Acts·Chapter 26

How to Apply

Take a moment this week to reflect on something you feel strongly about—maybe it’s a belief or an opinion. Ask yourself: How open am I to the possibility that I might be wrong? Consider talking to someone with a different perspective. You could even write down your thoughts and feelings about this topic, and see if there’s a way to approach it with new understanding. This practice can help you grow and open your heart to new insights, just like Paul did.

Chapter Context

In this chapter, we find ourselves in a courtroom setting where Paul is on trial. Before this moment, he was sharing his incredible transformation story—how he went from being a fierce enemy of Jesus to His most passionate follower. This line about being convinced of opposing Jesus comes right after he explains his past actions and before he reveals his miraculous encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. This moment is crucial because it highlights the dramatic shift in Paul’s life. It sets the stage for understanding the depth of his change and why he is now so fervent in spreading the message of Jesus.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• i - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• myself - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• convinced - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• ought - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• do - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• many - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• things - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• opposing - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• name - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• jesus - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What beliefs do you hold that you might need to reconsider, just like Paul did when he realized he was opposing something true?

Related Verses

• Acts 9:1-5 - This is the story of Paul's encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, where he realizes he was wrong.
• John 14:6 - Jesus said He is the way, the truth, and the life, which ties back to the idea of discovering true beliefs.
• Isaiah 53:3 - Written 700 years before this moment, it describes a suffering servant, hinting at the challenges Jesus would face, which Paul initially opposed.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Acts 26:9. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Defense of the faith, Personal testimony, Transformation, Hope in resurrection, Call to repentance, Jew-Gentile mission, Divine appointment

Key Verses

Acts 26:18, Acts 26:20, Acts 26:13-15, Acts 26:9-11, Acts 26:2-3

Historical Context

Acts 26 is set within the broader narrative of Paul's trials as he seeks to defend himself against Jewish accusations while simultaneously sharing the gospel with prominent leaders. This chapter highlights the political and religious tensions of the time, as Paul navigates his role as a Christian apostle in a largely hostile environment. The chapter follows earlier accounts of Paul's imprisonment and his appeal to Caesar, emphasizing the importance of his Roman citizenship in the unfolding events. Agrippa's understanding of Jewish law and customs provides Paul with an audience that is uniquely positioned to grasp the weight of his argument about Jesus as the fulfillment of Jewish prophecy.