Acts chapter 26 brings us into a dramatic moment where Paul, standing before King Agrippa, delivers one of his most powerful testimonies. This is more than just a legal defense; it is an opportunity for us to witness how faith can shine even in the midst of trials. Paul’s speech is filled with passion, conviction, and an unshakable belief in the calling God has placed on his life. Through his words, we are reminded that no matter where we find ourselves, our mission remains the same: to share the truth of Christ.
The chapter begins with King Agrippa giving Paul permission to speak for himself. Unlike previous hearings, this is not a trial in the formal sense, but more of an inquiry into Paul’s case. Festus, the Roman governor, is unsure of what to write to Caesar regarding Paul’s charges, and he hopes Agrippa, who has a deep knowledge of Jewish customs and beliefs, can help clarify the situation. For Paul, however, this is not merely about legal matters; it is a divinely appointed opportunity to proclaim the gospel to yet another powerful leader.
Paul begins by expressing his gratitude to Agrippa for allowing him to speak, acknowledging that Agrippa is familiar with Jewish customs and controversies. He then shares his personal story, tracing his journey from his early life to his present circumstances. Paul reminds us that he was once a devout Pharisee, fully committed to the strictest interpretation of Jewish law. He was not just a follower of tradition; he was an enforcer of it. His zeal for the law led him to actively persecute followers of Jesus, believing them to be a threat to the faith of his ancestors.
He recalls how he went from synagogue to synagogue, punishing believers and even casting his vote for their deaths. Paul’s honesty about his past reminds us that no one is beyond redemption. If God can take someone who once hated and opposed the gospel and transform him into one of its greatest messengers, then surely He can work in any of us. Paul’s story is proof that God’s grace is greater than our worst mistakes.
But everything changed for Paul on the road to Damascus. He describes the moment when a bright light from heaven surrounded him, and he fell to the ground, hearing a voice say, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads." This phrase reminds us that Paul had been resisting God’s call without realizing it. Jesus Himself confronted him, revealing that in persecuting His followers, Paul was actually persecuting the Lord.
Paul recounts how Jesus gave him a new mission: to open the eyes of both Jews and Gentiles, to turn them from darkness to light, and to bring them from the power of Satan to God so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those sanctified by faith. This is the heart of the gospel—a call to transformation, to leave behind the old ways and step into the new life that Christ offers. Paul’s encounter with Jesus was not just a moment of conversion; it was a commissioning. He was given a purpose, and from that day forward, he never looked back.
Paul then tells Agrippa that he obeyed the heavenly vision, preaching first to the Jews and then to the Gentiles, calling all people to repent and turn to God. This, he explains, is why the Jews seized him and sought to kill him. It was not because he had broken any law, but because he preached that Jesus, the promised Messiah, had risen from the dead and offered salvation to all. Paul’s message was not one of rebellion, but of fulfillment—fulfillment of the very promises found in the Scriptures.
At this point, Festus interrupts Paul, exclaiming that he must be out of his mind and that too much learning has driven him insane. But Paul remains calm, stating that what he is saying is true and reasonable. He then turns directly to Agrippa, asking if he believes in the prophets. It is a bold moment. Paul is not afraid to challenge the king, not for political gain, but for the sake of the gospel.
Agrippa, clearly uncomfortable, responds, "With a little persuasion, are you trying to make me a Christian?" Paul's response is profound: "I pray to God that whether with little or much, not only you but also all who hear me today might become as I am—except for these chains." His desire is not for personal freedom, but for the freedom of others in Christ. Even as a prisoner, Paul sees himself as spiritually free, and he longs for others to experience that same freedom.
The chapter ends with Agrippa, Festus, and the others discussing Paul’s case. They all agree that he has done nothing worthy of death or imprisonment. Agrippa even remarks that Paul could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar. But we know that Paul’s appeal was not a mistake—it was part of God’s plan. His journey to Rome is not just about legal proceedings; it is about taking the gospel to the heart of the empire.
Acts 26 reminds us of the power of personal testimony. Paul does not rely on elaborate arguments or legal defenses—he simply tells his story. He shares how God changed him, and in doing so, he invites others to experience that same transformation. This is something we can all do. Our own stories of faith, no matter how ordinary or dramatic, have the power to touch hearts and change lives.
We also see the importance of obedience. When Jesus called Paul, he did not hesitate. He embraced his mission fully, despite the cost. His example challenges us to ask ourselves if we are truly following where God leads, even when it is difficult.
Lastly, we are reminded that faithfulness is more important than personal comfort. Paul could have tried to secure his release, but his focus was not on his own freedom—it was on the gospel. His words, "except for these chains," remind us that while the world may bind us in many ways, nothing can bind the truth of Christ.
Paul’s testimony before Agrippa is a powerful reminder that our faith is not just about belief, but about transformation, mission, and courage. It encourages us to stand firm, to share our stories, and to trust that God’s plan is always unfolding, even when we cannot see the full picture.