Acts: To The Ends Of The EarthSample

Governor Festus sees in the visit of King Agrippa and his wife, Bernice, an opportunity for advice on Paul’s case.

Festus must send a covering letter with Paul to Rome. He would appreciate input from the Herodian king, Agrippa, who is the son of Herod Agrippa I and the brother of Drusilla, mentioned in chapter 24. Agrippa knew the Jewish Scriptures and had the right to appoint the Jewish high priest.

Again, Paul is on the front foot, recounting his testimony for the second time in Acts. Previously he had testified before the crowd in Jerusalem (chapter 22).

Festus interrupts the speech at Paul’s mention of the resurrection of the dead (v. 23). In Jerusalem, the crowd had stopped Paul when he claimed the Gentiles would form part of God’s people (Acts 22:21). Here, he has already moved past this point of his testimony (vv. 17–18).

On this occasion, the secular Festus stops Paul and doesn’t engage in debate (v. 24), but states that Paul is insane because of his insistence on life beyond death. Paul responds by claiming that what he is saying is both "true and reasonable" (v. 25) and appeals to Agrippa’s greater familiarity, as a Jewish leader, with these things.

The gospel will always "box above its weight." Aggressive, secular opponents are never a match for Spirit-empowered testimony. We are evidence of that.

Agrippa recognizes Paul’s persuasive intent and Paul openly responds—"pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am" (v. 29).

Paul says in Romans 10:9, "if you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."

Here Paul asserts the centrality of the resurrection. This is a word to the closed-minded secularist—"Why should any of you consider it incredible that God raises the dead?" (v. 8).

Reflection

All along the way, Paul’s obedience to his calling was costly (Acts 26:16–18). He is compelled by the love of Christ (2 Cor. 5:14–15). Are you compelled in this way? Does your obedience cost you?