The study of the Book of Acts chapters 25 and 26
Dear Ladies and Gentlemen:
I greet you in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It is my sincere Prayer that you are being Blessed even as you read this email.
Today, we study the Book of Acts chapters 25 and 26.
25:6 Regarding the judgment seat, see the note on 18:16, 17.
25:13 King Agrippa, historically identified as Agrippa II, was the son of the Herod of chapter 12, Herod Agrippa I. When Agrippa I died in A.D 44 (12:23), Agrippa II was considered too young to rule over the entire Palestinian kingdom of his father. Thus Cuspius Fadus was appointed procurator over the troublesome province of Judea. Felix and Festus later occupy this same office. By the time of chapter 25 (A.D 59), Agrippa II had become king of Galilee, other northern regions, and part of Perea. King Agrippa had no authority over Festus. Rome often allowed Eastern rulers to use the popular title of king. Each governed his own realm. King Agrippa came to Caesarea merely to salute (greet) the new procurator. A similar situation exists in the Gospels between Herod Antipas and Pilate (Luke 23:6, 7, 12). See also the note on 23:24.
26:10 The word translated voice (Greek psephon) is the word for the pebble used by ancient juries in voting: a black one for conviction, a white one for acquittal. Paul cast his vote against the Christians. This lends some support to the opinion that Paul had been a member of the Sanhedrin or some lesser council.
26:12-18 For the interpretation of the events at Paul's conversion, see the note on 9:7.
26:28 Agrippa confesses that he is close to believing what Paul has proclaimed. But another interpretation is possible. Almost (Greek en oligoi) can be translated "in short time." Understanding Agrippa's words as a question the verse would read: "In a short time are you trying to persuade me to be a Christian?"
26:32 Though Agrippa's comment certainly did not help Paul, it did not have apologetic value for Luke in demonstrating Paul's innocence despite his years in prison.
Yours in Jesus Christ,
Bishop William B. Caractor
