Acts 26:29

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} Paul {G3972} said {G2036}, I would {G302}{G2172} to God {G2316}, that not {G3756} only {G3440} thou {G4571}, but {G235} also {G2532} all {G3956} that hear {G191} me {G3450} this day {G4594}, were {G1096} both {G2532} almost {G1722}{G3641}, and {G2532} altogether {G1722}{G4183} such {G5108} as {G3697}{G2504} I am {G1510}, except {G3924} these {G5130} bonds {G1199}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Sha’ul replied, “Whether it takes a short time or a long time, I wish to God that not only you, but also everyone hearing me today, might become just like me except for these chains!”

Berean Standard Bible

“Short time or long,” Paul replied, “I wish to God that not only you but all who hear me this day may become what I am, except for these chains.”

American Standard Version

And Paul said, I would to God, that whether with little or with much, not thou only, but also all that hear me this day, might become such as I am, except these bonds.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 26:29 encapsulates the Apostle Paul's profound and unwavering evangelistic passion, even while standing in chains before King Agrippa II, Bernice, and Governor Festus. In this pivotal moment, Paul articulates a selfless desire for all his hearers—from the king to the common person—to experience the complete spiritual transformation and freedom in Christ that he himself possesses, with the sole exception of his physical imprisonment. This statement powerfully underscores the supremacy of spiritual liberty over temporal circumstances and the fervent heart of a missionary committed to the full conversion of souls.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the culmination of Paul’s eloquent defense before King Agrippa II in Caesarea. Having been accused by Jewish leaders, Paul was brought before Festus, who, seeking clarity and a formal charge for Emperor Nero, arranged this hearing. Paul seizes the opportunity not merely to defend himself but to proclaim the Gospel. His testimony begins with his Jewish upbringing, recounts his dramatic conversion on the Damascus road, and explains his divine commission to preach to both Jews and Gentiles. The immediate preceding verse, [Acts 26:28](/acts/26-28 "Acts 26:28 - Agrippa's Almost Persuasion"), records King Agrippa's famous interjection, "Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian." Paul's response in [Acts 26:29](/acts/26-29 "Acts 26:29 - Paul's Evangelistic Wish") is not a polite rejoinder but a fervent, Spirit-filled declaration of his ultimate hope and mission, demonstrating that his imprisonment has not diminished his spiritual zeal.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's trial takes place in Caesarea Maritima, the Roman administrative capital of Judea, under Governor Festus, who succeeded Felix. King Agrippa II, a descendant of Herod the Great and ruler over territories north of Galilee, was well-versed in Jewish customs and laws, making him a fitting, albeit skeptical, judge of Paul's claims. Bernice, Agrippa's sister, was also present. Roman legal proceedings often allowed the accused to speak in their own defense, providing Paul this platform. The "bonds" Paul refers to were literal chains, likely connecting him to a Roman guard, a common practice for prisoners awaiting trial. This setting underscores the clash between Roman imperial power and the spiritual authority of the Gospel, and between political expediency and divine truth. Paul's willingness to speak boldly before such dignitaries reflects the early Christian conviction that the Gospel was for all people, regardless of their social standing or political power.
* **Key Themes:** Paul's statement in [Acts 26:29](/acts/26-29 "Acts 26:29 - Paul's Evangelistic Wish") powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Acts and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it highlights **Paul's unwavering evangelistic passion**, demonstrating that his primary concern is the salvation of souls, even above his own freedom. This aligns with his deep commitment to spreading the Good News, as articulated in [Romans 1:16](/romans/1-16 "Romans 1:16 - Paul's Unashamed Gospel"). Secondly, it draws a sharp distinction between **spiritual freedom and physical bondage**. Paul desires for his hearers to share in his spiritual liberation in Christ, not his literal chains, emphasizing that true freedom is an internal state found in Christ, independent of external circumstances. This concept is foundational to his teaching on Christian liberty found in [Galatians 5:1](/galatians/5-1 "Galatians 5:1 - Standing Firm in Christian Liberty"). Thirdly, the contrast between Agrippa's "almost" and Paul's desire for "altogether" underscores the **necessity of wholehearted commitment** to Christ. Partial faith or intellectual curiosity is insufficient; the Gospel demands complete surrender and transformation. Finally, the scene itself testifies to the **transformative power of the Gospel**, capable of convicting even a king and transcending all social and political barriers.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **said (Greek, _épō'_):** This verb (G2036) signifies a direct, authoritative, and often declarative utterance, distinct from casual speaking. In this context, Paul's "said" is not merely a response but a profound declaration of his heart's deepest desire, delivered with conviction and spiritual authority despite his physical constraints. It conveys the weight and intentionality of his prayer-like wish.
* **would to God (Greek, _eúchomai'_):** The verb (G2172) here is a primary verb meaning "to wish" or, more specifically, "to pray to God." It indicates a fervent, earnest desire directed towards God, implying a deep longing and a recognition that such a transformation is ultimately God's work. Paul is not just expressing a personal hope but invoking divine intervention for the spiritual state of his audience.
* **bonds (Greek, _desmón'_):** This noun (G1199) refers to a literal band, ligament, or shackle, specifically the chains of a prisoner. Figuratively, it can also denote an impediment or disability. Paul's use of "except these bonds" creates a poignant contrast between his physical captivity and the spiritual freedom he wishes for others. It highlights that while he endures physical suffering for the Gospel, the spiritual liberation he offers is free from such earthly constraints.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Paul said, I would to God":** This opening establishes Paul's fervent, Spirit-inspired response. His declaration is not a mere human wish but a prayerful aspiration, indicating the divine source and ultimate goal of his evangelistic passion. He appeals to God as the one who can bring about such a profound transformation.
* **"that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day":** Paul's desire is expansive and inclusive. It extends beyond King Agrippa, the immediate interlocutor, to encompass everyone present—Bernice, Festus, and all others in the audience. This demonstrates the universal scope of the Gospel and Paul's relentless commitment to sharing it with all, regardless of their status or background.
* **"were both almost, and altogether such as I am":** This is the core of Paul's wish. He desires that they achieve the same state of spiritual transformation and commitment that he possesses. The phrase "almost, and altogether" directly addresses Agrippa's "almost" persuasion, emphasizing the need for a complete, unreserved surrender to Christ. Paul's "such as I am" refers to his identity as a follower of Christ, spiritually liberated, filled with purpose, and in right relationship with God, not his personal characteristics or accomplishments.
* **"except these bonds":** This crucial caveat draws a sharp distinction between Paul's spiritual condition and his physical circumstances. He wishes for them to share in his spiritual blessings and freedom in Christ, but not in the physical suffering and imprisonment he endures for the sake of the Gospel. This highlights that true freedom is spiritual and available even in the midst of physical confinement.

#### Literary Devices
Paul's statement in [Acts 26:29](/acts/26-29 "Acts 26:29 - Paul's Evangelistic Wish") masterfully employs several literary devices. The most prominent is **Contrast**, specifically between Paul's physical bondage and the spiritual freedom he embodies and desires for others. The phrase "except these bonds" serves as a powerful antithesis, highlighting that his chains are incidental to his true identity and joy in Christ. There is also a subtle **Irony** in the scene: the prisoner is spiritually free, while the powerful rulers are bound by their unbelief or partial commitment. Furthermore, Paul's sweeping wish for "all that hear me this day" can be seen as a form of **Hyperbole**, an exaggeration for emphasis, underscoring the boundless nature of his evangelistic desire and the universal applicability of the Gospel. The entire speech functions as an **Apologia**, a formal defense, yet Paul transforms it into a powerful **Proclamation** of the Gospel, demonstrating his ultimate purpose.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 26:29 stands as a profound theological statement on the nature of Christian conversion and the heart of evangelism. It reveals that true faith demands a complete, "altogether" surrender, contrasting with a mere intellectual "almost." This wholehearted commitment leads to spiritual freedom, a state far superior to any earthly liberty, and one that transcends physical circumstances, including imprisonment. Paul's fervent wish underscores the Christian's calling to share this transformative truth with all people, recognizing that the power to persuade ultimately rests with God, to whom Paul directs his "wish." This passage thus serves as a timeless model for the urgency and comprehensive nature of the Gospel call.

* [Romans 10:1-4](/romans/10-1-4 "Romans 10:1-4 - Paul's Desire for Israel's Salvation")
* [2 Corinthians 3:17](/2_corinthians/3-17 "2 Corinthians 3:17 - The Spirit and Freedom")
* [Philippians 1:12-14](/philippians/1-12-14 "Philippians 1:12-14 - Paul's Imprisonment Advancing the Gospel")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's declaration in Acts 26:29 is a powerful mirror for contemporary believers, challenging us to examine the depth of our own evangelistic passion and the authenticity of our faith. Do we truly desire for others, regardless of their station or current beliefs, to experience the complete, liberating transformation found in Christ? Paul's willingness to pray for the spiritual freedom of those who held him captive, while explicitly excluding his physical chains, compels us to prioritize eternal realities over temporal comforts or grievances. This verse calls us to cultivate a selfless, Christ-like love that yearns for the full salvation of every individual, recognizing that true liberty is found not in the absence of external trials, but in the presence of Christ within. It encourages us to be bold witnesses, unashamed of the Gospel, and unwavering in our hope for complete surrender from those who hear.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Paul's "I would to God" challenge my own prayer life regarding the salvation of others?**
* **In what ways might I be content with an "almost" faith, either in myself or in others, rather than striving for "altogether" commitment?**
* **What "bonds" (physical, emotional, societal) might I be allowing to hinder my desire to share the Gospel or my experience of true spiritual freedom?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater passion for the spiritual freedom of others, even those who may be hostile or indifferent to my faith?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of King Agrippa's "almost" persuasion in Acts 26:28?**

Answer: King Agrippa's statement, "Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian," (found in [Acts 26:28](/acts/26-28 "Acts 26:28 - Agrippa's Almost Persuasion")) is highly significant because it reveals the powerful impact of Paul's testimony, even on a skeptical ruler. It signifies that Paul's logical defense, combined with his personal narrative of conversion and divine commission, deeply resonated with Agrippa, bringing him to the very brink of accepting the Christian faith. However, the word "almost" is crucial, indicating that Agrippa stopped short of full commitment, perhaps due to political considerations, personal comfort, or a lack of complete conviction. This highlights the human tendency to hesitate at the threshold of faith, and it sets the stage for Paul's fervent response in [Acts 26:29](/acts/26-29 "Acts 26:29 - Paul's Evangelistic Wish"), where he expresses a desire for "altogether" conversion.

**Why does Paul add "except these bonds" to his wish for others?**

Answer: Paul's addition of "except these bonds" (from [Acts 26:29](/acts/26-29 "Acts 26:29 - Paul's Evangelistic Wish")) is a poignant and critical distinction. It underscores that while he desires for Agrippa and all present to experience the profound spiritual freedom, joy, and purpose he finds in Christ, he does not wish for them to endure the physical suffering, imprisonment, and persecution that he is currently experiencing for the sake of the Gospel. This phrase highlights the radical difference between the internal, spiritual liberation that Christ offers and the external, often challenging, circumstances that may accompany a life of faith. It emphasizes that Paul's true identity and blessedness are found in his relationship with God, not in his physical state. His focus is entirely on their spiritual well-being, not on sharing his earthly trials.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 26:29, while spoken by Paul, finds its ultimate fulfillment and meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Paul's fervent desire for "all that hear me this day" to be "altogether such as I am" points directly to the transformative power of union with Christ. The "such as I am" refers to Paul's identity as one who has died with Christ to sin and risen with Him to new life, a spiritual reality made possible by Christ's atoning sacrifice and resurrection ([Romans 6:3-4](/romans/6-3-4 "Romans 6:3-4 - Baptized into Christ's Death and Resurrection")). The spiritual freedom Paul embodies, contrasted with his physical "bonds," is the very liberty Christ secured for humanity through His own ultimate "bonds" on the cross. Jesus, the true Lamb of God, was bound, scourged, and crucified to release us from the bondage of sin and death ([John 8:36](/john/8-36 "John 8:36 - The Son Sets You Free")). Paul's wish for others to be "altogether" persuaded and transformed is a reflection of Christ's own mission to seek and save the lost ([Luke 19:10](/luke/19-10 "Luke 19:10 - Jesus Came to Seek and Save the Lost")) and to bring all who believe into the glorious liberty of the children of God ([Romans 8:21](/romans/8-21 "Romans 8:21 - Glorious Liberty of the Children of God")). Thus, Paul's evangelistic heart in this verse is a direct outflow of the Gospel of Christ, inviting all to partake in the spiritual freedom purchased by the Savior.

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

Ephesians 6:20

For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

Colossians 1:28

Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:

Romans 10:1

¶ Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.

Acts 21:33

Then the chief captain came near, and took him, and commanded [him] to be bound with two chains; and demanded who he was, and what he had done.

Exodus 16:3

And the children of Israel said unto them, Would to God we had died by the hand of the LORD in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the flesh pots, [and] when we did eat bread to the full; for ye have brought us forth into this wilderness, to kill this whole assembly with hunger.

Luke 19:41

¶ And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it,

Luke 19:42

Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things [which belong] unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes.