in the Lord Jesus based on the teachings of the prophets. He recounts the conversation between Paul, Festus, and |
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Almost Persuaded by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the preacher begins by expressing gratitude and praise to God. He then addresses a specific person, a girl he met on the street who was carrying a baby, and emphasi |
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What Is a Christian by Alan Redpath | In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal experience of being a businessman who was torn between pursuing worldly success and following God's calling. He emphasizes the impor |
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Reading the Bible Slowly by Richard Wurmbrand | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the mission of helping families of Christian martyrs and broadcasting the gospel to communist countries. They emphasize the importance of prov |
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The Life of David Brainerd - Part. 3 by Jonathan Edwards | The sermon transcript describes the preacher's physical weakness and pain, comparing it to a man losing all his possessions in a small boat drifting down a swift river. Despite his |
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Doing the Revealed Things by Jackie Pullinger | In this sermon, the speaker shares a heartbreaking story about a young girl who was sold into prostitution in Nepal due to poverty and gambling debts. The speaker emphasizes the im |
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The Mental Agonies of Hell (Reading) by Robert Murray M'Cheyne | The video is a sermon by Robert Murray McChain on the topic of soul winning. McChain emphasizes the importance of instructing individuals in the truth of God as a key process in le |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Acts 26
In this chapter, we see Paul standing before Agrippa, Festus, and other dignitaries, defending himself against the charges brought by the Jewish leaders. Paul's testimony is a powerful declaration of his faith, and a call to repentance for his hearers. As Matthew Henry notes, Paul's speech is a 'noble and courageous defense' of the gospel, and serves as a reminder to believers of the importance of standing firm in their faith, even in the face of adversity. Henry also highlights the significance of Paul's encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, noting that it is a 'remarkable instance' of the power of the gospel to transform lives. As seen in Acts 26:12-18, Paul's conversion is a pivotal moment in his life, and serves as the foundation for his subsequent ministry and message. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
Paul's Confidence
Paul stands before his accusers with confidence and boldness, demonstrating his trust in God and his message. This is evident in Acts 26:1, where he expresses his gratitude to Agrippa for allowing him to speak.
The Power of Testimony
Paul's personal testimony is a powerful tool for sharing the gospel, as it provides a unique and relatable perspective on the Christian faith. This is seen in Acts 26:9-11, where Paul shares his experience on the road to Damascus.
The Tension Between Faith and Unbelief
The chapter highlights the tension between those who believe in Jesus and those who do not, as seen in the reactions of Festus and Agrippa to Paul's message. This is evident in Acts 26:24-25, where Festus interrupts Paul, saying he is crazy, while Agrippa notes that Paul is almost persuaded.