Bible Commentary

For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner. 26. none of these things are hidden from him ] i.e. the history of the life and works of Jesus, … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Acts 26:26”

But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but I speak forth the words of truth and soberness. 25. most noble [ R. V. excellent] Festus ] The same title of respect which is given to Felix (Act 23:26, Act 24:3). As St Chrysostom remarks the Apostle now answers with gentleness, not as … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Acts 26:25”

And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad. 24 32. Interruption by Festus. Appeal to Agrippa. Consultation and decision 24 Festus said with a loud voice ] Probably what had last fallen from Paul seemed to him little better … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Acts 26:24”

That Christ should suffer, [and] that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should show light unto the people, and to the Gentiles. 23. that Christ should suffer ] Rev. Ver. “How that the Christ must suffer,” but giving in the margin on “How that” or “if” or “whether.” The … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Acts 26:23”

Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come: 22. Having therefore obtained help of God [ R. V. the help that is from God.] The “therefore” implies that against such attempts … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Acts 26:22”

For these causes the Jews caught me in the temple, and went about to kill [me.] 21. For these causes ] Lit. “on account of these things” which the R. V. better represents by “for this cause.” the Jews caught me [ R. V. seized me] The word implies an arrest with violence. and went … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Acts 26:21”

But showed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judea, and [then] to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance. 20. but shewed [ R. V. declared] The word signifies the delivery of a message. Saul was henceforth God’s … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Acts 26:20”

Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision: 19. I was not disobedient ] The verb should be more fully translated “I did not become disobedient.” The thought goes back to the “kicking against the pricks,” the opposition of previous times. That was at an end now. Jesus was “Lord,” and … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Acts 26:19”

To open their eyes, [and] to turn [them] from darkness to light, and [from] the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. 18. to open their eyes, and to turn them ] More literally Rev. Ver. “that … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Acts 26:18”

Delivering thee from the people, and [from] the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, 17. delivering thee ] i.e. though they may and will seize upon thee and persecute thee, yet I am with thee and will save thee from their hands. From the first the Apostle knew that in every city persecution was … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Acts 26:17”