Acts 26 3

Acts 26:3 kjv

Especially because I know thee to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.

Acts 26:3 nkjv

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.

Acts 26:3 niv

and especially so because you are well acquainted with all the Jewish customs and controversies. Therefore, I beg you to listen to me patiently.

Acts 26:3 esv

especially because you are familiar with all the customs and controversies of the Jews. Therefore I beg you to listen to me patiently.

Acts 26:3 nlt

for I know you are an expert on all Jewish customs and controversies. Now please listen to me patiently!

Acts 26 verses

Acts 26 3 Meaning

In Acts 26:3, Paul begins his defense before King Agrippa by acknowledging Agrippa's unique position and expertise in Jewish customs and controversial questions. This acknowledgement serves as a diplomatic opening, establishing common ground and respectful address. Paul appeals to Agrippa's profound understanding of Jewish legal and theological traditions, implicitly suggesting that Agrippa is well-suited to comprehend the intricacies of Paul's case, which revolved around Jewish expectations and prophecies regarding the Messiah and resurrection. Therefore, based on this shared knowledge, Paul humbly requests a patient hearing from the king, underscoring the serious and complex nature of the matters he is about to present.

Acts 26 3 Context

Acts 26 details Paul's third and final major defense speech before a Roman official during his imprisonment, this time before King Agrippa II and Bernice in Caesarea. Governor Festus, having inherited Paul's case from Felix, sought King Agrippa's input because he found the charges from the Jewish leaders confusing, involving "questions about their own religion and about a dead man named Jesus who Paul claimed was alive" (Acts 25:19). This public hearing was arranged for Festus to gather enough information to send a formal accusation to Caesar, as Paul had appealed. In this immediate context of Acts 26, Paul is granted permission to speak (v. 1). Before launching into his personal testimony and the core of his Gospel message, Paul addresses King Agrippa directly. Paul recognizes Agrippa's background as a descendant of Herod the Great, but more significantly, his knowledge of Jewish law and practices. This knowledge makes Agrippa a uniquely qualified, and potentially sympathetic, listener to Paul’s defense, which hinges on the fulfillment of Jewish prophecy in Christ and the concept of resurrection, deeply contested among Jewish factions.

Acts 26 3 Word analysis

• especially (Greek: malista - μάλιστα): This adverb highlights Paul's singular focus on Agrippa among all present. It implies a particular relevance or aptness of Agrippa to understand the proceedings. It’s not just polite address but a strategic designation of the king as a critical listener.
• because you are (Greek: gnōstēn se onta - γνωστὴν σε ὄντα or epistēmōna onta - ἐπιστήμονα ὄντα): Different manuscripts use slightly varied terms, but both convey 'knowing' or 'expert.' The more widely accepted epistēmōna refers to a person having skill, understanding, or specialized knowledge. Paul is giving Agrippa credit, recognizing his proficiency not as empty flattery, but as a genuine assessment that serves as a bridge for the ensuing argument. Agrippa was indeed well-acquainted with Jewish affairs due to his heritage and role as a "king of the Jews," even though his rule was under Rome.
• expert (See 'because you are' above): Signifies a deep, well-informed familiarity. This isn't superficial knowledge but an understanding that can distinguish nuances and grasp theological complexities inherent in Paul's case.
• in all customs (Greek: peri pantōn ethnōn - περὶ πάντων ἐθῶν): "Customs" refers to the traditional Jewish practices, laws, rituals, and way of life dictated by the Torah and rabbinic traditions. These were the very issues at the heart of the disputes Paul faced (e.g., circumcision, food laws, Sabbath). Agrippa's knowledge of these meant he could discern whether Paul was truly teaching against them or reinterpreting them through Christ.
• and questions (Greek: kai zētēmatōn - καὶ ζητημάτων): "Questions" refers to the theological and legal controversies, debates, and disputes prevalent within Judaism of that era. This specifically points to discussions about the Messiah, the resurrection, the role of the Law, and the inclusion of Gentiles—all central to Paul’s gospel. Agrippa would have been well aware of these internal Jewish debates, providing a frame for understanding Paul's controversial teachings.
• among the Jews (Greek: tōn Ioudaiōn - τῶν Ἰουδαίων): Specifies the context of these customs and questions. It anchors the subject matter firmly within the realm of Jewish belief and practice, distancing Paul’s teaching from mere Roman or general pagan ideas, and framing it as a continuation or fulfillment of Judaism.
• therefore (Greek: dioper - διόπερ): This conjunction denotes a logical conclusion or consequence. Because Agrippa possessed this crucial knowledge, Paul had a basis for his subsequent request. It signifies that Paul's appeal for a patient hearing is justified by Agrippa's qualification.
• I beg you (Greek: deomai - δέομαι): A polite yet earnest entreaty or request. It expresses dependence on Agrippa's good will and wisdom for a fair hearing.
• to hear me (Greek: akousai mou - ἀκοῦσαί μου): A request for attentive listening to his entire testimony.
• patiently (Greek: makrothymōs - μακροθύμως): From makrothymia, meaning "long-suffering," "forbearance," "patience." It denotes a sustained, enduring quality of listening, without interruption, rash judgment, or a short temper. Paul understood the length and complexity of his defense, requiring Agrippa’s full and steady attention.

Words-Group Analysis:

• "especially because you are an expert in all customs and questions among the Jews": This phrase functions as Paul’s captatio benevolentiae (securing goodwill). It highlights Agrippa's distinct aptitude and creates an expectation that Agrippa, unlike Festus or other Gentile rulers, possesses the necessary background to truly grasp Paul's argument. It establishes common ground and respect, not flattery, but a strategic point to frame the Jewish essence of his case. Paul acknowledges Agrippa's legitimate qualifications as a knowledgeable listener for this particularly Jewish-centric case.
• "therefore I beg you to hear me patiently": This part connects Paul’s opening acknowledgment directly to his immediate need. The acknowledged expertise of Agrippa implies he can follow the detailed theological and historical arguments Paul is about to present, warranting patient and continuous listening rather than summary dismissal. This appeal for patience underscores Paul's conviction that his message, though controversial, would make sense if given a thorough hearing by someone truly versed in the relevant matters.

Acts 26 3 Bonus section

Paul's address here demonstrates a key aspect of biblical witness: to speak truth respectfully and thoughtfully, adapting the presentation to the specific audience without compromising the message (cf. 1 Pet 3:15). Agrippa II was not merely familiar with Jewish ways; he served as a kind of custodian of Jewish law and customs, being involved in the appointment of the high priest. This context adds significant weight to Paul's acknowledgement of his expertise. For Paul, the ultimate judge was God, but gaining a sympathetic hearing from Agrippa had strategic value for the spread of the Gospel, not just for his personal liberation. Paul recognized that his calling involved bearing witness "before kings," and this particular encounter was a direct fulfillment of that divine mandate (Acts 9:15). The "questions among the Jews" also highlights the ongoing internal strife within Judaism between various sects, particularly between Pharisees (who believed in the resurrection) and Sadducees (who did not), laying the groundwork for Paul to strategically position his message within that existing debate, aligning with a key Pharisaic belief—the resurrection of the dead.

Acts 26 3 Commentary

Acts 26:3 is a masterful example of Paul’s apologetic strategy, revealing both his respect for authority and his shrewd rhetorical skill, informed by the Holy Spirit. He doesn't begin with a confrontational defense but by establishing an empathetic connection with his royal listener, King Agrippa. Paul's commendation of Agrippa's expertise in "customs and questions among the Jews" is more than polite diplomacy; it's a foundational step for his argument. He positions Agrippa as uniquely qualified among the Gentile audience (including Festus) to understand the nuances of the Jewish law, the prophecies concerning the Messiah, and the contentious issues like resurrection that formed the core of Paul's indictment and the essence of his Gospel message.

By acknowledging Agrippa’s specialized knowledge, Paul subtly challenges him to engage with the truth on its own terms, using the very framework Agrippa is most familiar with. Paul’s appeal for "patient" hearing signifies that his defense will not be simplistic. He requires sustained attention for complex arguments about the fulfillment of ancient promises and a radical reinterpretation of Israel's hope in the crucified and resurrected Messiah. This patience is critical for moving beyond surface-level misunderstandings to grasp the profound spiritual truths. This verse sets the stage for Paul to present his testimony as a legitimate development within Judaism, rather than an external or subversive ideology, ultimately seeking not just acquittal but Agrippa’s understanding and potential conversion.

Examples:

• Practical usage for Christians: Approaching conversations about faith by finding common ground or acknowledging the other person's perspective/knowledge before sharing the full truth of the Gospel.
• Understanding legal/ethical discussions: Patiently listening and appreciating the complexity of an issue, recognizing that deep knowledge takes time to absorb and assess.