Paul stood before King Agrippa, not as a criminal but as a witness for Christ. In Acts 26, we see one of the most powerful defenses of the gospel in Scripture. Paul boldly proclaims his testimony, recounting his transformation from a persecutor of Christians to an apostle of Jesus Christ.
This chapter is a continuation of Paul’s trials, beginning in Acts 21 when he was arrested in Jerusalem. He faced opposition from Jewish leaders, was imprisoned by the Romans, and defended himself before Governor Felix in Acts 24 and Festus in Acts 25. Now, before Agrippa, Paul seizes the moment to share his faith instead of pleading for his life. This moment highlights a key theme in Acts—the unstoppable spread of the gospel despite opposition.
Acts 26 challenges you to consider your own testimony. How has God worked in your life? Are you ready to share your faith, even in difficult situations? As you study this chapter, reflect on Paul’s courage and conviction. Let his example inspire you to stand firm in your faith and be a witness for Christ.
Bible Study Guide on Acts 26: What You Will Learn
- Paul’s bold defense of his faith before King Agrippa.
- The importance of personal testimony in sharing the gospel.
- How Paul’s past as a Pharisee shaped his ministry.
- The dramatic account of Paul’s conversion on the road to Damascus.
- The mission God gave Paul to preach to both Jews and Gentiles.
- Agrippa’s response and the implications of rejecting the gospel.
- How Paul remained faithful to his calling despite opposition.
- Key lessons on courage, obedience, and witnessing for Christ.
As you begin this study, take a moment to seek God’s wisdom and guidance.
Short Prayer for Guidance
Heavenly Father,
Open my heart and mind to understand Your Word. Help me learn from Paul’s testimony and apply these lessons in my own life. Give me the courage to share my faith boldly and live according to Your will. Thank You for the truth of Scripture.
Amen.
Acts 26: Background & Context
Prolog
The Book of Acts was written by Luke, the same author of the Gospel of Luke. It serves as a sequel, detailing the spread of the gospel after Jesus’ resurrection. Acts records the work of the Holy Spirit through the apostles, the growth of the early church, and the bold witness of believers despite persecution.
By Acts 26, Paul had already completed his missionary journeys and was facing legal trials for his faith. His arrest in Jerusalem led to multiple hearings before Roman officials. Each time, instead of simply defending himself, Paul used the opportunity to proclaim Christ. In this chapter, he stands before King Agrippa, presenting his case not just as a defense but as a testimony of God’s work in his life.
Historical Context
Acts was written in the first century, likely between A.D. 62-64. Paul’s trial before Agrippa occurred during the rule of the Roman governor Festus, around A.D. 59-60. The Roman Empire controlled Judea at this time, and Jewish leaders held significant religious influence. Paul’s message of salvation for both Jews and Gentiles was controversial, leading to intense opposition from Jewish authorities. His appeal to Caesar was his legal right as a Roman citizen, setting the stage for his journey to Rome.
Key People & Places
- Paul – A former Pharisee turned apostle, now defending his faith before King Agrippa. His testimony highlights God’s power to transform lives.
- King Agrippa II – The Jewish ruler appointed by Rome, knowledgeable about Jewish customs and prophecies. Paul tailors his defense to Agrippa’s understanding of the Scriptures.
- Festus – The Roman governor who succeeded Felix. He found Paul innocent of any crime deserving death but struggled with handling the case.
- Bernice – Agrippa’s sister, who was present at Paul’s trial. She was influential in political and social circles.
- Caesarea – The location of Paul’s hearing. It was a Roman administrative center in Judea.
- Jerusalem – The city where Paul was originally arrested, leading to the trials before Roman officials.
A Walk Through Acts 26
Reading the Passage
Before diving into this study, take a moment to read Acts 26 aloud. Reading Scripture aloud helps you absorb the message more deeply. It allows you to hear the weight of Paul’s words, feel the intensity of his defense, and grasp the urgency of his message. Pay attention to how Paul speaks with boldness and clarity as he stands before King Agrippa.
Verse-by-Verse Explanation
#1. Paul’s Defense Before King Agrippa (Acts 26:1-3)
Verse 1: “Then Agrippa said to Paul, ‘You are permitted to speak for yourself.’ So Paul stretched out his hand and answered for himself:”
Paul was granted permission to speak freely before King Agrippa. This was not just a legal defense but an opportunity to witness about Christ. Paul’s gesture of stretching out his hand was a common sign of addressing an audience with respect and confidence.
Explanation:
Paul understood the weight of this moment. He was not standing before just any ruler but before a man familiar with Jewish customs and prophecies. He did not approach the situation with fear but with the boldness of someone who knew his mission. Paul saw trials as platforms for the gospel. His faith in Christ gave him the confidence to speak even in the presence of powerful leaders.
Verse 2: “I think myself happy, King Agrippa, because today I shall answer for myself before you concerning all the things of which I am accused by the Jews.”
Paul expressed gratitude for the opportunity to present his case. He saw this as a chance to clarify the accusations against him and to proclaim the truth of the gospel. He addressed Agrippa respectfully, recognizing his authority in the matter.
Explanation:
Paul was not intimidated by the charges against him. He was not focused on defending his personal freedom but on defending the message of Christ. He was genuinely glad to speak before Agrippa because he knew Agrippa was well-versed in Jewish teachings. Paul’s joy came from knowing he was fulfilling God’s purpose, even in the face of adversity. He remained steadfast in his mission.
Verse 3: “Especially because you are expert in all customs and questions which have to do with the Jews. Therefore I beg you to hear me patiently.”
Paul acknowledged Agrippa’s knowledge of Jewish law and traditions. By doing so, he established common ground. He requested patience, showing that he had a well-thought-out defense that required careful listening.
Explanation:
Paul understood his audience. He knew Agrippa had studied Jewish history and prophecies, making him more capable of grasping the significance of his message. Paul did not approach him as a mere Roman official but as someone who could evaluate his words from a Jewish perspective. His request for patience indicated that he was about to share something profound. Paul was strategic in his approach, using wisdom in how he presented the truth.
Seeing Yourself in the Narrative:
Paul saw every challenge as an opportunity to share the gospel. He was not concerned with how high-ranking the people before him were. He remained faithful to his mission. This should encourage you to be bold in sharing your faith, even in difficult situations. Do you see trials as obstacles or as platforms for God’s work in your life?
You also have an audience—family, friends, co-workers—who need to hear the gospel. Like Paul, you can approach them with wisdom, respect, and confidence. You do not need a grand stage to witness. Every conversation is an opportunity to share what Christ has done for you. Will you take that opportunity?
#2. Paul’s Testimony: His Life Before Conversion (Acts 26:4-11)
Verse 4: “My manner of life from my youth, which was spent from the beginning among my own nation at Jerusalem, all the Jews know.”
Paul began his defense by pointing to his well-known past. He was not an outsider to Jewish customs or a stranger to their laws. His upbringing in Jerusalem and his strict adherence to Judaism were widely recognized among his fellow Jews.
Explanation:
Paul wanted Agrippa and the audience to understand that he was not an enemy of Judaism. He had lived as a devout Jew, following the traditions of his people. His past was public knowledge. He had been a respected member of the Jewish community. This was important because it established that his faith in Christ was not a result of ignorance but of divine revelation.
Verse 5: “They knew me from the first, if they were willing to testify, that according to the strictest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.”
Paul emphasized that he was a Pharisee, the strictest sect in Judaism. The Pharisees were deeply committed to the Law of Moses and the traditions of their ancestors. He was not a casual follower of Jewish teachings but someone who had dedicated his life to them.
Explanation:
Paul’s background as a Pharisee added weight to his testimony. The Pharisees prided themselves on their knowledge of the law and their strict observance of it. Paul was not rebelling against his heritage—he was simply testifying that the Messiah had come. This was a key argument in his defense. If a man as devoted as Paul could be transformed by Christ, it was worth listening to.
Verse 6: “And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made by God to our fathers.”
Paul made it clear that his trial was not about breaking the law but about the fulfillment of God’s promise. The hope of Israel—the coming of the Messiah—was what he preached. He was being judged not for wrongdoing but for believing in what the Scriptures had foretold.
Explanation:
Paul framed his faith in Christ as the continuation of God’s plan for Israel. He was not abandoning Judaism but embracing its fulfillment. The promise made to Abraham, Moses, and David pointed to Jesus. By putting it this way, Paul challenged his listeners to consider whether they truly believed in the promises of God. His trial was not about rebellion; it was about the truth.
Verse 7: “To this promise our twelve tribes, earnestly serving God night and day, hope to attain. For this hope’s sake, King Agrippa, I am accused by the Jews.”
Paul highlighted that all of Israel had been waiting for the Messiah. The twelve tribes longed for the fulfillment of God’s promises. Yet, when the promise came in Christ, Paul was persecuted for believing in it.
Explanation:
Paul pointed out the irony of his situation. The Jews had spent generations waiting for the Messiah, yet when He came, they rejected Him. Paul was accused because he believed what they had all been hoping for. This was a powerful argument. If they truly sought God’s promises, they should have recognized Jesus as the fulfillment. Paul’s words forced his audience to confront their own beliefs.
Verse 8: “Why should it be thought incredible by you that God raises the dead?”
Paul confronted their disbelief in the resurrection. If they believed in the power of God, why was it so hard to accept that He could raise the dead? The resurrection was the foundation of Paul’s faith.
Explanation:
Paul’s question was a challenge to their logic. The same God who created life had the power to restore it. The resurrection of Jesus was not a strange idea but a demonstration of God’s authority. If Agrippa and the others truly believed in God’s power, they had no reason to doubt the resurrection. This was a direct call for them to reconsider their rejection of Christ.
Verse 9: “Indeed, I myself thought I must do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth.”
Paul admitted that he had once opposed Jesus. He did not come to faith easily. He was convinced that persecuting Christians was the right thing to do.
Explanation:
Paul was not someone who had been easily swayed. He had been a zealous opponent of Christianity. This made his transformation even more powerful. If a man who once hated the name of Jesus could be changed, then the gospel must be true. His honesty showed humility. He was willing to admit his past mistakes to highlight the grace of God.
Verse 10: “This I also did in Jerusalem, and many of the saints I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I cast my vote against them.”
Paul described his active role in persecuting Christians. He arrested believers and supported their execution. He had full approval from Jewish leaders to do so.
Explanation:
Paul was not just an observer—he was a key participant in persecuting Christians. His authority came from the highest Jewish officials. He had once believed that opposing Christianity was an act of service to God. This made his conversion all the more remarkable. The same man who once sought to destroy the church now gave his life to build it.
Verse 11: “And I punished them often in every synagogue and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly enraged against them, I persecuted them even to foreign cities.”
Paul revealed the extent of his past hatred for Christians. He not only punished them but tried to force them to renounce their faith. His persecution extended beyond Jerusalem to other regions.
Explanation:
Paul’s zeal against Christianity knew no bounds. He was willing to travel far and wide to silence believers. His goal was to erase the name of Jesus from Jewish life. This level of hostility made his transformation even more astounding. The fact that such a man could be changed by Christ was undeniable proof of God’s power. No one was beyond God’s reach.
Seeing Yourself in the Narrative:
Paul’s testimony reminds you that no one is too far gone for God to redeem. His past was filled with mistakes, but God still had a purpose for him. If God could transform a man like Paul, He can transform you. No matter your past, He can use you for His glory. Do you believe that God’s grace is greater than your failures?
Paul also shows the power of an honest testimony. He did not hide his past. He shared it to show how Christ changed him. Your story matters. It can be a powerful tool to reach others. Are you willing to share how God has worked in your life?
#3. Paul’s Conversion on the Road to Damascus (Acts 26:12-18)
Verse 12: “While thus occupied, as I journeyed to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests,”
Paul described the moment that changed his life. He was on his way to Damascus with full permission from the religious leaders to arrest Christians. His mission was to destroy the followers of Jesus.
Explanation:
Paul was not seeking Christ—he was hunting His followers. He was fully convinced that he was doing God’s work by persecuting Christians. He had legal authority and a determined mindset. This made what happened next so significant. Paul was not a man searching for truth. He was a man convinced he already had it. Yet, Jesus was about to reveal otherwise.
Verse 13: “At midday, O king, along the road I saw a light from heaven, brighter than the sun, shining around me and those who journeyed with me.”
Paul recounted seeing an extraordinary light from heaven. This was not just any light—it was brighter than the midday sun. It surrounded him and those traveling with him.
Explanation:
The light was a divine manifestation. Its brilliance signified God’s glory and presence. The fact that it outshone the sun at its peak demonstrated its supernatural origin. Paul was on a mission of destruction, but heaven intervened. This moment shows that God takes the initiative in revealing Himself. Even the most resistant heart can be overwhelmed by His light.
Verse 14: “And when we all had fallen to the ground, I heard a voice speaking to me and saying in the Hebrew language, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.’”
The light was so powerful that Paul and his companions fell to the ground. Then Paul heard a voice speaking directly to him in Hebrew, addressing him by his former name, Saul. Jesus asked why he was persecuting Him and used an agricultural metaphor about resistance.
Explanation:
Jesus’ question exposed the truth: Paul was not just persecuting Christians—he was persecuting Christ Himself. This revealed the deep unity between Christ and His followers. The phrase “kick against the goads” referred to an ox resisting a sharp prod used to guide it. Paul had been resisting God’s direction. Despite his zeal, he was fighting against the very One he thought he was serving.
Verse 15: “So I said, ‘Who are You, Lord?’ And He said, ‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.’”
Paul responded with a question, calling the voice “Lord.” The answer shattered everything he believed. The very Jesus he opposed was alive and speaking to him.
Explanation:
Paul had been certain that Jesus was a false teacher, but now he stood face to face with the risen Christ. This was undeniable proof of the resurrection. Paul was not arguing with Christians anymore—he was confronted by the Lord Himself. This moment turned his world upside down. Everything he had believed was wrong. The man he persecuted was, in fact, the Messiah.
Verse 16: “But rise and stand on your feet; for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to make you a minister and a witness both of the things which you have seen and of the things which I will yet reveal to you.”
Jesus commanded Paul to stand and explained the purpose of this encounter. He was being called to be a minister and a witness. Paul’s entire life direction was being changed.
Explanation:
Jesus did not just stop Paul’s plans—He gave him new ones. Paul was not simply being saved; he was being sent. His mission was no longer to destroy the church but to build it. He would now testify to what he had seen and what Christ would continue to reveal. This shows that salvation is not just about redemption but also about purpose.
Verse 17: “I will deliver you from the Jewish people, as well as from the Gentiles, to whom I now send you,”
Jesus assured Paul of protection. He was being sent to the Gentiles, but opposition would come from both Jews and non-Jews. Despite this, God would deliver him.
Explanation:
Paul’s new mission would come with great challenges. The same people who once supported him would now oppose him. The Gentiles, to whom he was sent, would also resist his message. Yet, Jesus promised His protection. This was a reminder that when God calls someone, He also sustains them. Paul would face danger, but he would never be alone.
Verse 18: “To open their eyes, to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.”
Paul’s mission was to bring people from spiritual blindness to sight. He was to lead them out of darkness into the light of Christ, breaking their bondage to Satan and offering them salvation through faith.
Explanation:
This verse beautifully summarizes the gospel. Humanity is spiritually blind until Christ opens their eyes. They live in darkness until they step into His light. They are enslaved to sin and Satan until they turn to God. Paul’s mission was not just to preach but to bring transformation. Through faith in Jesus, people would receive forgiveness and become part of God’s family. This was the heart of Paul’s calling.
Seeing Yourself in the Narrative:
Paul’s conversion shows that God can reach anyone, no matter how lost they seem. You might know someone who seems resistant to the gospel. Maybe that person is you. But just as Jesus interrupted Paul’s journey, He can step into any life and change it completely. Do you believe that God’s grace is powerful enough to transform even the hardest heart?
Jesus also called Paul for a purpose. Salvation is not just about escaping judgment—it is about being sent. You have a mission too. God has given you a testimony to share. He has called you to shine His light in the darkness around you. Are you willing to stand up and follow His calling?
#4. Paul’s Ministry and His Appeal to the Gentiles (Acts 26:19-23)
Verse 19: “Therefore, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision,”
Paul stated his response to the vision. He did not reject or resist it. Instead, he obeyed what he had seen and heard.
Explanation:
Paul had a choice: ignore the vision or surrender to it. He chose obedience. This marked a complete transformation. The man who once persecuted Christians was now one of them. His words also implied that King Agrippa, too, had a choice—either to accept Paul’s testimony or reject it.
Verse 20: “but declared first to those in Damascus and in Jerusalem, and throughout all the region of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance.”
Paul described the pattern of his ministry. He started in Damascus, where he was converted, then preached in Jerusalem and Judea, and finally to the Gentiles. His message was clear: repent, turn to God, and live in a way that reflects true repentance.
Explanation:
Paul’s ministry followed a specific order—first to the Jews, then to the Gentiles. His message was not just about belief but about transformation. True repentance involves turning away from sin and living in obedience to God. Faith is not just a decision; it results in visible change. Paul emphasized that a genuine relationship with God produces a life of righteousness.
Verse 21: “For these reasons the Jews seized me in the temple and tried to kill me.”
Paul explained why he was on trial. His preaching of repentance and inclusion of the Gentiles angered the Jewish leaders, leading to his arrest.
Explanation:
Paul’s message was not welcomed by everyone. Many Jews believed they were God’s exclusive people. The idea that Gentiles could be saved offended them. This was why they attacked him. Paul was not arrested for breaking the law but for preaching the truth. This shows that following Christ often brings opposition, even from religious people.
Verse 22: “Therefore, having obtained help from God, to this day I stand, witnessing both to small and great, saying no other things than those which the prophets and Moses said would come—”
Paul credited God for sustaining him. Despite opposition, he continued to preach to all people—whether powerful or ordinary. He also affirmed that his message aligned with the Old Testament.
Explanation:
Paul did not rely on his own strength. He acknowledged that God had preserved him. His message was not new—it was rooted in Scripture. The prophets and Moses had foretold the coming of Christ. Paul was simply revealing how Jesus fulfilled those prophecies. This reinforced that Christianity was not a break from Judaism but its fulfillment.
Verse 23: “that the Christ would suffer, that He would be the first to rise from the dead, and would proclaim light to the Jewish people and to the Gentiles.”
Paul summarized the gospel. The Messiah had to suffer, rise from the dead, and bring salvation to both Jews and Gentiles.
Explanation:
The suffering and resurrection of Christ were central to Paul’s message. Many Jews expected a conquering Messiah, but Paul emphasized that Scripture predicted a suffering Savior. Jesus’ resurrection proved His victory over sin and death. The phrase “proclaim light” symbolized salvation and revelation. Jesus is the light of the world, offering life to all who believe in Him.
Seeing Yourself in the Narrative:
Paul was faithful to his calling despite hardship. He could have abandoned his mission when opposition arose, but he remained steadfast. You, too, will face challenges when you live for Christ. Are you willing to stand firm in your faith, no matter the cost?
Paul also pointed out that true repentance leads to changed actions. Salvation is not just about words—it is about transformation. Does your life reflect the reality of your faith? Are you living in a way that proves your commitment to Christ?
#5. Paul’s Defense and Agrippa’s Response (Acts 26:24-32)
Verse 24: “Now as he thus made his defense, Festus said with a loud voice, ‘Paul, you are beside yourself! Much learning is driving you mad!’”
Festus interrupted Paul’s speech, accusing him of being insane. He thought Paul’s intense study and beliefs had led him to madness.
Explanation:
Festus reacted with disbelief. To a Roman official, Paul’s testimony about visions, resurrection, and divine calling sounded irrational. Many in the world reject the gospel because it challenges human logic. The idea of a crucified and risen Savior seems foolish to those who do not believe. Paul’s boldness provoked a strong response, showing how the gospel divides those who hear it.
Verse 25: “But he said, ‘I am not mad, most noble Festus, but speak the words of truth and reason.’”
Paul calmly defended himself. He insisted that his words were not madness but truth. He remained respectful while standing firm.
Explanation:
Paul did not react emotionally. He stayed composed and confident in the truth of the gospel. Christianity is not based on myths or emotions but on historical events and divine revelation. Paul’s response teaches us that when our faith is challenged, we should answer with both respect and conviction. Truth does not need aggression to defend itself.
Verse 26: “For the king, before whom I also speak freely, knows these things; for I am convinced that none of these things escapes his attention, since this thing was not done in a corner.”
Paul turned to King Agrippa, saying that he was aware of these events. He pointed out that Christianity had not developed in secrecy.
Explanation:
Paul appealed to Agrippa’s knowledge. The events surrounding Jesus’ death and resurrection were public. The spread of Christianity was not a small, hidden movement. This was a powerful argument—if the gospel were false, it would have been exposed. Paul was showing that belief in Jesus was reasonable and based on verifiable facts.
Verse 27: “King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you do believe.”
Paul directly challenged Agrippa. He asked if he believed the Jewish prophets, implying that their writings pointed to Christ.
Explanation:
This was a bold moment. Paul was not just defending himself—he was evangelizing. He put Agrippa in a difficult position. If Agrippa admitted to believing the prophets, he would have to acknowledge that Jesus was the Messiah. Paul’s approach reminds us that the gospel requires a response. It is not just an idea to consider; it is a truth to accept or reject.
Verse 28: “Then Agrippa said to Paul, ‘You almost persuade me to become a Christian.’”
Agrippa acknowledged Paul’s argument but did not commit to believing. He admitted that Paul’s words were compelling.
Explanation:
Agrippa was intellectually convinced but spiritually uncommitted. He saw the logic in Paul’s message but refused to take the step of faith. Many people today are “almost persuaded” but never surrender to Christ. This verse is a warning—hearing the gospel is not enough. A person must respond in faith.
Verse 29: “And Paul said, ‘I would to God that not only you, but also all who hear me today, might become both almost and altogether such as I am, except for these chains.’”
Paul expressed his desire for everyone to come to faith. He wanted Agrippa and all listeners to be fully convinced, not just “almost.”
Explanation:
Paul’s heart for evangelism is clear. He was not interested in winning arguments—he wanted souls to be saved. His response also showed love, as he did not wish imprisonment or suffering upon anyone. Paul’s passion challenges us to ask: do we desire salvation for others as deeply as he did?
Verse 30-32: “When he had said these things, the king stood up, as well as the governor and Bernice and those who sat with them; and when they had gone aside, they talked among themselves, saying, ‘This man is doing nothing deserving of death or chains.’ Then Agrippa said to Festus, ‘This man might have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar.’”
The trial ended with Agrippa and the officials privately agreeing that Paul was innocent. However, because Paul had appealed to Caesar, they had no choice but to send him to Rome.
Explanation:
Agrippa and Festus recognized that Paul had committed no crime. Yet, legal procedures prevented them from freeing him. This fulfilled God’s plan—Paul had to go to Rome. Sometimes, what seems like an obstacle is actually part of God’s direction. Paul’s journey was not about avoiding trouble but about fulfilling his mission.
Seeing Yourself in the Narrative:
Agrippa was “almost persuaded” but refused to act. Many people hesitate when confronted with the truth. Maybe you have heard the gospel but keep putting off a decision. The danger of delay is real. Tomorrow is never promised. Will you be “almost” or fully committed to Christ?
Paul’s response also challenges us. He longed for everyone to know Christ. Do you share that same passion? Are you actively praying for and witnessing to those around you? The gospel is too important to keep to yourself.
Main Teachings of Acts 26
#1. The Gospel Demands a Response
Paul boldly presented the gospel before King Agrippa, Festus, and others. He made it clear that Jesus fulfilled the prophecies, suffered, died, and rose again. His message was not just historical but personal. He directly challenged Agrippa to believe. The gospel always demands a response—either acceptance or rejection. No one can remain neutral when confronted with the truth of Christ.
Many people, like Agrippa, may be intellectually convinced but refuse to commit. Being “almost persuaded” is not enough. Salvation requires full surrender to Jesus. The lesson here is clear: when we hear the gospel, we must decide. Will we follow Christ, or will we walk away unchanged? This is the most important choice anyone will ever make.
#2. True Repentance Produces a Changed Life
Paul emphasized that repentance was more than just words. It required a complete transformation—turning from sin and living a life that reflected true faith. He preached that both Jews and Gentiles must “repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance” (Acts 26:20). Genuine faith is always accompanied by a changed heart and actions that align with God’s will.
Many people claim to believe in God but show no evidence of transformation. The Bible teaches that faith without works is dead (James 2:17). A true believer does not just say they follow Christ—they live in obedience to Him. Paul’s life was a testimony to this truth. He went from persecuting Christians to preaching the gospel at great personal cost. If we truly repent, our lives will reflect it.
#3. Opposition Will Come When You Stand for Christ
Paul’s message was met with resistance. Festus thought he was insane. The Jewish leaders wanted him dead. Agrippa refused to believe. Even though Paul spoke with wisdom and truth, he faced opposition at every turn. This reminds us that standing for Christ will not always be easy. The world often rejects the gospel because it challenges human pride and sin.
Jesus warned His followers that they would face persecution (John 15:18-20). If we are faithful to God’s calling, we will encounter opposition. Some will mock us, while others may distance themselves from us. But we must remain steadfast. Paul never backed down, and neither should we. Our mission is to preach the truth, no matter the cost.
#4. God’s Plan Cannot Be Stopped
Paul stood trial not because he had broken any law, but because of God’s divine purpose. His appeal to Caesar meant he would go to Rome, which was exactly what God had planned. Human opposition could not stop God’s will. Even when things seemed unfair, God was using the situation to spread the gospel further.
This teaches us that God is sovereign over our lives. Even when we face difficulties, He is at work. What seems like a setback might actually be part of His greater plan. Paul’s journey to Rome was not easy, but it led to many opportunities to preach Christ. We must trust that God is in control, even when we do not understand His ways.
#5. The Resurrection of Christ is Central to the Faith
Paul boldly proclaimed that Jesus rose from the dead. He stated that Christ’s resurrection fulfilled the Scriptures and proved He was the Messiah. The resurrection is not just an event—it is the foundation of Christianity. Without it, there is no salvation. Paul made it clear that this truth must be preached to both Jews and Gentiles.
Today, many people question or reject the resurrection. But the Bible presents it as an undeniable reality. The empty tomb changed everything. Because Jesus conquered death, we have hope of eternal life. Our faith is not in a dead prophet but in a living Savior. Like Paul, we must boldly proclaim this truth, no matter the opposition.
#6. Evangelism Requires Boldness and Conviction
Paul did not hesitate to share his testimony. Even in chains, he preached with passion. He spoke with boldness before kings and rulers, showing no fear. He was not ashamed of the gospel. His confidence came from knowing the truth and the power of Christ working in him.
Many Christians struggle with fear when it comes to sharing their faith. But Paul’s example teaches us that the gospel must be preached boldly. We cannot wait for the perfect moment or fear rejection. The world needs to hear about Jesus, and God has called us to be His witnesses. Are you willing to step out in faith and share the good news?
Group Discussion Questions
- Why do you think Festus reacted so strongly to Paul’s message? Have you ever encountered someone who thought Christianity was foolish? How did you respond?
- King Agrippa was “almost persuaded.” What are some reasons people hesitate to fully commit to Christ today?
- Paul shared his personal testimony as part of his defense. How can your own testimony be a powerful tool for sharing the gospel?
- What does Paul’s response to opposition teach us about standing firm in our faith?
- Paul emphasized the importance of repentance. What does true repentance look like in a believer’s life?
- Paul trusted in God’s plan even when facing imprisonment. How can we trust God when we experience trials and setbacks?
- How does Paul’s confidence in the resurrection strengthen our faith today?
- What are some practical ways we can be bold in sharing our faith, even in difficult circumstances?
- Paul wished that all his listeners would believe as he did. Who in your life needs to hear the gospel, and how can you reach out to them?
- How can we ensure that we are not just “almost” persuaded, but fully committed to following Christ?
How to Embody Acts 26 in Your Life
#1. Share Your Testimony with Boldness
Paul did not hesitate to share his personal story, even in front of powerful rulers. Your testimony is a powerful tool for evangelism. Share how Christ changed your life with those around you.
Real-Life Example: If a coworker asks why you live differently, use the opportunity to share your faith journey. You don’t need to preach—just explain how Jesus transformed your life. Be open, honest, and clear about your faith.
#2. Stand Firm When Facing Opposition
Paul faced rejection, ridicule, and imprisonment, yet he remained steadfast. If you stand for Christ, opposition will come. Stay rooted in Scripture and prayer to remain strong in your faith.
Real-Life Example: If a friend or family member challenges your beliefs, respond with love and confidence. Instead of arguing, explain why you believe what you do and point them to Scripture. Stand firm but remain gracious.
#3. Trust in God’s Plan Even When Life is Difficult
Paul’s imprisonment seemed like a setback, but it was part of God’s greater purpose. When life takes an unexpected turn, trust that God is in control. His plan is bigger than your circumstances.
Real-Life Example: If you lose a job, face illness, or go through hardship, pray for wisdom and trust that God is leading you. Use the season of struggle to grow closer to Him, just as Paul did.
#4. Be Intentional About Repentance and Growth
Paul preached that true repentance results in a changed life. Examine your heart regularly to make sure your actions align with your faith. Repentance isn’t just about saying sorry—it’s about real change.
Real-Life Example: If you struggle with a sinful habit, take intentional steps to overcome it. This could mean seeking accountability, setting up safeguards, or immersing yourself in Scripture to renew your mind.
#5. Proclaim the Resurrection of Christ with Conviction
Paul centered his defense on the resurrection of Jesus. This truth is the foundation of Christianity. Be ready to explain why you believe in the risen Christ and why it matters.
Real-Life Example: If someone questions the resurrection, have a response prepared. Study Scripture, read apologetics, and be confident in sharing that Jesus is alive. Your passion for the truth can impact others.
Cross-References & Supporting Scriptures
- Acts 9:3-6 – Paul’s original encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus.
- Romans 1:16 – The power of the gospel and boldness in proclaiming it.
- 2 Timothy 1:8 – Encouragement to not be ashamed of the testimony of Christ.
- 1 Peter 3:15 – Always be ready to give a defense for your faith.
- Luke 24:46-48 – Jesus’ command to preach repentance and forgiveness to all nations.
- John 11:25-26 – Jesus declares He is the resurrection and the life.
- Philippians 1:29-30 – Suffering for Christ is part of following Him.
- Matthew 10:32-33 – Jesus calls us to confess Him before others.
- Isaiah 53:3-5 – Prophecy of the suffering Messiah, fulfilled in Jesus.
- 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 – Paul’s defense of the resurrection and eyewitness testimonies.
A Prayer for Aligning Our Life with Acts 26
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the powerful testimony of Paul and the boldness he showed in proclaiming the gospel. Help us to stand firm in our faith, even when we face opposition. Give us the courage to share our testimony and the wisdom to speak truth with love. Strengthen our trust in Your plan, knowing that every circumstance can be used for Your glory.
Lord, help us to live lives that reflect true repentance and transformation. Let our words and actions align with our faith. Remind us daily of the power of the resurrection and the hope we have in Christ. Guide us to be faithful witnesses, bringing the message of salvation to those around us. Thank You for Your grace, Your truth, and the opportunity to serve You.
Amen.
Closing Remarks
Paul’s defense before King Agrippa is a powerful reminder that the gospel demands a response. He boldly shared his testimony, stood firm in his faith, and proclaimed the resurrection of Christ. His life teaches us that following Jesus requires courage, conviction, and complete trust in God’s plan. We, too, are called to stand for truth, even when faced with opposition.
As you reflect on Acts 26, consider how you can apply its lessons in your life. Are you sharing your faith with boldness? Are you trusting God in difficult seasons? Take time to pray, study, and grow deeper in your relationship with Christ. If you want to continue exploring Paul’s journey, read Acts 27, where he faces yet another test of faith—this time, in the midst of a storm.