Topical Bible: Select Readings: Paul in Front of Agrippa

Bible > Topical > Select Readings

◄ Select Readings: Paul in Front of Agrippa ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Introduction:
The account of Paul in front of King Agrippa is a significant event in the New Testament, found in the Book of Acts, specifically in Acts 25:13–26:32. This passage highlights the Apostle Paul's defense of his faith and mission before King Agrippa II, the last of the Herodian rulers, and provides a profound insight into early Christian apologetics and the fulfillment of Paul's divine mission.

Historical Context:
King Agrippa II, also known as Herod Agrippa II, was the son of Herod Agrippa I and the great-grandson of Herod the Great. He ruled over various territories in the region and was known for his knowledge of Jewish customs and laws. The setting of this encounter is Caesarea, where Paul had been held in custody by the Roman governor Festus. Agrippa's visit to Festus provided an opportunity for Paul to present his case.

Paul's Defense:
In Acts 26, Paul is given the opportunity to speak for himself. He begins by expressing his gratitude to Agrippa for the chance to make his defense, acknowledging Agrippa's familiarity with Jewish customs and controversies (Acts 26:2-3). Paul recounts his early life, his zealous persecution of Christians, and his dramatic conversion experience on the road to Damascus (Acts 26:4-18).

Paul emphasizes his obedience to the heavenly vision he received, which called him to be a witness to both Jews and Gentiles. He declares that his message is consistent with the teachings of the prophets and Moses, affirming the resurrection of the dead and the hope of Israel (Acts 26:19-23).

Key Themes:

1. Divine Commission:
Paul's testimony underscores the divine commission he received from Jesus Christ. His encounter with the risen Lord on the road to Damascus is a pivotal moment that transformed him from a persecutor of Christians to a devoted apostle. This divine calling is central to his defense and mission.

2. Fulfillment of Prophecy:
Paul argues that his message aligns with the Jewish Scriptures, asserting that the suffering, death, and resurrection of the Messiah were foretold by the prophets. This fulfillment of prophecy is a cornerstone of Paul's argument, aiming to demonstrate the continuity of the Christian faith with Jewish tradition.

3. Resurrection:
The resurrection of Jesus is a central theme in Paul's defense. He presents it as the hope of Israel and the foundation of the Christian faith. Paul's emphasis on the resurrection challenges both Jewish and Gentile audiences to reconsider their understanding of life, death, and salvation.

4. Witness to All Nations:
Paul's mission to the Gentiles is highlighted in his defense. He articulates his role as a witness to all people, emphasizing the inclusivity of the Gospel message. This reflects the early Christian understanding of the universal scope of salvation through Christ.

Reaction of Agrippa and Festus:
The response to Paul's defense is mixed. Festus interrupts Paul, accusing him of being out of his mind due to his great learning (Acts 26:24). Paul calmly refutes this, appealing to Agrippa's knowledge of the prophets. Agrippa's reaction is more nuanced; he acknowledges the persuasiveness of Paul's argument but stops short of a full commitment, famously stating, "In such a short time, would you persuade me to become a Christian?" (Acts 26:28).

Conclusion of the Hearing:
The hearing concludes with Agrippa and Festus agreeing that Paul has done nothing deserving death or imprisonment. Agrippa remarks, "This man could have been released if he had not appealed to Caesar" (Acts 26:32). This statement underscores the legal and political complexities surrounding Paul's case and sets the stage for his eventual journey to Rome.

Significance:
The account of Paul before Agrippa is a powerful narrative that illustrates the early Christian commitment to the truth of the Gospel, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the transformative power of Christ's resurrection. It serves as a testament to the boldness and conviction of the apostolic witness in the face of political and religious opposition.

Nave's Topical Index

Acts 26:1
Then Agrippa said to Paul, You are permitted to speak for yourself. Then Paul stretched forth the hand, and answered for himself:
Nave's Topical Index