Bold Witness in the Face of Opposition

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Acts 26 occurs during Paul's imprisonment in Caesarea, where he appeals to King Agrippa to hear his defense. Previously, Paul was arrested in Jerusalem due to accusations from Jewish leaders who opposed his teaching about Jesus. This chapter fits into the larger narrative of Acts by showing how God's plan to spread the gospel unfolds through Paul's trials and testimony. Understanding the political and religious tensions of the time helps us grasp why Paul’s defense before a Jewish king and Roman officials was pivotal for advancing the gospel to the Gentiles.

What You'll Learn

• How Paul’s personal testimony powerfully connects his past as a Pharisee to his present mission in Christ.
• The significance of the resurrection hope as the foundation of Christian faith and Paul’s defense.
• God’s sovereign calling and commissioning of Paul to bring light to both Jews and Gentiles.
• The cultural and religious background that shaped Paul’s initial persecution of Christians.
• The importance of repentance and turning to God as central to the gospel message Paul preaches.
• The response of King Agrippa illustrates the challenge of genuine belief and the call to decision.

God’s sovereign plan transforms lives and calls believers to boldly proclaim the gospel despite opposition.

Bible Translation Note: All Scripture on this page is quoted from the King James Version (KJV) and presented in full without alteration.

Acts 26:1 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Thou art permitted to speak for thyself. Then Paul stretched forth the hand, and answered for himself:

Acts 26:2 I think myself happy, king Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself this day before thee touching all the things whereof I am accused of the Jews:

Acts 26:3 Especially because I know thee to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.

Acts 26:4 My manner of life from my youth, which was at the first among mine own nation at Jerusalem, know all the Jews;

Acts 26:5 Which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.

Acts 26:6 And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers:

Acts 26:7 Unto which promise our twelve tribes, instantly serving God day and night, hope to come. For which hope’s sake, king Agrippa, I am accused of the Jews.

Acts 26:8 Why should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God should raise the dead?

Acts 26:9 I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth.

Acts 26:10 Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them.

Acts 26:11 And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities.

Acts 26:12 Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests,

Acts 26:13 At midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me.

Acts 26:14 And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

Acts 26:15 And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.

Acts 26:16 But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee;

Acts 26:17 Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee,

Acts 26:18 To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.

Acts 26:19 Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision:

Acts 26:20 But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance.

Acts 26:21 For these causes the Jews caught me in the temple, and went about to kill me.

Acts 26:22 Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come:

Acts 26:23 That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles.

Acts 26:24 And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad.

Acts 26:25 But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness.

Acts 26:26 For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner.

Acts 26:27 King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest.

Acts 26:28 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.

Acts 26:29 And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.

Acts 26:30 And when he had thus spoken, the king rose up, and the governor, and Bernice, and they that sat with them:

Acts 26:31 And when they were gone aside, they talked between themselves, saying, This man doeth nothing worthy of death or of bonds.

Acts 26:32 Then said Agrippa unto Festus, This man might have been set at liberty, if he had not appealed unto Caesar.

Acts 26:1

Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Thou art permitted to speak for thyself. Then Paul stretched forth the hand, and answered for himself:

Study: King Agrippa grants Paul the opportunity to speak for himself, highlighting the formal and respectful setting of this defense. Paul’s readiness to respond shows his confidence in God’s guidance and the importance of personal testimony in proclaiming the gospel.

Acts 26:2

I think myself happy, king Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself this day before thee touching all the things whereof I am accused of the Jews:

Study: Paul expresses gratitude for the chance to defend himself before Agrippa, recognizing the significance of this moment. His use of 'happy' reflects a deep trust in God’s providence, knowing that this testimony serves a greater purpose beyond his own defense.

Acts 26:3

Especially because I know thee to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.

Study: Paul appeals to Agrippa’s knowledge of Jewish customs, establishing common ground and respect. This approach helps Agrippa understand the context of Paul’s accusations and underscores the cultural tensions involved in Paul’s mission.

Acts 26:4

My manner of life from my youth, which was at the first among mine own nation at Jerusalem, know all the Jews;

Study: Paul begins his testimony by referencing his early life among the Jews in Jerusalem, grounding his story in a shared heritage. This connection emphasizes his credibility and the dramatic nature of his transformation.

Acts 26:5

Which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.

Study: Paul identifies himself as a Pharisee, known for strict adherence to the Jewish law, which explains his initial opposition to Christians. This detail reveals the depth of his former zeal and the radical nature of his conversion.

Acts 26:6

And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers:

Study: Paul states that he is judged because of the hope in God’s promises to the fathers, linking his faith to the covenant promises given to Israel. This shows that the gospel fulfills God’s longstanding plan rather than contradicting it.

Acts 26:7

Unto which promise our twelve tribes, instantly serving God day and night, hope to come. For which hope’s sake, king Agrippa, I am accused of the Jews.

Study: Paul highlights the twelve tribes’ hope in God, emphasizing the continuity of God’s covenant people. His accusation by the Jews is thus rooted in their misunderstanding of this hope’s fulfillment in Christ.

Acts 26:8

Why should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God should raise the dead?

Study: Paul challenges the skepticism about resurrection, a core Jewish belief, by asking why it should be incredible that God raises the dead. This question confronts Agrippa and listeners with the foundational truth of the gospel.

Acts 26:9

I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth.

Study: Paul honestly recounts his former conviction to oppose Jesus, showing the sincerity and intensity of his past beliefs. This contrast highlights the power of God’s grace to transform even the fiercest adversaries.

Acts 26:10

Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them.

Study: Paul’s active persecution of Christians, including imprisoning and consenting to their deaths, underscores his former hostility. This background magnifies the significance of his conversion and God’s mercy.

Acts 26:11

And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities.

Study: Paul’s relentless persecution extended beyond Jerusalem, showing his zeal and the widespread threat he posed to the early church. This detail reveals the radical change God effected in him.

Acts 26:12

Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests,

Study: Paul’s journey to Damascus with official authority sets the stage for his encounter with Christ, emphasizing the divine interruption of his mission to persecute believers.

Acts 26:13

At midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me.

Study: The heavenly light Paul describes surpasses natural brightness, symbolizing divine revelation and authority. This supernatural event marks the turning point in Paul’s life and mission.

Acts 26:14

And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

Study: The voice addressing Paul in Hebrew connects the divine message directly to his Jewish identity and mission. The phrase 'kick against the pricks' illustrates the futility of resisting God’s will.

Acts 26:15

And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.

Study: Jesus identifies Himself as the one persecuted through Paul’s actions, revealing the unity between Christ and His followers. This personal encounter establishes Jesus’ authority and commission for Paul.

Acts 26:16

But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee;

Study: Jesus commands Paul to stand and serve as a minister and witness, showing God’s purpose in Paul’s life. This call highlights the theme of obedience and divine commissioning.

Acts 26:17

Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee,

Study: Paul is delivered from hostile peoples and sent to the Gentiles, revealing God’s expanding covenant to include all nations. This mission reflects the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham.

Acts 26:18

To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.

Study: Paul’s mission is to open eyes and turn people from darkness to light, symbolizing spiritual awakening and deliverance from Satan’s power. This verse clearly states the gospel’s transformative power and purpose.

Acts 26:19

Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision:

Study: Paul’s obedience to the heavenly vision demonstrates his submission to God’s call despite risks. His faithfulness serves as an example of trusting God’s direction.

Acts 26:20

But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance.

Study: Paul’s preaching of repentance and turning to God emphasizes the necessary response to the gospel. His ministry spans diverse regions, showing the gospel’s broad reach.

Acts 26:21

For these causes the Jews caught me in the temple, and went about to kill me.

Study: Paul’s arrest results from his bold proclamation, illustrating the cost of faithful witness. This verse connects his suffering to the opposition faced by Christ and His followers.

Acts 26:22

Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come:

Study: Paul acknowledges God’s help in continuing his testimony, highlighting divine empowerment in ministry. His message aligns with Old Testament prophecy, affirming continuity in God’s plan.

Acts 26:23

That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles.

Study: Paul declares Christ’s suffering, resurrection, and role as light to Jews and Gentiles, summarizing the gospel’s core truths. This verse links prophecy fulfillment to Jesus’ redemptive work.

Acts 26:24

And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad.

Study: Festus’s accusation of madness reflects misunderstanding and rejection of Paul’s message, a common response to gospel truth. This reaction contrasts with Paul’s calm and reasoned defense.

Acts 26:25

But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness.

Study: Paul asserts his sanity and commitment to truth, showing his confidence in the gospel’s reality. His sober witness challenges dismissive attitudes toward faith.

Acts 26:26

For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner.

Study: Paul appeals to King Agrippa’s knowledge and openness, emphasizing that his testimony is public and credible. This verse underscores the transparency and boldness of Paul’s defense.

Acts 26:27

King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest.

Study: Paul’s question about belief in the prophets invites Agrippa to consider the gospel’s foundation. His confidence in Agrippa’s faith encourages honest reflection on the message.

Acts 26:28

Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.

Study: Agrippa’s response reveals his hesitation and near persuasion, illustrating the challenge of fully embracing Christ. This moment captures the tension between intellectual assent and genuine faith.

Acts 26:29

And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.

Study: Paul’s heartfelt wish for Agrippa and all listeners to be fully committed believers shows his pastoral concern and desire for salvation. His reference to his bonds highlights the cost of discipleship.

Acts 26:30

And when he had thus spoken, the king rose up, and the governor, and Bernice, and they that sat with them:

Study: The departure of the officials signals the conclusion of Paul’s defense, marking a pause for reflection among the leaders. Their presence underscores the political and religious weight of the trial.

Acts 26:31

And when they were gone aside, they talked between themselves, saying, This man doeth nothing worthy of death or of bonds.

Study: The officials’ private discussion acknowledges Paul’s innocence regarding death or imprisonment, revealing the injustice of his situation. This insight highlights God’s protection over Paul’s mission.

Acts 26:32

Then said Agrippa unto Festus, This man might have been set at liberty, if he had not appealed unto Caesar.

Study: Agrippa’s remark about Paul’s appeal to Caesar shows the legal complexities and Paul’s strategic use of Roman law. This decision ultimately advances the gospel’s reach to Rome.

Acts 26 records Paul’s defense before King Agrippa, where he recounts his former zeal as a Pharisee, his dramatic encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, and his divine commission to preach repentance and forgiveness to Jews and Gentiles. Paul boldly proclaims the resurrection and fulfillment of prophecy, challenging his listeners to believe. Despite opposition and accusations, Paul’s testimony reveals God’s sovereign plan to bring salvation to all nations through faith in Christ.

Lord, grant us boldness like Paul to share the gospel with clarity and courage. Help us to trust Your sovereign plan, to repent sincerely, and to embrace the hope of resurrection. May our lives reflect Your light and truth, drawing others from darkness into Your kingdom. Strengthen our faith to stand firm amid opposition and to witness faithfully to Your saving grace. Amen.

• Pray daily for opportunities to share your faith with boldness and clarity.
• Read and meditate on Paul’s conversion story in Acts 9 and 26 to deepen your understanding.
• Reflect in a journal about how God has transformed your life and prepare to share your testimony.
• Memorize Acts 26:18 to remind yourself of the gospel’s power to bring spiritual light.
• Repent of any known sin and seek God’s forgiveness to walk in newness of life.
• Discuss with a friend or small group the significance of resurrection and repentance in your faith.
• Worship God for His sovereign plan that includes you in His redemptive mission.

Acts 26 captures a pivotal moment where Paul boldly defends his faith before King Agrippa, recounting his transformation and divine commission. His testimony reveals God’s sovereign plan to bring salvation through Christ’s resurrection and calls all to repentance and faith. Despite opposition, Paul’s unwavering witness exemplifies courage and obedience, encouraging believers to trust God’s purpose and proclaim the gospel boldly.

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