Acts 26:3

KJV

Especially [because I know] thee to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.

KJV (with Strong's)

Especially {G3122} because I know {G1492} thee {G4571} to be {G5607} expert {G1109}{G5037} in all {G3956} customs {G1485} and {G2532} questions {G2213} which are among {G2596} the Jews {G2453}: wherefore {G1352} I beseech {G1189} thee {G4675} to hear {G191} me {G3450} patiently {G3116}.

Complete Jewish Bible

because you are so well informed about all the Jewish customs and controversies. Therefore, I beg you to listen to me patiently.

Berean Standard Bible

especially since you are acquainted with all the Jewish customs and controversies. I beg you, therefore, to listen to me patiently.

American Standard Version

especially because thou art expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In Acts 26:3, the Apostle Paul initiates his defense before King Agrippa II and Governor Festus, strategically appealing to Agrippa's profound expertise in Jewish customs and theological debates. Paul's opening is a masterclass in respectful rhetoric, designed to secure a patient and understanding hearing for his complex testimony, which centers on his conversion and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in Jesus Christ.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the immediate opening of Paul's final and most comprehensive defense recorded in the book of Acts. Having been held prisoner for two years under Governor Felix and now under Festus, Paul is granted an audience with King Agrippa II and Bernice, who have come to Caesarea. Festus, unfamiliar with Jewish legal and religious intricacies, presents Paul's case to Agrippa, hoping for clarification. Paul's address in [Acts 26](/acts/26 "Acts 26 - Paul's Defense Before Agrippa") is a culmination of previous defenses, notably before the [Sanhedrin in Acts 22](/acts/22 "Acts 22 - Paul's Defense Before the Sanhedrin") and [Governor Felix in Acts 24](/acts/24 "Acts 24 - Paul's Defense Before Felix"), but here, he tailors his argument specifically for Agrippa's unique background, setting the stage for a detailed recounting of his life, conversion, and mission.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Agrippa II was the last of the Herodian dynasty, ruling as a Roman client king over territories northeast of Galilee. Crucially, he was of Jewish descent and, unlike the Roman Governor Festus, was deeply familiar with Jewish law, customs, and the various sects and theological "questions" (disputes) prevalent among the Jewish people, such as the Sadducees' denial of the resurrection versus the Pharisees' belief in it (cf. [Acts 23:6-9](/acts/23-6-9 "Acts 23:6-9 - Paul's Division of the Sanhedrin")). Paul's acknowledgment of Agrippa's expertise was not mere flattery but a recognition of his unique position as a Jewish ruler who could genuinely grasp the nuances of Paul's argument, which was rooted in the fulfillment of Jewish prophecy and the Law. This context highlights the cultural chasm between Roman and Jewish legal systems and beliefs, making Agrippa's role as an informed listener invaluable.
* **Key Themes:** Acts 26:3 introduces several significant themes that permeate Paul's defense and the broader narrative of Acts. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **strategic rhetoric and respectful engagement**. Paul's opening demonstrates his wisdom in adapting his message to his audience, a principle vital for effective evangelism and communication. Secondly, the verse highlights the **nature of the charges against Paul**, which were not merely criminal but deeply theological, revolving around "customs and questions" central to Jewish identity and messianic expectation. Paul's defense would articulate how his belief in Jesus was not a departure from Judaism but its true fulfillment. Lastly, the plea for **patience in hearing** emphasizes the importance of a fair and thorough hearing for the gospel message, especially when it challenges established norms or beliefs. Paul's request for patience anticipates the depth and potentially controversial nature of his testimony, which would include his dramatic [conversion on the Damascus road](/acts/9-1-19 "Acts 9:1-19 - Saul's Conversion").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **expert (Greek, _gnṓstēs'_):** From _ginōskō_, meaning "to know." This term signifies not just intellectual knowledge but a deep, intimate, and experiential familiarity. Paul is not merely acknowledging Agrippa's academic understanding but his profound, perhaps even personal, acquaintance with the intricacies of Jewish life, law, and religious debates. It implies a recognition of Agrippa's proficiency and discernment in these matters.
* **customs (Greek, _éthos'_):** Derived from _ethō_, meaning "usage prescribed by habit or law." This refers to the established practices, traditions, and legal observances of the Jewish people, including Mosaic Law, oral traditions, and religious rites. Paul's case was often framed by his Jewish accusers as a violation of these customs, making Agrippa's knowledge of them particularly relevant.
* **questions (Greek, _zḗtēma'_):** From _zēteō_, meaning "to search" or "to seek." This word refers to the complex and often contentious theological debates, disputes, or inquiries prevalent among Jewish factions. These were not simple inquiries but deeply divisive issues, such as the resurrection, the nature of the Messiah, and the interpretation of the Law, which formed the very core of the accusations against Paul.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Especially because I know thee to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews":** Paul begins by singling out King Agrippa's unique qualification. He asserts his knowledge of Agrippa's deep familiarity and proficiency ("expert") with the entire spectrum of Jewish life – both its practical observances ("customs") and its intricate, often contentious, theological discussions ("questions"). This statement is a strategic opening, establishing common ground and acknowledging Agrippa's authority and understanding in the very matters that form the basis of Paul's defense. It signals that Paul's argument will be rooted in the Jewish tradition, not an alien philosophy.
* **"wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently":** Following his commendation, Paul transitions to his direct request. The conjunction "wherefore" (Greek, _dio_) indicates a logical consequence: because Agrippa possesses such unique insight, he is the ideal person to give Paul a fair and thorough hearing. The plea "I beseech thee" (Greek, _deomai_) conveys a humble yet earnest request, while "patiently" (Greek, _makrothymōs_) emphasizes the need for an enduring temper and leniency, anticipating that Paul's defense will be lengthy, complex, and potentially challenging to Agrippa's existing perspectives. This request highlights Paul's desire for a full and unbiased consideration of his testimony.

#### Literary Devices
Paul's opening in Acts 26:3 employs several powerful **literary devices**. **Ethos**, or an appeal to credibility, is immediately established by Paul's respectful acknowledgment of Agrippa's expertise, which serves to build rapport and predispose the king to listen favorably. This is not merely flattery but a recognition of shared cultural and religious understanding. The use of **synecdoche** is present in "customs and questions," where these specific elements stand for the entire complex system of Jewish law, tradition, and theological discourse. Furthermore, the verse functions as a **prologue** or **captatio benevolentiae** (a rhetorical device to capture goodwill), setting a tone of respect and earnestness for the extensive defense that follows. Paul's request for "patiently" hearing also foreshadows the depth and potentially controversial nature of his testimony, acting as a subtle **foreshadowing** of the spiritual truths he is about to unveil.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 26:3 underscores the profound theological principle that the gospel, while universally applicable, can and should be presented in a manner that resonates with the specific context and understanding of the audience. Paul's strategic appeal to Agrippa's knowledge of Jewish "customs and questions" demonstrates his commitment to presenting Christ as the fulfillment of Israel's hope, rather than a foreign innovation. This approach aligns with the broader apostolic method of engaging with existing cultural and religious frameworks, seeking points of connection to bridge understanding and reveal the continuity of God's redemptive plan. The verse also implicitly highlights the importance of discerning leadership and the need for those in authority to exercise patience and wisdom in hearing matters of faith, especially when they touch upon deeply held beliefs.

* [1 Corinthians 9:19-23](/1_corinthians/9-19-23 "1 Corinthians 9:19-23 - Paul's Strategy of Becoming All Things to All People")
* [Philippians 4:8](/philippians/4-8 "Philippians 4:8 - Think on These Things")
* [Colossians 4:5-6](/colossians/4-5-6 "Colossians 4:5-6 - Walk in Wisdom Toward Outsiders")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's opening words to King Agrippa in Acts 26:3 offer invaluable lessons for contemporary believers seeking to communicate the gospel effectively and live out their faith in a complex world. His approach models the importance of understanding and respecting one's audience, not as a compromise of truth, but as a strategic means to open doors for truth to be heard. In a world often characterized by polarization and quick judgments, Paul's plea for a "patient" hearing reminds us of the virtue of active listening and the necessity of creating space for thoughtful dialogue, even when opinions diverge. We are called to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves, discerning the unique background of each individual and tailoring our communication to address their specific "customs and questions." This requires humility, empathy, and a genuine desire for understanding, reflecting Christ's own incarnational ministry where He met people where they were.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can I better understand the "customs and questions" of those around me, whether in my family, workplace, or community, to communicate more effectively?**
* **In what ways can I demonstrate respect and seek a "patient hearing" when discussing sensitive or challenging topics, particularly those related to my faith?**
* **What specific biases or preconceived notions might I need to overcome in myself to truly listen to others and present the gospel in a way that is both truthful and winsome?**

### FAQ

**Why was King Agrippa II considered "expert" in Jewish customs and questions?**

Answer: King Agrippa II, though a Roman client king, was a descendant of Herod the Great and, crucially, was of Jewish heritage. He had been raised with an understanding of Jewish law, traditions, and the intricate theological debates ("questions") that were common among the various Jewish sects (like the Pharisees and Sadducees). Unlike the Roman Governor Festus, Agrippa possessed an intimate knowledge of the cultural and religious landscape of Judea, making him uniquely qualified to understand the nuances of Paul's case, which revolved around Jewish prophecies, the Law, and the messianic claims of Jesus. Paul's acknowledgment was not mere flattery but a strategic recognition of Agrippa's informed perspective, essential for a fair hearing of his defense (see [Acts 25:26-27](/acts/25-26-27 "Acts 25:26-27 - Festus Consults Agrippa")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 26:3, while a strategic rhetorical opening by Paul, subtly points to Christ-centered fulfillment through Paul's very mission. Paul's defense, rooted in "customs and questions which are among the Jews," ultimately reveals that Jesus Christ is the culmination and fulfillment of all these Jewish expectations and prophecies. Paul's "expertise" in these matters, which he now attributes to Agrippa, was once his own before his conversion, when he was a zealous Pharisee (cf. [Philippians 3:4-6](/philippians/3-4-6 "Philippians 3:4-6 - Paul's Former Righteousness")). His transformation on the Damascus road (recounted in [Acts 26:12-18](/acts/26-12-18 "Acts 26:12-18 - Paul's Conversion Account")) revealed that the long-awaited Messiah was Jesus, crucified and resurrected. Thus, the "questions" about the resurrection (cf. [Acts 23:6](/acts/23-6 "Acts 23:6 - Paul's Use of the Resurrection Debate")) find their definitive answer in Christ's victory over death, and the "customs" of the Law find their ultimate purpose and fulfillment in His atoning sacrifice and the establishment of the New Covenant (cf. [Romans 10:4](/romans/10-4 "Romans 10:4 - Christ is the End of the Law") and [Hebrews 8:6-13](/hebrews/8-6-13 "Hebrews 8:6-13 - The Superiority of the New Covenant")). Paul's patient plea to Agrippa is, therefore, a pastoral invitation for the king to see that the very heart of Jewish faith finds its glorious completion in Jesus, the promised King and 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

Acts 6:14

For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us.

Acts 26:26

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.

Acts 21:21

And they are informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise [their] children, neither to walk after the customs.

Acts 25:26

Of whom I have no certain thing to write unto my lord. Wherefore I have brought him forth before you, and specially before thee, O king Agrippa, that, after examination had, I might have somewhat to write.

Deuteronomy 17:18

And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book out of [that which is] before the priests the Levites:

Acts 25:19

But had certain questions against him of their own superstition, and of one Jesus, which was dead, whom Paul affirmed to be alive.

Acts 25:20

And because I doubted of such manner of questions, I asked [him] whether he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these matters.