Double Down on the Gospel

A Few Thoughts to Consider

How do you share your faith with others?

In Acts chapter 26, the Apostle Paul stands before King Agrippa II and the Roman governor Festus in the city of Caesarea. Previously arrested in Jerusalem on charges brought by Jewish religious leaders, Paul has spent two years imprisoned under Governor Felix, who left him incarcerated upon his departure.

With Festus now in office and uncertain about how to handle Paul's case—especially given its religious nuances—he consults King Agrippa during the monarch's visit. Paul is given the floor to present his defense in a grand assembly hall filled with dignitaries, military officers, and prominent citizens. Seizing the moment, he recounts his early life, dramatic conversion, and mission, aiming to persuade his influential audience of his innocence and the truth of his message.

“Paul’s speech before Agrippa provides the most comprehensive defense of his evangelistic ministry in Acts.”^[1] There are three parts to Paul’s defense. There is the introduction, his life story, and proof of the case he is trying to make. As Ajith Fernando writes, “The appearance of Agrippa and Bernice with great pomp to hear Paul speak at a gathering that included ‘high ranking officers and the leading men of the city’ (25:23) reminds us of the prediction God made to Ananias that Paul would appear before the kings of the Gentiles (9:15).”^[2]

Paul is doing just as Christ commanded him to do. And when the pressure is at its highest, he stands boldly and tells of all Christ has done. Paul describes his transformative encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, which led him to become a follower of Christ. He explains that he has been obedient to this heavenly vision by preaching repentance and turning to God among both Jews and Gentiles. He emphasizes that his teachings align with the prophecies of Moses and the prophets, asserting that the Messiah would suffer, rise from the dead, and bring light to all people. Finally, Festus has had enough. In Acts 26:24, he interjects and says,

²⁴ “You’re out of your mind, Paul! Too much study is driving you mad.” ²⁵ But Paul replied, “I’m not out of my mind, most excellent Festus. On the contrary, I’m speaking words of truth and good judgment. ²⁶ For the king knows about these matters, and I can speak boldly to him. For I am convinced that none of these things has escaped his notice, since this was not done in a corner. ²⁷ King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you believe.” ²⁸ Agrippa said to Paul, “Are you going to persuade me to become a Christian so easily?” ²⁹ “I wish before God,” replied Paul, “that whether easily or with difficulty, not only you but all who listen to me today might become as I am—except for these chains.”