Acts 25:22

KJV

Then Agrippa said unto Festus, I would also hear the man myself. To morrow, said he, thou shalt hear him.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G1161} Agrippa {G67} said {G5346} unto {G4314} Festus {G5347}, I would {G1014} also {G2532} hear {G191} the man {G444} myself {G846}. To morrow {G839},{G1161} said {G5346} he, thou shalt hear {G191} him {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Agrippa said to Festus, “I myself have been wanting to hear the man.” “Tomorrow,” he replied, “You will hear him.”

Berean Standard Bible

Then Agrippa said to Festus, “I would like to hear this man myself.” “Tomorrow you will hear him,” Festus declared.

American Standard Version

And Agrippa said unto Festus, I also could wish to hear the man myself. To-morrow, saith he, thou shalt hear him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 25:22 marks a pivotal moment in the Apostle Paul's extended imprisonment in Caesarea, as King Agrippa II expresses a personal desire to hear Paul's case for himself. This seemingly casual curiosity sets the stage for Paul's most comprehensive defense and powerful proclamation of the Gospel before influential Roman and Jewish authorities, demonstrating God's sovereign orchestration of events to advance His kingdom even amidst legal entanglements and political maneuvering.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows Festus's detailed explanation of Paul's situation to King Agrippa II and Bernice, as recorded in [Acts 25:13-21](/acts/25-13-21 "Acts 25:13-21 - Festus Explains Paul's Case to Agrippa"). Festus, the new Roman procurator of Judea, inherited Paul's case from Felix and found himself in a difficult position: he had a prisoner whom Jewish leaders vehemently accused of serious crimes, yet he could find no capital offense under Roman law. Paul's appeal to Caesar, a strategic move to escape the Jewish plot and reach Rome, further complicated Festus's task, as he needed to send Paul to Rome with a clear charge. Agrippa, being a Jewish ruler and well-versed in Jewish customs and the nuances of the Law, was the ideal consultant for Festus to help formulate the charges for Caesar. Agrippa's statement in [Acts 25:22](/acts/25-22 "Acts 25:22 - Agrippa's Desire to Hear Paul") is a direct response to Festus's summary, indicating his personal interest in the unique and complex nature of Paul's case.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Agrippa II, along with his sister Bernice, was visiting Festus in Caesarea, a common practice for client kings to visit Roman governors. Agrippa was the last of the Herodian dynasty, appointed by Rome as king over territories north of Galilee and given oversight of the Jerusalem Temple and the right to appoint the high priest. His deep familiarity with Jewish religious matters, sects (like the Pharisees and Sadducees), and the Law made him uniquely qualified to understand the accusations against Paul, which were primarily religious in nature. Festus, as a Roman procurator, was concerned with Roman law and order, not Jewish theological disputes. He likely hoped Agrippa could provide clarity on the Jewish accusations, allowing him to draft a suitable report for Emperor Nero. The Roman legal system, though often corrupt, still required some semblance of due process, and Festus was keen to avoid sending a prisoner to Caesar without a clear indictment.
* **Key Themes:** [Acts 25:22](/acts/25-22 "Acts 25:22 - Agrippa's Desire to Hear Paul") powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Acts. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Providence**, demonstrating how God orchestrates seemingly coincidental events—a king's visit and curiosity—to create unparalleled opportunities for the Gospel to be proclaimed. This aligns with God's prophetic declaration regarding Paul's mission to bear His name before "Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel" in [Acts 9:15](/acts/9-15 "Acts 9:15 - Paul's Divine Commission"). Secondly, it underscores the theme of **Opportunity for Witness**, as Paul's imprisonment, far from hindering the Gospel, becomes a platform for its advancement, even before the highest echelons of power. Finally, the verse subtly reflects the **Clash of Jurisdictions and Worldviews**—the Roman legal system's struggle to comprehend deeply rooted Jewish religious controversies, which Paul's case epitomized, ultimately leading to a higher court.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **boúlomai (Greek, _boúlomai'_):** Translated as "I would" in "I would also hear the man myself," this verb signifies a strong personal inclination, a deliberate choice, or a willingness. It's not merely a polite request but expresses Agrippa's genuine desire and intent to hear Paul directly. This suggests more than just a formal legal consultation; it points to a personal curiosity or interest in Paul's unique case and perhaps the Christian message itself.
* **akoúō (Greek, _akoúō'_):** Meaning "to hear," this verb carries various senses, from simply perceiving sound to understanding and giving heed. In this context, Agrippa's desire to "hear" Paul implies an intention to listen attentively and comprehend Paul's defense and message, rather than just the accusations leveled against him. It sets the stage for a significant discourse, where Paul will have the opportunity to present his full testimony.
* **ánthrōpos (Greek, _ánthrōpos'_):** Translated as "the man," this term refers to a human being. In Agrippa's statement, "the man" refers to Paul. The use of this general term, rather than Paul's name, might reflect a certain detachment or formality, viewing Paul as a subject of legal inquiry. However, combined with "myself," it emphasizes Agrippa's desire for a direct, personal encounter with Paul, the individual, to form his own judgment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then Agrippa said unto Festus":** This opening clause establishes the speaker and the recipient, indicating a direct response within the ongoing dialogue between the two Roman officials. The word "Then" (G1161, _dé_) serves as a continuative particle, linking Agrippa's statement directly to Festus's preceding explanation of Paul's case.
* **"I would also hear the man myself.":** This is the core of Agrippa's request. "I would" (G1014, _boúlomai_) conveys Agrippa's personal desire or willingness. The inclusion of "also" (G2532, _kaí_) suggests that in addition to hearing Festus's summary and the Jewish accusations, Agrippa wished to hear Paul's own account. The emphatic "myself" (G846, _autós_) underscores his personal interest and desire for a direct, unmediated hearing from Paul, the "man" (G444, _ánthrōpos_) in question. This clause sets the immediate dramatic tension and anticipation.
* **"To morrow, said he, thou shalt hear him.":** This is Festus's immediate and affirmative response to Agrippa's request. "To morrow" (G839, _aúrion_) indicates the prompt scheduling of the hearing, highlighting Festus's eagerness to utilize Agrippa's expertise to resolve his dilemma regarding Paul. The use of "said he" (G5346, _phēmí_) confirms Festus as the speaker, and "thou shalt hear him" (G191, _akoúō_ with the future tense) confirms the arrangement, promising Agrippa the direct audience he requested.

#### Literary Devices
The passage primarily employs **Dialogue** to advance the narrative, revealing character motivations and setting the stage for future events. Agrippa's direct request, "I would also hear the man myself," is a pivotal line, showcasing his **Curiosity** and personal interest, which serves as a narrative hook. There is an element of **Foreshadowing**, as this seemingly simple request leads to Paul's extensive and impactful defense before Agrippa, Bernice, and other dignitaries, fulfilling divine prophecy. The situation also presents a subtle **Dramatic Irony**: Agrippa, a powerful king, expresses a desire to hear a prisoner, unaware that this prisoner is an apostle chosen by God to bear His name before kings, and that this hearing is part of God's larger, unstoppable plan. The **Conciseness** of the exchange ("To morrow, said he, thou shalt hear him") highlights the immediate and decisive nature of the arrangement, building anticipation for the next day's events.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 25:22 profoundly illustrates God's sovereign hand in human affairs, demonstrating how He uses the curiosity and political machinations of earthly rulers to advance His divine purposes. Paul's imprisonment, far from being a setback, becomes a strategic opportunity for the Gospel to penetrate the highest echelons of power, fulfilling Christ's prophetic words that His followers would be brought before kings and governors for His name's sake. This verse underscores the biblical truth that God's plan cannot be thwarted by human opposition or legal obstacles; instead, He masterfully orchestrates circumstances to create platforms for His truth to be proclaimed, even in the most unlikely settings. It reminds believers that every circumstance, whether favorable or challenging, can be a divinely appointed opportunity for witness.

* [Acts 9:15](/acts/9-15 "Acts 9:15 - Paul's Commission to Kings")
* [Matthew 10:18](/matthew/10-18 "Matthew 10:18 - Disciples Before Governors and Kings")
* [1 Peter 3:15](/1_peter/3-15 "1 Peter 3:15 - Be Ready to Give an Answer")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 25:22 serves as a powerful reminder that God is actively at work in every situation, even those that appear to be setbacks or legal quagmires. Just as He used Agrippa's curiosity to create a platform for Paul's witness, God can use our daily circumstances—our workplaces, our neighborhoods, our challenges—as unique opportunities to share the hope of the Gospel. This verse encourages us to cultivate a posture of readiness and faithfulness, trusting that God will open doors for us to speak His truth, even when we feel imprisoned or constrained by life's difficulties. Our role is to be prepared to articulate our faith with clarity and conviction, relying on the Holy Spirit to empower our words and transform hearts. We are called to see beyond the immediate circumstances and recognize the divine hand orchestrating events for His glory and the spread of His kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Agrippa's curiosity in this verse challenge or affirm your understanding of how God opens doors for witness?**
* **In what "imprisonments" or challenging circumstances in your life might God be preparing a unique platform for your testimony?**
* **What steps can you take to be more "ready to give an answer" for the hope that is within you, as Paul was before Agrippa?**
* **How does trusting in God's divine providence, as seen in this passage, impact your approach to evangelism and sharing your faith?**

### FAQ

**Why did King Agrippa II want to hear Paul himself?**

Answer: King Agrippa II, being a Jewish ruler and an expert in Jewish customs and the Law, was uniquely positioned to understand the complexities of the accusations against Paul, which were primarily religious in nature. Festus, the Roman procurator, was unfamiliar with these Jewish disputes and sought Agrippa's counsel to formulate a clear charge for Paul's appeal to Caesar. Agrippa's statement, "I would also hear the man myself," suggests a blend of genuine curiosity, a desire for clarity on the theological issues, and perhaps a fascination with Paul's reputation as a controversial figure. This personal interest was providentially used by God to bring Paul's testimony before a king, fulfilling the Lord's prophecy in [Acts 9:15](/acts/9-15 "Acts 9:15 - Paul's Commission to Kings").

**Who was Festus, and what was his role in Paul's trial?**

Answer: Porcius Festus was the Roman procurator of Judea, succeeding Felix. He inherited Paul's case upon his arrival in Caesarea. His primary role was to maintain Roman law and order and administer justice. Festus found himself in a difficult position because the Jewish leaders vehemently accused Paul, but Festus could find no clear capital crime under Roman law. He wanted to appease the Jews while also upholding Roman justice. Paul's appeal to Caesar, as recorded in [Acts 25:11-12](/acts/25-11-12 "Acts 25:11-12 - Paul Appeals to Caesar"), complicated Festus's task, as he needed to send Paul to Rome with a formal charge, which he was struggling to articulate. His consultation with Agrippa in [Acts 25:22](/acts/25-22 "Acts 25:22 - Agrippa's Desire to Hear Paul") was an attempt to gain insight to properly frame the charges for the emperor.

**Did Agrippa's desire to hear Paul have any spiritual significance?**

Answer: Yes, Agrippa's desire had profound spiritual significance. It was a direct fulfillment of the Lord's words to Ananias concerning Paul in [Acts 9:15](/acts/9-15 "Acts 9:15 - Paul's Divine Commission"), where God declared that Paul was a "chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel." Agrippa, as a king, represented one of the very audiences God intended Paul to reach. This seemingly mundane legal curiosity was part of God's sovereign plan to ensure that the Gospel message was proclaimed to the highest authorities, demonstrating that no human power or legal system could hinder the advance of God's kingdom.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 25:22, though focusing on Paul's human trial, ultimately points to the greater narrative of Christ's redemptive work and the ongoing expansion of His kingdom. Paul's willingness to stand before kings and governors, and his unwavering commitment to proclaim the resurrected Christ, mirrors the very mission and suffering of Jesus Himself. Just as Christ was brought before Pilate and Herod, enduring unjust accusations for the sake of truth and salvation ([Luke 23:1-12](/luke/23-1-12 "Luke 23:1-12 - Jesus Before Pilate and Herod")), so too is Paul, His chosen apostle, called to bear witness before earthly powers. Paul's appeal to Caesar and his subsequent hearing before Agrippa are not merely legal proceedings but divine appointments that demonstrate the unstoppable power of the Gospel. The "man" Agrippa desires to hear is not just Paul, but through Paul, it is the message of the [risen Christ](/1_corinthians/15-3-4 "1 Corinthians 15:3-4 - The Gospel of Christ's Death and Resurrection") that is put on display. Paul's trials, like those of Christ, serve to reveal the truth and expose the spiritual blindness of the world, while simultaneously advancing the cause of the Kingdom that is not of this world ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom Not of This World")). Ultimately, every opportunity for witness, whether before a king or a commoner, is a testament to the [reigning Lordship of Jesus Christ](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Christ's Exaltation and Lordship") and the power of His Spirit to transform hearts and nations.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 9:15

But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:

Matthew 10:18

And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles.

Luke 21:12

But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute [you], delivering [you] up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name's sake.

Isaiah 52:15

So shall he sprinkle many nations; the kings shall shut their mouths at him: for [that] which had not been told them shall they see; and [that] which they had not heard shall they consider.