Acts 26:28
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 26:28
28 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.
Chapter Context
Acts 26 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of holiness, sacrifice, love. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Chronicles Christianity's spread across the Roman Empire despite official and unofficial opposition.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-32: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Acts and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Acts 26:28
28 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.
Analysis
Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian (ἐν ὀλίγῳ με πείθεις Χριστιανὸν ποιῆσαι)—The Greek phrase en oligō ('in a little') is ambiguous: 'almost,' 'in short order,' or even ironically, 'with little effort.' The verb peithō means 'to persuade, convince'—Paul's defense had penetrated Agrippa's intellect, if not his will. Christian (Χριστιανόν) appears only three times in Scripture (Acts 11:26, 26:28, 1 Peter 4:16)—originally a term of mockery meaning 'partisan of Christ,' here acknowledged by a king.
Agrippa's response is one of history's most tragic 'almosts'—like Felix trembling but dismissing Paul (24:25), he stands at the threshold of faith but will not cross. Poieō ('to make, do') reveals the issue: he recognizes becoming Christian as a deliberate act, a categorical break with his incestuous relationship with Bernice, his political ambitions, his Herodian heritage. Paul's testimony—Damascus road encounter, prophetic fulfillment, resurrection of Christ—logically compelled assent, but the cost was too high. Almost persuaded is eternally lost.
Historical Context
This exchange occurred around AD 59-60 in Caesarea. Agrippa II was educated in Rome, deeply versed in Jewish theology (v. 3), and understood messianic prophecy. His great-grandfather Herod the Great murdered Bethlehem's infants; his great-uncle Antipas beheaded John the Baptist and mocked Jesus; his father Agrippa I killed James and imprisoned Peter. Now this Agrippa hears the gospel clearly articulated—and refuses it. Within a decade, he would side with Rome against Jerusalem (AD 66-70), betraying his own people.
Reflection
- What intellectual or lifestyle barriers keep you 'almost persuaded' but prevent full surrender to Christ?
- How does Agrippa's tragedy warn against the danger of admiring Christianity intellectually while refusing it personally?
Cross-References
- References Christ: Acts 11:26
- Parallel theme: Matthew 10:18