Acts 26 2

Acts 26:2 kjv

I think myself happy, king Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself this day before thee touching all the things whereof I am accused of the Jews:

Acts 26:2 nkjv

"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,

Acts 26:2 niv

"King Agrippa, I consider myself fortunate to stand before you today as I make my defense against all the accusations of the Jews,

Acts 26:2 esv

"I consider myself fortunate that it is before you, King Agrippa, I am going to make my defense today against all the accusations of the Jews,

Acts 26:2 nlt

"I am fortunate, King Agrippa, that you are the one hearing my defense today against all these accusations made by the Jewish leaders,

Acts 26 verses

Acts 26 2 Meaning

The Apostle Paul expresses a profound sense of privilege and opportune disposition, considering himself fortunate to present his defense before King Agrippa. This feeling stems from Agrippa's unique understanding of Jewish customs and all the points of contention, enabling a truly comprehending audience for Paul's comprehensive response to the accusations brought against him by the Jews on that very day. Paul seizes this formal legal proceeding as a significant moment to clearly articulate his position.

Acts 26 2 Context

Acts chapter 26 records Paul's impassioned defense before King Agrippa II, his sister Bernice, and the Roman governor Festus in Caesarea. Paul had been a prisoner for over two years, initially arrested in Jerusalem for alleged desecration of the Temple and sedition. After a hearing before Festus, who found no clear grounds for charges but wished to please the Jews, Paul appealed to Caesar. However, before sending Paul to Rome, Festus presented the case to Agrippa and Bernice, who were visiting dignitaries and known to be well-versed in Jewish law and customs. Festus hoped Agrippa could help clarify the nature of the Jewish accusations against Paul, which seemed incomprehensible to Roman legal standards, before Paul's imperial appeal. Verse 2 marks the commencement of Paul's eloquent and detailed defense, where he frames his opportunity to speak before Agrippa as a particularly providential one due to Agrippa's background.

Acts 26 2 Word analysis

• I think myself happy:

  • "think" (Greek: hēgoumai - ἡγοῦμαι): Implies a reasoned judgment, a conscious estimation, rather than a fleeting emotion. It means "I consider myself," "I reckon myself." It suggests a deliberate mental state, seeing the situation from a specific perspective.
  • "happy" (Greek: makarion - μακάριον): Not mere human pleasure or temporary happiness, but a state of blessedness, inner well-being, or privileged fortune. This word is frequently used in the Beatitudes (e.g., Matt 5:3-11) to describe those truly blessed by God. Paul considers it a divinely fortunate opportunity to defend the Gospel.

• King Agrippa:

  • Refers to Herod Agrippa II, the great-grandson of Herod the Great. He ruled over areas northeast of Judea but, more significantly for Paul's defense, had considerable knowledge and influence over Jewish affairs, including the appointment of the high priest and oversight of the Temple treasury. Paul recognizes him as a knowledgeable and authoritative listener regarding Jewish customs.

• because I shall answer for myself:

  • "answer for myself" (Greek: apologeisthai - ἀπολογεῖσθαι): To make a formal defense, to give a reasoned account or justification. It’s the origin of our word "apology," but in its classical sense meaning a robust defense of one's conduct, beliefs, or policies. Paul isn't merely excusing himself but presenting a logical, scripturally-based explanation of his faith.

• this day before thee:

  • "this day": Emphasizes the immediacy and the significance of the present moment, seizing the opportune occasion presented by God.
  • "before thee": Highlights the specific, qualified audience of Agrippa, recognizing his unique expertise.

• touching all the things whereof I am accused of the Jews:

  • "all the things": Implies the comprehensiveness of the charges. Paul recognizes he is being accused on multiple fronts, including blasphemy, defiling the Temple, and stirring up sedition.
  • "accused of the Jews": Clearly identifies his accusers as those who were previously his fellow countrymen, emphasizing the internal conflict within Judaism over the Christian message. This refers to charges made by the high priest and elders (Acts 25:15).

• Words-group by words-group analysis:

  • "I think myself happy, King Agrippa": This opening sets a tone of respectful confidence rather than intimidation. Paul acknowledges Agrippa's authority while simultaneously expressing a unique spiritual state, viewing his predicament not as a curse but as a privileged opportunity for divine purpose.
  • "because I shall answer for myself this day before thee": Paul frames his current legal encounter as a timely and providential opportunity to publicly declare his case, specifically before someone highly qualified to understand its nuances. It conveys a readiness and an eagerness to articulate his truth.
  • "touching all the things whereof I am accused of the Jews": This phrase highlights the comprehensive nature of the charges against Paul and explicitly identifies his Jewish accusers. It signals Paul’s intention to address every aspect of the dispute, particularly in light of Agrippa's expertise in Jewish law and traditions, which made him an ideal recipient of Paul’s defense concerning his continuity with the faith of Israel.

Acts 26 2 Bonus section

Paul's strategic use of Agrippa's known expertise foreshadows the content of his defense. He wouldn't just be refuting specific legal charges but would launch into a comprehensive theological explanation of how his life and message were a fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets, precisely because he knew Agrippa could appreciate the deep Jewish scriptural context. This skillful opening disarms hostility, establishes common ground, and prepares the listener for a message that transcends mere self-exculpation to become a powerful evangelistic appeal. This entire encounter exemplifies how believers, empowered by the Spirit, can speak truthfully and persuasively even when facing the highest authorities and grave accusations (Luke 12:11-12).

Acts 26 2 Commentary

Paul’s opening statement is not a glib expression of superficial happiness but a deeply considered spiritual posture. He finds himself "blessed" (makarios) by this unique opportunity to present his case. His reasoning is profound: Agrippa, unlike Roman officials, possessed a deep, nuanced understanding of Jewish law, customs, and the prophetic tradition (Acts 26:3). This context transformed Paul’s trial into an unprecedented platform for theological discourse, not just a legal defense. Paul’s "happiness" stemmed from the strategic advantage of being able to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of Jewish prophecy, to an audience who could fully grasp the Old Testament foundation. He effectively turned a threat into an evangelical opportunity, demonstrating an unwavering confidence in the truth of his message and the providence of God in difficult circumstances. This serves as an example of seeing divine purpose and opportunity in challenging, even persecutory, situations, and being prepared to offer a reasoned defense of the hope that is within believers (1 Pet 3:15).