Acts 26:28

KJV

Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G1161} Agrippa {G67} said {G5346} unto {G4314} Paul {G3972}, Almost {G1722}{G3641} thou persuadest {G3982} me {G3165} to be {G1096} a Christian {G5546}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Agrippa said to Sha’ul, “In this short time, you’re trying to convince me to become Messianic?”

Berean Standard Bible

Then Agrippa said to Paul, “Can you persuade me in such a short time to become a Christian?”

American Standard Version

And Agrippa said unto Paul, With but little persuasion thou wouldest fain make me a Christian.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 26:28 records King Agrippa II's profound, yet ultimately uncommitted, response to the Apostle Paul's compelling defense of the Christian faith. After hearing Paul recount his conversion, divine commission, and the resurrection of Jesus, Agrippa, a ruler with significant knowledge of Jewish customs and prophecies, openly admits that Paul's arguments have brought him to the very brink of accepting Christianity, highlighting the persuasive power of the Gospel and the critical nature of a decisive response.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within Paul's final recorded defense before Roman authorities in Caesarea, specifically before Governor Festus, King Agrippa II, and Bernice. Following his appeal to Caesar in [Acts 25:11](/acts/25-11 "Paul Appeals to Caesar"), Festus, unsure how to frame the charges against Paul for the emperor, sought Agrippa's expertise. Agrippa, being knowledgeable in Jewish law and customs, was invited to hear Paul's case. Paul's detailed testimony in [Acts 26:1-23](/acts/26-1-23 "Paul's Defense Before Agrippa") systematically recounts his former life as a zealous Pharisee, his dramatic encounter with the resurrected Christ on the Damascus road, and his subsequent divine commission to preach the Gospel to both Jews and Gentiles, focusing on the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah's suffering and resurrection. Agrippa's statement is the climax of this powerful and Spirit-led address, revealing the deep impact of Paul's words.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Agrippa II was the last of the Herodian dynasty, ruling over parts of Galilee and Perea under Roman authority. He and his sister Bernice were well-versed in Jewish affairs, which made Agrippa an ideal listener for Paul's defense, which heavily relied on Jewish prophecy and custom. The setting is a formal Roman judicial proceeding, though Festus's primary aim was to gather information for Caesar, not to conduct a full trial. Paul, as a Roman citizen, had the right to appeal to Caesar, and his imprisonment was a result of Jewish accusations rather than proven Roman law violations. The term "Christian" was still relatively new, likely originating in Antioch ([Acts 11:26](/acts/11-26 "Disciples First Called Christians in Antioch")), and was often used by outsiders, sometimes pejoratively, to identify followers of Christ. Agrippa's use of the term signifies his recognition of the distinct identity of this new movement.

* **Key Themes:** Agrippa's declaration in this verse contributes significantly to several key themes within Acts and the broader New Testament. Firstly, it underscores the **persuasive power of the Gospel message**, demonstrating that even powerful, worldly rulers can be intellectually and emotionally convicted by the truth of Christ, as seen in Paul's ability to articulate his faith with such clarity and conviction that it moved Agrippa. Secondly, it highlights the critical distinction between **intellectual conviction and genuine spiritual transformation**. Agrippa was "almost persuaded," indicating a mind convinced by evidence but a heart not yet fully surrendered, a theme echoed in Jesus' parables about those who hear the word but do not bear fruit ([Luke 8:13](/luke/8-13 "The Parable of the Sower - Rocky Ground")). Finally, the phrase "almost thou persuadest me" serves as a timeless warning about the **danger of procrastination in responding to God's call**. It emphasizes the urgency of a decisive step of faith, as being "almost" saved is, in fact, still being lost, a concept powerfully articulated in [2 Corinthians 6:2](/2_corinthians/6-2 "Now is the Day of Salvation").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Almost (Greek, _en olígo'_):** This phrase, combining G1722 (_en_) meaning "in" or "at" (often implying proximity or state) and G3641 (_olígos_) meaning "puny," "little," or "somewhat," conveys the sense of "in a little" or "in a small degree." When used with "persuadest," it denotes being on the verge, very nearly, or lacking only a small amount to reach a state. It powerfully captures Agrippa's proximity to conversion without fully crossing the threshold.
* **Persuadest (Greek, _peíthō'_):** From G3982, this verb means "to convince (by argument, true or false)," "to pacify or conciliate," or "to assent (to evidence or authority)." In this context, it signifies that Paul's logical and Spirit-filled presentation of the Gospel had a profound convincing effect on Agrippa's intellect and emotions, moving him towards belief through the force of the evidence presented.
* **Christian (Greek, _Christianós'_):** Derived from G5546 (_Christos_, "Christ"), this term literally means "a follower of Christ." It was likely a designation given by outsiders, first appearing in [Acts 11:26](/acts/11-26 "The Disciples Were First Called Christians in Antioch"), to identify those who adhered to Jesus as the Messiah. Agrippa's use of the term here indicates his recognition of the distinct identity and commitment of those who believed in Jesus.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then Agrippa said unto Paul":** This opening clause sets the scene, indicating Agrippa's direct response to Paul's lengthy and impassioned defense. It highlights the king's engagement with Paul's testimony, demonstrating that Paul's words had indeed captured his attention and provoked a personal reaction, rather than just a judicial one.
* **"Almost thou persuadest me":** This is the heart of Agrippa's confession. The word "almost" (Greek: _en olígo_) signifies a state of being on the very precipice of conviction. Paul's logical arguments, personal testimony, and appeal to prophecy had intellectually and emotionally swayed Agrippa to the point of nearly accepting the faith. It reveals a mind convinced by the evidence, yet a will that hesitated to fully commit.
* **"to be a Christian":** This final phrase clarifies the nature of Agrippa's near-conversion. He understood that Paul's message called for a transformation into a "Christian"—a follower of Christ—a distinct identity that required allegiance to Jesus as Lord. His statement acknowledges the clear choice presented to him and the implications of such a decision.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Dramatic Irony**, as the audience knows the ultimate fate of Paul and the spread of Christianity, while Agrippa, despite his proximity to the truth, remains outside the fold. There is also an element of **Understatement** in Agrippa's "almost," which, while seemingly candid, subtly masks a deeper reluctance or fear of commitment. Furthermore, the term "Christian" functions as a form of **Symbolism**, representing not merely a religious affiliation but a radical shift in allegiance and identity, a full surrender to Christ that Agrippa ultimately shied away from. The entire interaction serves as a **Foil** to the unwavering faith of Paul, highlighting the contrast between intellectual assent and genuine spiritual transformation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 26:28 stands as a profound theological statement on the nature of salvation and human response to divine truth. It powerfully illustrates that while the Gospel's message is inherently persuasive and capable of convicting even the most skeptical minds, intellectual assent or emotional stirring alone is insufficient for salvation. True conversion requires a decisive step of faith, a complete surrender to Christ, moving beyond being "almost" to being fully "in." This verse serves as a timeless warning against the peril of procrastination in spiritual matters, emphasizing that proximity to the truth does not equate to possession of it, and that a partial commitment is, in God's eyes, no commitment at all.

* [Proverbs 27:1](/proverbs/27-1 "Do Not Boast About Tomorrow")
* [Luke 13:24](/luke/13-24 "Strive to Enter Through the Narrow Door")
* [Hebrews 3:7-8](/hebrews/3-7-8 "Today, If You Hear His Voice")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Agrippa's poignant declaration, "Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian," serves as a stark and timeless mirror for all who encounter the Gospel. It compels us to examine our own hearts: are we merely intellectually convinced by the logic and historical evidence of Christianity, or have we truly surrendered our lives to Jesus Christ? The danger of being "almost" is that it offers no salvation; it is a state of being eternally lost, despite having come so close. This verse challenges believers to boldly and clearly articulate their faith, trusting in the Holy Spirit's power to convict, and to pray earnestly for those who are on the brink of decision. For those who resonate with Agrippa's "almost," it is an urgent call to cross the threshold, to move from intellectual agreement or emotional stirring to a full, decisive, and life-altering commitment to Jesus, embracing the free gift of salvation offered through Him. The time for decision is always "now."

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be "almost" persuaded to follow Christ more fully, but have not yet taken the decisive step?**
* **How does Agrippa's response challenge my understanding of what it means to truly be a Christian?**
* **Am I effectively communicating the Gospel in a way that is both intellectually compelling and spiritually convicting, as Paul did?**
* **What might have prevented Agrippa from making a full commitment, and what lessons can I draw from his hesitation for my own spiritual journey or for ministering to others?**

### FAQ

**What does "almost" truly mean in Agrippa's statement?**

Answer: The Greek phrase translated "almost" (G1722 _en_ + G3641 _olígos_) literally means "in a little" or "in a small degree." It signifies that Agrippa was on the very brink of being persuaded, lacking only a small step to fully embrace the Christian faith. It implies intellectual conviction and emotional stirring, but not a complete surrender of his will or a decisive commitment. He understood the truth of Paul's message and its implications, but stopped short of fully becoming a follower of Christ.

**Was King Agrippa II saved after this encounter?**

Answer: The biblical text does not explicitly state that Agrippa became a Christian. Following this exchange, Paul was sent to Rome, and Agrippa's subsequent actions, as far as recorded history is concerned, do not indicate a conversion. His statement, "Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian," is often interpreted as a moment of profound conviction that was ultimately left unfulfilled. The narrative in [Acts 26:30-32](/acts/26-30-32 "Agrippa's Verdict on Paul") shows that Agrippa concluded Paul was innocent of any crime worthy of death or imprisonment, but he did not publicly embrace the faith Paul proclaimed.

**What is the significance of the term "Christian" in this verse?**

Answer: The term "Christian" (G5546 _Christianós_) was likely initially used by outsiders, first recorded in [Acts 11:26](/acts/11-26 "The Disciples Were First Called Christians in Antioch"), to identify followers of Christ. Agrippa's use of the term here indicates his recognition that Paul's message called for a distinct identity and allegiance to Jesus as the Messiah. It was not merely a new philosophy or sect of Judaism, but a commitment to Christ that set believers apart. His acknowledgment implies an understanding of the radical nature of becoming a "Christian."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 26:28, while focusing on Agrippa's near-conversion, powerfully points to Christ in several profound ways. Paul's entire defense, which so moved Agrippa, was not about himself, but about the resurrected Jesus Christ. Paul's testimony centered on his dramatic encounter with the risen Lord ([Acts 9:1-19](/acts/9-1-19 "Paul's Conversion on the Road to Damascus")) and his divine commission to proclaim Christ's suffering and resurrection, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies ([Acts 26:22-23](/acts/26-22-23 "Paul Preaches Christ's Suffering and Resurrection")). Agrippa's "almost" underscores the absolute necessity of a full commitment to Christ; there is no middle ground between being lost and being found in Him, as Jesus Himself declared, "He who is not with me is against me" ([Matthew 12:30](/matthew/12-30 "He Who Is Not With Me Is Against Me")). The very term "Christian" points directly to Christ, signifying one who belongs to Him and follows Him. Ultimately, Agrippa's hesitation highlights the truth that salvation is not merely intellectual assent to facts about Jesus, but a personal surrender to Jesus as Lord and Savior, the "Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world" ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John the Baptist Identifies Jesus as the Lamb of God")). The power of Paul's persuasion was the power of Christ's truth, demonstrating that the Gospel remains the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes ([Romans 1:16](/romans/1-16 "The Power of the Gospel")).

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 11:26

And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.

Matthew 10:18

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

James 1:23

For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:

James 1:24

For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.

Acts 26:29

And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.

Ezekiel 33:31

And they come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee [as] my people, and they hear thy words, but they will not do them: for with their mouth they shew much love, [but] their heart goeth after their covetousness.

2 Corinthians 4:2

But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.