II. Paul's Imprisonment in Caesarea (continued) (24:1-26:32)
H. Paul's defense before Agrippa (continued) (26:1-29)
4. His interview with Jesus, (26:12-18)
v.12,13 This is the third account of Paul's conversion. Some new details are introduced and we will mention them as they appear. 1) It was midday, 2) the light was brighter than the sun, and 3) the light enveloped Paul and those around him.
v. 14 4) The whole company fell to earth, 5) Jesus spoke in the Hebrew language and 6) Jesus said," It is hard for thee to kick against the goad." What does this mean?
v.15 Jesus identifies himself to Paul. The Greek word rendered "persecute" means to follow after or pester.
v.16 7) A fuller account of what Jesus said to Paul. Paul was to become a minister and a witness for Jesus, relating the manner in which he had seen Jesus as well as other things that would be revealed to him.
v.17,18 Jesus promises to deliver Paul from his enemies, both Jew and Gentile. Paul's message would enlighten those he taught. Compare: darkness to light, Satan to God. A promise: remission of sins and eternal inheritance.
5. Why he was now in bonds, (vv. 19-23)
v.19,20 Paul directs this statement directly to Agrippa. The heavenly vision called for obedience. Paul quickly sketches the places and people he had visited on his preaching journeys. What are works worthy of repentance? Mt. 3:8.
v.21 Paul had been arrested because he was preaching the gospel, but especially because he preached to the Gentiles.
v.22 Help from God had kept Paul alive. Paul had preached to people of all ages and stations in life. He preached what Moses and the prophets said would come to pass.
v.23 The Messiah was to suffer and having suffered would become the first fruits of the resurrection, Rom. 6:9.
6. An interruption, and the conclusion, (vv.24-29)
v.24 Festus interrupts and accuses Paul of raving. Much learning- means that what Paul was saying was beyond Festus comprehension. ( see McGarvey pp. 255-256)
v.25 Paul denies being mad and instead claims to have spoken the truth in all soberness or self-control.
v.26 Paul knew that Agrippa understood what he was preaching. Nothing concerning Christ was a secret to the Jews including the life of Paul.
v.27 Paul now puts the burden on Agrippa, obviously this is a rhetorical question. Agrippa must reject the prophets or believe Paul. Of course he could save face with the assembly by rejecting Paul's interpretation of the prophets.
v.28 Agrippa admits that a little persuasion would convert him to Christianity. Agrippa had many hindrances to keep him from becoming a Christian. Such as? Festus was ignorant but Agrippa was indifferent.
v.29 Paul would be willing to give little or much persuasion, whatever it would take to convert Agrippa and the entire assembly. Paul would have all men be as him, a practicing Christian, except he would not wish persecution on any.
I. The immediate result of the speech, (vv. 30-32)
v.30,31 The king rose up, which in effect dismissed the assembly. In private, the king and his companions admitted that Paul was innocent of any wrongdoing.
v.32 Agrippa admits that Paul deserves liberty, but because of his appeal to Caesar he must continue in bonds to Rome. Paul is assured a safe journey to Rome. What does Festus write in his letter to Caesar? See 28:16,30,31.
III. Paul's Voyage to Rome (27:1-28:16)
A. From Caesarea to Fair Havens, (vv. 1-8)
v.1 Luke and Aristarchus will accompany Paul to Rome. He is sent along with other prisoners under the command of a centurion.
v.2 Adramyttium was a seaport of Mysia and the ship was probably homeward bound from Caesarea,
v.3 When the ship stopped at Sidon, Paul was permitted to leave the ship and visit friends. "refresh himself" could include medical attention or obtaining clothing or other personal items.
v.4 Because of the winds coming from the northwest, the ship used Cyprus to block off these winds.
v.5 See map for: Cilicia and Pamphylia, as well as Myra of Lycia.
v.6 See Boles p. 414 for a description of an Alexandrine sailing ship. In later verses we will see that this ship was carrying a cargo of wheat (38) and 276 passengers (37).
v.7 See map for Cnidus. They used the island of Crete for protection from the ill wind. Locate 8alome.
v.8 Fair Havens is on the southern coast of Crete.